Tolmie Peak Lookout - Eunice Lake — Monday, Sep. 12, 2016

Mount Rainier Area > NW - Carbon River/Mowich

The road to the trailhead was in very good condition, a few minor potholes which could be avoided. I have a VW golf and managed the drive with ease. I started early (walking by 9am) and was rewarded with the trail all to myself! There was a work party at the very beginning of the trail along the edge of Mowich lake and they were only too happy to let me pass. I gradient of this trail is fantastic, my ascent to the lookout on top of Tolmie peak was a breeze and took about 80 minutes. The views from here were fantastic. As it was a clear day I could see Mt Baker and Seattle all the way to the north and Mount Rainier was looking fantastic as always. There were very few wildflowers which is always sad and some of the fall colors were starting to show. On my way back to the car I passed several other groups who started after me on the trail. Depending on where you park the return trip is not as long as the hiking guide makes out. I parked at the trailhead not at mowich lake. From here a trail marker said it would be 2.8 miles to the lookout on Tolmie peak. I was finished and back home much earlier than I'd anticipated.