"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."
Skyline Trail in the Mount Rainier National Park is a great day hike. The trail starts out from the stairs to the left of the Paradise Visitor Center, loops past the Nisqually Glacier and ends back at Paradise.
The start of this trail is the same trail you would take to hike to base camp. In summer, the beginning of the trail is full of alpine flower meadows. Not to mention the biting flies this time of year. After the paved path ends, the trail becomes somewhat steep and uneven at times--wear proper footwear and carry a pack with the ten essentials if you plan to do the entire loop.
You'll end up walking right along-side the Nisqually Glacier--which is an amazing sight. But the trail here is generally crowded. Continue on past the look-out point and take the "high trail" instead of the lower shortcut to avoid many hikers. Eventually you'll hit your peak elevation and most of the rest of the hike is downhill--but you'll work hard to get to that point. This hike is rated "difficult" by the park, so inexperienced hikers should probably pass on this one. Weather can change extremely quickly on the mountain, so you need to be prepared for anything. Thick, blinding fog can occur in a matter of minutes--and on this trail, you will lose your way.
We hiked this trail last July (2002) and there was snow covering many parts of the trail. The summer sun made it pretty slick and icy in spots--hiking sticks will help you navigate those areas. And sunscreen is a must. The cool air temperature will fool you, but you'll have one incredible sunburn the next day! We both did...blisters and all!
Before you return back to Paradise, you'll pass through the woods. If you hike on a warm day, the wooded areas offer some shade and cooler air, but most of the trail is not wooded...hence the need for sunscreen.
You'll probably encounter plenty of wildlife...we met a very inquisitive marmot. They are so accustomed to hikers (since some people don't understand that feeding the wildlife is a bad thing) that they will come right up to you. You're also likely to see deer, and some other hikers have said bears wander around too--but we didn't see any.
When you wind up back at Paradise you can walk right past the lodge and continue onto the parking lot...or stop for a beer in their lounge. They have a good selection of microbrews, as well as domestics. And you just can't beat a post-hike beer!
I would highly recommend this trail to any experienced hiker. The views cannot be beat...so long as you are willing to put up with the number of other hikers you will encounter getting to see them.
The hike takes about 5 hours at a normal pace.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions.