We arrived at the trailhead around 9:30 a.m., and both parking lots were nearly full. We quickly got ready and hit the trail. Despite the crowded parking, we pretty much had the trail to ourselves—only passing three groups on our way to the summit. Most hikers were probably heading to Crystal Lakes instead.
The trail was in great condition and completely snow-free. A variety of wildflowers were blooming, phlox, glacier lilies, paintbrush, and lupine and many more I don't know. I was surprised not to see a single beargrass along the trail.
From the summit, we had clear views of Mount Adams and Rainier, but the other volcanoes were hidden behind clouds. We enjoyed our lunch while watching more clouds roll in. As the wind started picking up, we decided it was time to head back down.
All in all, it was a fantastic day out in the mountains!
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