Tolmie Peak Lookout - Eunice Lake — Wednesday, Sep. 4, 2013

Mount Rainier Area > NW - Carbon River/Mowich

Easily one of the best hikes I've done. It's only about 3 miles to the lookout tower and it's pretty easy for the first two miles. The last stretch will give you a good workout since it's a straight climb to the top (about 700 feet). You'll see a sign on your left that says Tolmie Peak as you're driving up the road. Park there to start your hike. The trail goes along Mowich Lake and you'll hit Eunice Lake at around the 2 mile mark. Stop here for some photos as you can see the lookout tower above! As you're climbing up this last stretch, you'll emerge out of the forest and you will be reward with a magnificent view of Eunice Lake and Mt. Rainier on your right. Take your photos here because this is honestly the best view. After that, keep pushing the incline and you'll eventually get to the tower. Chill, relax, eat your lunch, and hang out at the tower and enjoy the view and breeze before you head back down. I was fortunate enough to get to the top before the heavy fog rolled in that day. I could barely see 100 feet in front of me as I was getting back to my car.