Needed a quick one so decided on my annual trip to Chinook Pass. The construction delays were not bad and what a tremendous improvement they are making to that part of the highway. They will not finish this year but when they are done it will certainly be appreciated. The trail along the east slope of Naches Peak seems to get muddier every year. It was still icy this morning but I can imagine what it was like in the afternoon. This is an easy hike which allows for time to ""smell the roses"". There are always some good photos to take and the fall colors never let you down. A perfectly clear day allowed for the view of Mt. Adams and The Mountain was in full splendor for the last half of the hike. Another great day on the trail.

Naches Peak Loop - Mount Rainier N.P.

Once we arrived close to Crystal ski resort, the weather got really bad; foggy and rainy. From the amount of snowfall this year, the conditions around the mountain are unpredictable. The signs to the trailhead were 'not to be seen'. Luckily, with the information of frequent visitors, they pointed out the area where the Tipsoo Lakes were. But were completely covered with snow. Because of the conditions that day we decided not to risk it and headed down 410 where once you get to 5000' elevation you broke through the wall of fog and into 70 degree weather. There are many campsites along 410 for car camping, and other trailheads to lakes for day hiking. The next day heading home, the conditions were spectacular. Great views of Mt. Rainier. Even the Naches Peak Loop trail could be seen. Overall, a beautiful trip.

A wonderful
trail and a wonderful day. I can only second the report by ranger rick, written two days earlier. The flowers were more than just beginning to show. The snow over the trail is nearly gone, although there are plenty of wet spots remaining. The major exception I take to ranger rick's report has to do with getting through the construction zone. NO PROBLEM. Its only .6 miles of cut up road and gravel. The road is closed Monday through Thusday. On this Saturday it slowed us down, maybe a total of one minute.

wow!what a
day!started the hike 8a.m. friday morning. ND IT could not have been more perfect! although there are still many areas covered by snow, it was not much bother to get over or around the white stuff!saw lots of dear and fresh elk tracks. the bugs were non existant,or at least not a bother. the flowers were just begining to make a showing, mostly lilies,but paint brush and lupine and a host of others are very soon to add to the magic of this easy but beautiful hike! the only problem is the extensive road construction, with many delays and lots of dust!better check before you head thataway!...but we found it worth the hassle! we saw no one else all day!

The trail is all but snow
free and the flowers are out. Plenty of other folks up her, though, as it seems there is still a dirth of snow-free trails. Bugs were a bit of a problem, but not nearly as bad as in many other mountain areas, this year. This continues to be one of my favorite, relatively easy hikes, and wonderful for taking out-of-town guests.