I have taken many day-hikes around Rainier in the past couple years, but Spray Park has to be the most satisfying thus far. After reading all the positive (and numerous) reviews of this trail, it sounded like something worth checking out.
The trail begins near the Mowich Lake campground and immediately drops in elevation. The path quickly levels out and eventually beings to rise and drop in elevation modestly for two miles until you reach the Spray Falls junction. Like everyone else has been writing, take the short jaunt to Spray Falls. It is not something to pass up. Except for a brief steep incline, these first two-miles are relatively easy on the legs.
After Spray Falls, you begin a series of 12 switchbacks to the lower Spray Park region. The last two are quite long. Trail condition varies, but mostly consists of roots and rock. Elevation gain becomes gentler as you enter the heart of Spray Park. A wide-open meadow with acres of wildflowers, ponds, boulders, and marmots will suddenly come into view. There are a few trails that branch off to other areas, each with unique viewpoints. The only problem is deciding where to stop for a brake. Mt. Rainier appears to be so close, you'll want to head straight toward it. Keep going on the main trail and you'll eventually ascend above the tree line where you'll have open views of the northern Cascades. I stopped at a vista just before the pass that separates Spray Park from Seattle Park that offered a great view of Echo Rock. Takes about an hour and a half to reach Spray Park from Mowich Lake.
Spray Park is a photographer's dream. It's remote enough to still offer solitude, at least on weekdays. Arrive at the trailhead early and allow several hours to explore the park. Come prepared for mosquitos.
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