American Ridge, Goat Peak — Friday, Jul. 2, 2004

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

Started at Chinook Pass and headed around the north side of Naches Peak. Still lots of snow--at least half the trail--but someone had been there before us so we had some tracks to follow. Continued down to Dewey Lakes and on south to Crag Lake. Weather was cloudy. There were patches of snow all along the way, but nothing too difficult (glad to have had poles). Camped at the only site at Crag Lake, having seen only one person on the entire trail down from Naches Peak. Turned around next day and went back to American Ridge. Sun was out and we had great views of Rainier. Tons of wildflowers Encountered a large herd of elk. Again, lots of snow to American Lake. Left packs at American lake and went light along American Ridge Trail to the two small unnamed lakes. Some very good views along the way, but the stretch of PCT between Crag and American Lakes was nicer. Camped at one of a couple sits not closed for restoration at American Lake (fitting for the 4th of July) and headed back along PCT toward Naches Peak. Tried the south side of Naches Peak this time, but got turned around by a park volunteer because of our four-legged friend. Tramped back through the snow to the car then drove to the Goat Peak trailhead about 15 miles east on 410. Scrambled up to the Goat Peak Lookout (without packs, thank heavens). Trail was steep, hot and dusty but in great shape and snow-free. Interesting type of succulant plant growing right out of the dusty trail. Views from the lookout were as awesom as to be expected. My husband had had enough and left me at the trailhead and went to Bumping Lake for a swim. Not sure who made the better choice, but definitely recommend going there after the parching heat of Goat Peak trail. Warning: no water on the trail after the little stream in the first 1/2 mile. Fill up there.