Skyline Trail Loop — Saturday, Jul. 31, 2021

Crowded, busy hike but absolutely worth dealing with the morons on trail for the views. One of the best day hikes in Mt. Rainier IMO. That said, DO NOT walk straight through the meadows; STAY ON TRAIL! (WTF?!) Also, NO DOGS and if you bring a dog and have to head back, DON'T LEAVE IT IN THE CAR WHILE YOU HIKE?! (Seriously, take blood pressure medicine if you have it because I witnessed lots of infuriating, selfish, a-hole behavior.)

Arrived at Paradise around 9am and had to park on the side of the road, but no big deal. Unfortunately, lost a watch so didn't get started hiking until closer to 10am, though I don't think that made a huge difference — it was crowded up at Paradise and the start either way. Do this hike clockwise so you can look at Rainier the whole way. 

Up to Panorama Point is all uphill, but it's manageable. We were essentially in a line of people going up, but it's fine because you're not going fast anyway. Absolutely amazing views but the second half of the hike is even more enjoyable because the wildflowers are in full bloom right now and there weren't nearly as many hikers. Lots of opportunities on this (east) side for photos that won't have other folks in the background. Took us about three hours overall, and actually the overcast weather was perfect because it would've been hella hot otherwise. (If you go on a sunny day, know there's no shade cover.) Also saw several marmots today!

FYI we arrived at Nisqually entrance around 8:40am and it took us about 20 minutes to get through