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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
985 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
19.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6-8.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge to Emerald Ridge Loop is a 11.8mi lightly trafficked trail in Mount Rainier National Park that offers a real sense of adventure due to its sometimes difficult-to-find trail and length. If you’re prepared to do a bit of routefinding, this loop offers a fantastic waterfall, an impressive bridge, and mountain views all to yourself.

Route Description for Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop

If you’re searching for a trail that feels more adventurous and exciting than some of the common picks in Mount Rainier National Park, the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Trail is a perfect pick. Armed with GPS and the willingness to do some routefinding, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with gorgeous views and a trail that you just might have to yourself.

Begin by hiking 2.9 km on the Westside Road to the unmarked Tahoma Creek Trail. You can bike this section to save some time. From the trailhead, begin up the trail for 3.4 km, passing a small waterfall and joining the Wonderland Trail. Note that this trail is unmaintained and subject to washout, so the conditions can be variable.

Continue north through the forest, then through volcanic and subalpine landscapes as you ascend. Emerald Ridge comes into view, a wide, bright green and flowered alpine meadow. This is a gorgeous spot with a unique view of Mount Rainier.

Descend off the ridge on a loose rocky trail, taking care not to slip. You’ll dip back into the forest and then go west on the South Puyallup Trail, descending through the woods for 1.0 km to the Westside Road. Turn south of the road and descend to the Tahoma Creek Trail.

Getting to the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Trailhead

To get to the trailhead for the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop from the Nisqually entrance, drive east on Nisqually Longmire Road for 1.0mi. Turn left onto West Side Road. Follow the road for 3.2mi and park at its end.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    South Puyallup River Camp

  • When to do:

    June-August

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge and Emerald Ridge Loop Elevation Graph

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