Summerland Trail is one of Mount Rainier's great east-side hikes, climbing from the White River Road toward meadows, creek crossings, and views of Little Tahoma and the mountain's glaciers. In wildflower season it feels generous; later, it becomes a more austere alpine walk toward Panhandle Gap.
The trail is long enough and popular enough to demand planning. Start early, expect limited parking near Fryingpan Creek, and turn around before fatigue or weather makes the descent less enjoyable than the climb.