Kautz Creek to Indian Henry's Hunting Ground — Tuesday, Sep. 20, 2016

Mount Rainier Area > SW - Longmire/Paradise

The Kautz Creek trail to Indian Henry’s may be pushing the “day hike” envelope. At 11.5 miles RT, this hike includes a steep climb up the Ridge from Hell before it drops down into a lovely alpine meadow upon which a back country patrol cabin perches. It’s not for novices. But if you’re legs are up for it, the rewards in solitude and stunning scenery are well worth the effort. The trail begins at Kautz Creek. Park in the lot directly across from the trail head and “viewpoint” boardwalk. Cross the street. The trail is well-marked. The first mile or so skirts Kautz Creek. It’s level and easy. Once you cross a couple foot log bridges over the creek, however, the trail starts climbing, at times precipitously. The good news: post-creek crossing, the lower portion of this hike is through a magnificent old growth forest dripping with evergreens. The first part of the trail winds its way under a lush canopy of silver and Douglas firs and western red firs, with plenty of shade. It snakes its way up a seemingly never-ending ridge into back country that’s as remote as it is scenic. After climbing a few miles, the trail levels out after you cross a creek skipping over mossy boulders, about 3 miles in. There are fewer switchbacks after the creek, which is now on your left. It's likely to be snow-snugged early in the season. The foot bridge may be slick if it’s wet, so watch your step. The break is brief, so enjoy it while you can. Shortly after crossing the creek, the trail winds steeply upward. Think mountain goat, with lots of switchbacks. A small clearing on the right at about four miles or so offers stunning views of Mount Adams. It’s a nice place to stop for lunch or to stuff your lungs back into your chest. Keep climbing. There are fewer switchbacks at this point. The trail gets steeper over a series of seemingly endless log stair steps. The trail levels out briefly through a stand of silver and Douglas firs and hemlock. The trail narrows along the top of the ridge. Then it’s more climbing up a gravelly trail. Be sure to turn around to catch some jaw-dropping views of the Nisqually Basin and, when it breaks into the clear, the Mountain! Climb some more past a rocky avalanche chute. Just about the time your feet are ready to rebel, you begin to descend into a beautiful basin rippling with wildflowers and autumnal color. You’re soon within sight of the back country patrol cabin. It kind of sneaks up on you. Be sure to sign the visitor’s log book. You can also rest those tired hoofers on one of the benches on the cabin’s front porch. Another mile or so past the cabin is Mirror Lakes. The trail is well-marked. The junction is about .3 miles from the cabin. The lakes are about .7 miles after that. Cross three collapsed food bridges on a boggy trail and you’re rewarded with excellent views and reflections of the Mountain on a clear day. This brief side trip is worth the effort if your legs aren’t Jell-o yet. Watch out for tangle foot on this trail. There’s plenty. If hiking in early spring or fall, bring a sweater, wind breaker, or fleece. Dress in layers. The breezes can get chilly the higher you climb, especially in the shade. This hike doesn't offer those eye-popping views of the Mountain until you've climbed your feet off. It does, however, offer a challenging up hill hike through dense forests and panoramic vistas as well as a sense of accomplishment when you hit the back country patrol cabin. Unless you’re Mo Farah, 18 years old or part mountain goat, plan on a full day for this hike. Be sure to bring lots of water and your camera. Did I mention climbing?