Kelly Butte — Thursday, Jul. 31, 2008

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

Inspired by the article in the WTA magazine, we set off for Kelly Butte Lookout in spite of the clouds and slightly chilly weather. We parked at the trailhead on FR7030 and did not attempt to drive the additional 0.6 miles along the rough access road. The road was pleasant and shady and full of wildflowers. It opens up where the “new” trail begins. This is the first trail that you see, and consists of numerous switchbacks that were like terraced gardens of paintbrush, yarrow, pearly everlasting, tiger lilies and fading bear grass. Even though the heavy clouds and mist prevented any views, the trail was still magnificent because of the wildflowers and general interest as you work your way up the volcanic cliffs. Climbing higher, the bear grass is in full flower and the meadows are full of lupine and asters, (and many whose names I don't know). We even found some ripe strawberries. On the ridgetop, surrounded by clouds, the lookout remained hidden until we were 50 feet away. We would come again for the views, although it is likely to be exposed and hot on a clear day. No water on the trail. We only met 3 other groups. If it is a cloudy day- don’t forget an extra jacket!