Mt. Rainier Hike

At 14, 411 feet, Mt. Rainier is the highest peak in Washington. It is also an inactive volcano, now with a mantle of snowfields, glacier and dense forests. It is a Northwest icon, with over 300 miles of trailes throughout the park. We decided on an approach from the Northwest (closest to where we were staying). Some of the other areas of the park look beautiful as well, and they are on our list of future places to explore. Over ninety percent of Rainier's land is under wilderness protection. In 1997 it was designated a national historic landmark for early examples of “parkitecture” structures. Since the route over the Carbon Glacier was washed out due to flooding, we head up toward Mowich Lake. The trail we hiked led to Lake Eunice, surrounded by summer wildflowers. The rain and fog only enhanced the peaceful atmosphere. Click for more photos.