Glacier Vista Loop via Skyline Trail is a 2.7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Mount Rainier National Park, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is best used from July until October.
birding
hiking
nature trips
walking
views
wild flowers
no dogs
From the Nisqually entranceon Highway 706, 18 miles on Longmire-Paradise Road to the main Paradise Parking area. The trail starts to the west of the Paradise Ranger Station.
Hiked on 7/30 in the AM. Fairly easy and enjoyable hike with spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding ranges (included distant views of Mount Hood and Mount St Helens). The loop trail starts (and ends) paved and transitions to hard-pack dirt about halfway through the hike. Towards the Glacier Vista Lookout there's still a bit of snow (including a small ~50 foot patch you'll have to hike over). There's about 1000 foot of elevation gain - and the climbing starts right away, so be ready for a bit of uphill! The hike can absolutely be done in good hiking/trail shoes.
Overall, I'd argue that this hike gives you the most "bang-for-your-buck" (for an easier hike) at Paradise - lots of wildflowers, spectacular views of Mount Rainier and surrounding ranges, views of waterfalls, and a close up look at the glacier. If you're an inexperienced hiker or short on time, I'd recommend this hike!