Key Takeaways

Carbon River Road Trail is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back trail near Ashford, WA, providing access to other Mt. Rainier National Park trails like the Old Mine Trail and Rain Forest Trail.

The trail follows a former road closed due to damage and features massive ancient trees, potential waterfall views in late winter/early spring, and frequent deer sightings.

A National Park fee is required for parking in the large lot at the trailhead.

Carbon River Road Trail

This hike along the Carbon River Road Trail at Mt. Rainier National Park near Ashford Washington is an easy 2.3-mile out-and-back trail that leads to the Old Mine Trail and beyond.

Carbon River rd used to be open to the public beyond this parking area, but from what I understand, it's now a trail due to road damage back in ~2007. The Carbon River rd trail is used to access various trails along this section of Mt. Rainier National Park like the Rain Forest Trail and Old Mine Trail.

In late Winter and early Spring, you'll likely hear and see waterfalls through the trees - though, I could not find any trails that lead to them. The trail is littered with massive ancient trees, but I forgot to take any decent pictures with any reference alongside them. Regardless, they're definitely worth seeing. Also, plenty of deer to be found along this trail.

Fee
There's a National Park fee for parking, so make sure to pay before you hit the trail.

Parking
Hikers will find a large parking lot near the coordinates provided.