Hike to Gobbler's Knob

Entering the Park from the Southwest Entrance, bear left when you approach the forking Westside Rd. This road has been closed a few miles in due to massive rockfall. When you reach the road closure, just park along the side of the road. In Spring and Summer, you should be able to see plenty of other cars about, as the road is now used as a popular trail system for the Western half of the park. The trail is straightforward for the vast majority of your hike.

Follow the road for about 4.5 miles up the abandoned pass until you see a large, obvious car pull off on the left with a bike rack. You'll know you're in the right place if you see the small sign that reads, "Lake George Trail." From here, Lake George is only about a mile and a half. It's a fantastic little primitive site with 5-8 spots and a small Ranger Outpost. On still mornings, the lake is like glass, and offers some incredible reflections. This area comes highly recommended for anybody looking for a peaceful overnight or weekend trip.

Follow the signs along the right side of Lake George that point you towards "Gobblers Knob," which is only about a mile from the lake. Don't let the short distance fool you into thinking it's a walk in the park. From the lake, you can see Gobblers Knob towering thousands of feet above you, and it is just as steep a hike as it looks.

As you approach the summit, you'll catch glimpses of why the abandoned fire lookout is one of my absolute favorite hikes in the country. On the summit, take a breather and let the full majestic beauty of Mt. Rainier wash over you.

Sunset here is magnificent, as is the night-sky. We recommend to pack headlamps and stick around for the night time. We packed in our hammocks and sleeping bags and set up underneath the lookout balcony. While we didn't stay the entire night, many have, and I'm sure sunrise is just as beautiful.

Be careful hiking down at night! The trail is steep and it can be easy to lose your footing.