If you like big views, this is the hike for you. Unfortunately, you have to endure horrible roads and a terrible trail up to the ridge. After that, the hike is a roller coaster ride up and down seven knolls for a total of six miles with 2,100' of elevation gain.
The only flowers on the trail were Heather and some daisies as you near the cliffs at three miles. There are many mountain Toads on this trail.
The views of Avalanche Valley between Baker and Table Mountain with the Rainbow Glacier and Rainbow Creek in between are stupendous. There are many cliffs with sheer drop offs. The cliffs at mile three merit the rating of a State Park and are difficult to climb. Views of Shuksan are equally good.
There are a couple of tarns with water you can filter, and a few snowfields near the cliff that you can easily get around.
My buddy and I met only six hikers on the trail. We had the place to ourselves for 75% of our hike, but we were the first to arrive at 7:30AM.
The temperature was a pleasant 64 degrees F. until the clouds gave way to sunshine.
Note: It is 8/10ths of a mile from the TH to the ridge and 3.0 miles to the cliffs. Trekking poles are recommended.
Comments
caphiker on Rainbow Ridge
I have hiked this trail once or twice each summer for years and have never seen a single person other than a hunter at the parking area. I think that is about to change.
Posted by:
caphiker on Aug 18, 2020 10:51 AM