Skyline Trail Loop — Tuesday, Sep. 27, 2016

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise

This was my first time hiking in Paradise and it's interesting seeing the south side of the mountain in comparison with Sunrise which is where I usually go. The Skyline trail is one of the most beautiful and diverse trails that I've hiked. This trail is beautifully maintained and easy to follow but It's also a lung burner, ascending relentlessly to the Glacier Vista. If you haven't hiked in awhile, take your time. Most people turn back at the viewpoint but it's worth climbing a little higher to one of the nicest backcountry toilets that I've ever seen. At this point you can continue along the upper Skyline trail (which we did) or backtrack. I recommend doing the entire loop as you will see a wider variety of scenery: waterfalls, creek crossings and snow. It is worth mentioning that the weather can change rapidly on Rainier so be prepared. The sky was completely blue when we started but quickly turned cloudy as we climbed up the trail (see photos for contrast). The temperature dropped about 10 degrees and people who were inadequately dressed had to turn around. Marmots are easy to spot along the trail, temperature is ideal, crowds are sparser and the fall colors are beginning to pop. Now's the time to go!