Wedding-cake white and looming large over her Cascade brethren, Mount Rainier seems to sprout solo from sea level at the western edge of the Cascade Range, stretching her glistening crown nearly three miles into the sky. Her beauty is so … Continued
It’s a hiking fact: the most beautiful hikes are usually the most crowded. This can present a conundrum for hikers who want gorgeous scenery as well as solitude. But you can score both with a little homework and some advance … Continued
You’re not into snow shoeing. Hip-dip snow makes you break out in hives. But you’re still rarin’ to hit the trails at Mount Rainier National Park. Given the amount of snow that’s been dumped on the Mountain this winter, you … Continued
We got started a little late. But the Mountain waited for us to catch up, fluttering her fall frocks in all their rich autumnal glory. Old Iron Knees and I hike Mount Rainier National Park whenever we can, year-round. But … Continued
The Shriner Peak Lookout Trail at Mount Rainier National Park is as unforgettable as it is rigorous. Dubbed “the toughest trail in the park” by park rangers, you’d better be in decent shape before tackling this steep, switchbacking out-and-back trail … Continued
Rating: Strenuous Distance: 6.2 miles, round trip Elevation gain: 2,300 ft. over three miles The Crystal Lakes trail probably isn’t a great choice if you have a heart condition. This is a tough, steep climb. For the stout-hearted and … Continued
The Burroughs Mountain Trail at Mount Rainier’s Sunrise is a two-fer. If you’re on the lookout for dazzling mountain vistas, this is the place. First Burroughs Mountain is 4.8 miles RT, with a 900 foot elevation gain. Second Burroughs Mountain … Continued
Located on the Mountain’s southeast flank out of Ohanapecosh, Silver Falls is one of the best-known waterfalls cobwebbing Mount Rainier National Park. An easy hike through a spectacular old growth and an emerald green conifer cathedral, it’s also a great … Continued
On the lip of Chinook Pass, the Naches Peak Loop trail is one of the most popular hikes at Mount Rainier National Park, and for good reason. This relatively easy 3.5 loop trail has it all: pristine mountain tarns, kaleidoscopic … Continued
Hiking is a great way to explore and enjoy the Great Outdoors. But it’s also a great way to get hurt. Or worse. In fact, I’ve seen boatloads of “hikers” who qualify as “Exhibit A” on how NOT to hike. … Continued