Plummer Peak : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost

Overview

This small peak makes for an excellent day trip/hike while at Mount Rainier. It is a popular outing for all skill levels, and is a refreshing alternative to the crowded trails above Paradise. It is easily accesable from a turnout along HW 706, or can be done via a short hike from Paradise to the trailhead. The hike overall is simple, although it may be strenous for those unaccustomed to steep trails or hiking in general. The last section, may require a small amount of scrambling and easy snow travel, but is still simple, fun and safe. This hike can easily be done in 5 hours or less, and is frequented in novices in tennis shoes and such. I would highly reccomend it for anyone wanting to climb a mountain, get into climbing/scrambling, or who just wants an enjoyable hike with awesome views (Rainier, Adams, Goat Rocks, St. Helens and the rest of the Southern Cascades).

Fred G. Plummer was a Forest Service cartographer. He taught geography in Tacoma Public Schools.

Getting There

After entering the park (the Nisqually entrance is recommended for Plummer), follow HW 706 past Longmire and Paradise to a roadside parking area overlooking Reflection lake. Across the road is the trailhead for the Pinnacle Peak Saddle.

You may also park at Paradise and hike across towards Reflection lake and meet up with the Pinnacle Peak Trail.

Red Tape

A fee must be paid upon entering MT. Rainier National Park.
Although the park does not entirely close during the winter, some of its locations do. During the winter, access is by the Nisqually Entrance in the southwest corner of the park only. Roads may be difficult for driving if not closed too. WInter ascents should be taken only by those experienced with snow travel and snow climbs, preferably with showshoes. Most people should regard Plummer Peak as a Spring/Summer climb.

When To Climb

It can be climbed year round, but is most easily done from late Spring into mid-late fall. The snow will melt off a lot during May and June and will be gone by July. When I did it in mid-July, the only snow was in a snowfield near the summit of Plummer.

Camping

Although this does not have to be an overnight hike, some individuals may chose to camp or stay overnight(see http://www.nps.gov/mora/recreation/wildcamp.htm)
"Backpackers, climbers and anyone else who camps outside of auto campgrounds, must obtain a free Wilderness Camping Permit before camping. Permits are required year-round and are issued in person only after you arrive in the park. The permits may be obtained at the Wilderness Information Centers at Longmire and White River, or at any ranger station during the summer. Winter permits are available at the Longmire Museum."--- NPS website

Mountain Conditions

http://www.nps.gov/mora/trail/tr_cnd.htm
This site has trail conditions for many Mt. Rainier hiking trails. Check the "Pinnacle Peak Trail" in the Paradise section. (This page is not always accurate, it said the trail was 90% snow covered when I went, yet there was little or no snow...)

External Links

A Plummer personal page
This is a personal page with pictures and text regarding a Plummer peak trip in Sept. 2001
A Plummer Peak personal page
Another personal page regarding a trip up Plummer. Photos!
Tatoosh Traverse-Eric's Base Camp
This page provides info on traversing part of the Tatoosh range. With good photos and info, this site provides help to those hoping to complete the traverse or just do Plummer.