It was a beautiful day at Mt. Rainier. The temps were mild, the air was clear, the trail wasn't crowded. We arrived at the trailhead about 10, lot was only 1/2 full. Hurray for hiking on a Monday!
The trail is in great shape. The crossing of Fryingpan Creek required only a bit of rock hopping, it wasn't difficult. We found lots of Avalanche Lilies blooming at the switchbacks. There are a few short and slightly tricky snow fields on the switchbacks, we had no need for spikes but poles were a great aid. We saw a couple of elk across the valley on the flanks of Goat Island Mt. while we were climbing the switchbacks.
The wildflowers aren't out yet at Summerland itself. We had a lazy lunch just beyond the camp and watched a couple of marmots romp. That was it for actual wildlife sighting, no goats. We did note fresh bear scat on the way down that wasn't there on the way up!
Please stay on the trail and don't meadow stomp in this wonderful bit of wilderness! And be bear aware, but skip the bear bells.
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