Spray Park

This is a great way to get to Mt. Rainier without battling the horrendous traffic on the interstates by going down Hwy. 18 and then a series of low-traffic back roads. The 14 mile gravel road to Mowich Lake (guidebooks say 17 miles, but the first few miles are actually paved) is in pretty good shape, though dusty.

Even though there is not a manned park entrance here, you still have to stop and pay your $15 at a lockbox station about 4 miles from the lake.

Once you get to Spray Park proper, the views of Mt. Rainier are stunning. Most wildflowers are past their peak, but there are still a lot in bloom. Some of the late-season bloomers here, like Mountain Bog Gentian, are best seen about now.

There are lots of biting bugs about, and there is no shade at all once you reach Spray Park, so plan accordingly. There is good water available at Grant Creek just past Eagle Roost.

I hiked the trail past Spray Park and up to the foot of the glaciers on the mountain, making for about a 11-12 mile round trip. Highly recommended if you have time.