Burroughs Mountain — Sunday, Jul. 29, 2018

The directions from the parking lot at Sunrise to Frozen Lake, to begin with, were surprisingly vague. I waltzed through the picnic area assuming it would funnel me into the Sunrise Campground trail, but ended up instead at the door of what sounded like huge generator facility a bit west of the camps. Now, did I look around much for a proper trailhead? Of course not. Did I swallow my pride and actually ask for help? No way, partner! (note - this isn't and endorsement for this, uh, technique.)

There are several routes up (the Sourdough Ridge trail, Sunrise Rim trail, or the service road below the parking lot that connects up to the Wonderland Trail.) Regardless, it is't far, but it may be worth asking someone if you are confused. 

I had intended to check out Skyscraper Mountain, but on arriving at Frozen Lake was pretty much told by a Park Ranger, "Look, kid, If you've never been here you'd be stupid not to hike up Burroughs." 

I'm paraphrasing, but he got his point across. So up we climbed. The trail is completely without shade or cover, so bring water and sunscreen or you'll pay dearly. While it isn't long, it does gain some hefty elevation and gets the heart thumping. You'll ascend through a big scree field marked by a weather-worn sign declaring this ecosystem proper tundra, which is cool. Take your time up this and look for the Pikas that call these rocks home. 

At the top (Burroughs 1), you'll find yourself on a big flat plateau that could easily fit a football field. It's kind of miraculous in such a dramatic landscape to find something this level and open. Catch your breath here and ascend another few hundred feet to Burroughs 2, which grants you with an even more intimidating view of Mt. Rainier. Many folks call it quits here, as you can't really beat this view. If you do want to beat this view, however, you're more than welcome to continue on across grassy steppes to Burroughs 3 (another 400 feet up). It will add about 2.5 miles to your round trip, but you'll likely leave most other hikers and tourists in the dust. 

Mt. Rainier is a magnificent thing. It's sometimes hard to believe it's right here in our backyard. I was happy to see such a variety of hikers on this trail -- people from around the world, people that look nothing like me, people in jeans, people carrying smaller people on their backs, people generally just having a good time, getting to see a special part of a special world.