We decided to continue to explore the Mt. Rainier area with Kelly Butte. The FR 70 leading up to the trial was in pretty decent shape, but once you turn onto FR7030 then FR7032 it is all gravel, very washboard like ride for ~15 miles. It is doable and well worth the beauty of this hike. We arrived at the trailhead at 10 AM to only 2 cars in the parking lot. The trail at the start begins in shaded forest then breaks out into exposed ridge/switchbacks for much of the hike. Once you break through the forest, watch for the small brown sign that says Trail--> to start going uphill via switchbacks. If you go straight at this junction, you will come upon the "old trail" which is basically a scramble up a steep slope with a snarled rope available for safety. Do yourself the favor and take the easier route. We were so transfixed by the great view of Mt. Rainier that we missed the trail sign and did the scramble with much huffing and puffing on an 80 degree day. The trail overall is steep, so recommend bringing those hiking poles to save those knees. The hike has some impressive views. We didn't see much for berries but there was a lot of wildflowers. It was a beautiful clear day and we could see many of the major peaks (Mt. Baker, Kaleetan Peak, Granite Mtn, Denny Mtn, Snoqualmie Mtn, Glacier Peak, etc) from the deck of the lookout tower. We ran into the hikers who owned the cars at the top. They were great, friendly funny people! We did encounter a few people on the way back down and the small parking lot (~5 cars) at the trailhead was full by the time we got back to the bottom. Highly recommend this hike on a clear summer day. You won't be disappointed!

On the road leading to the trailhead, we encountered a deer along the side of the road. Upon arrival at the trailhead at about 8.00am, there were already two other cars parked there. The weather was foggy and cold, with a light drizzle when we started on our hike. We brought along our puppy in a backpack and carried him all the way to the peak. The trail is relatively well maintained and easy to follow and there were wildflowers along the path. Halfway through our hike, the rain got heavier and it started to hail. Nearing the summit, we spotted two tents with overnight campers. Due to the heavy fog, we were unable to see the view of the valley and Mount Rainier. We took refuge from the rain/hail at the summit lookout and rested awhile before descending back down.

Well I must say going into this hike based off the reviews led me to believe it would be an "easier" hike with spectacular views...and although it did have spectacular views the whole way, I would classify this hike as moderate at the least (especially in 80deg no shade weather). It starts out as a flat forest road to a nice spot for a picture with Mount Rainier as a backdrop before hitting the switchbacks. It's all uphill from there and at times pretty steep until you get to the top. I would compare it to Pinnacle Peak but with more rocks and much more narrower in parts. It does level out towards the top making it a nice little walk up to the lookout. After FINALLY making it to the top I have to say, it was all worth it! The lookout was open with two cots, the center forest ranger stand, and some camping chairs. We sat on the backside of the tower in the shade for lunch over looking Mount Rainier and the beautiful panoramic views of the nearby hills and other mountains. We passed a couple other small groups with kids and dogs coming up but overall the trail was not crowded. Wild flowers are starting to bloom and the beargrass is plentiful so it's an enjoyable hike from start to finish. Also pretty easy to find based on the directions listed.

I was a little nervous about navigating all of the unmarked forest service roads and finding the "trailhead" but I found my way just fine. I was also nervous about being in the middle of nowhere alone with just my dog, but I am so glad I went through with it. Trail was in great condition. Personally, I would categorize this hike as moderate rather than easy, given the steep and rocky switchbacks. I would recommend boots with ankle support and trekking poles. The views were amazing. I saw a mountain goat (!!) and a little black snake. No other wildlife. Lots of wildflowers. Found one tick on my back, but none on my dog. The lookout was locked, but could have easily been entered if I had a phillips head screwdriver :/ Took me about 2 hours round-trip including about 15 minutes at the top just ogling at the view.

I have been wanting to do this hike for a long time now and I couldn't wait any longer. I have been keeping an eye on the trip reports and it has been awhile since the last one so here it is: Even though I knew it would be mostly cloudy with little chance of seeing the mountain a friend and I headed to the top. We were the only ones on the trail the whole time. A couple of snow patches that were easy to cross, just sunk a little a few times. It was very cold and windy at the top, quite a big difference from the temperature we experienced from the rest of the hike which was warmer. The lookout was awesome and I would love to come back on a nice summer day/night and stay...so I will be back!