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Dege Peak from Sunrise

Difficulty: easy

4 miles

Elevation gain: 1000'

Max elevation: 6950'

Camps: none

First hiked by me: older

This hike requires you to do something unnatural. Start at Sunrise, head north up to Sourdough Ridge, but then turn your back on the stunning summit views and hike away from the mountain. The 360 degree views from Dege Peak are totally worth it though. Craggy volcanic rock formations and panoramic vistas in a condensed, easy-to-access format.

Bonus points if you have the mental fortitude to set your alarm clock for crazy early and arrive at Sunrise before the actual sun has risen. I've done this twice now, and both times it was an experience I'll never forget.

Dege Peak can also be reached via the Dege Peak from Sunrise Point trail to the east.

"Here comes the sun..."

Looking north from Sourdough Ridge

Sunrise hitting the summit of Rainier

View from Dege Peak