Skyscraper Mountain — Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2009

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River

Skyscraper Pass 10-7-09 Meeting a couple nwhikers @ Sunrise to do Skyscraper Mt. my drive up 410 was eventful, just past Mud Mt. Dam I was passing a truck to pass and BAMMM I heard this horrible sound.. the sound where a bird hits your windshield and bounces off the roof. Not a good way to start the day. I felt bad for the poor birdy, I'm sure he didn't survive and I'm glad I didn't freak out and run off the road and or break my windshield.. then I thought I'd better slow down a bit and shortly after that saw a couple of large elk in the woods on the side or the road and then a BIG female in the middle of the road just taking her time to cross the road, she even stopped and starred at me for a minute.. I wished I had my camera up front. Met the ladies at 9:00 in the parking lot and we headed up the trail. The lodge is now closed and so are the flush bathrooms. There was a light dusting of snow on the trail at times, but mostly clear and bare. Only real snow was just before skyscraper pass and it was soft and fluffy. Snowdog spotted the goats first on the rocks. I snapped as many photos as I could. When we arrived at the top the family took off. We walked behind them on the way up to top and tried to capture more images, but they weren't having it. It was very exciting for me..I love the goats! Totally made my day. We then proceeded up the scramble, I think it was my first one. It was hard and the ladies were kicking my butt, but I finally made it! It was worth it, as it always is. Views to die for in all directions. Perfect clear day, not too hot, not too cold. Just right. We had snacks and headed down. Hike #83