Went to Tipsoo Lake today and stopped by the start of Naches Peak Loop, and it’s still closed.

PCT portion of route closed due to Wildcat fire. We opted to do an out and back going counterclockwise from Tipsoo Lake to the main viewpoint area and back.

Got a good view of the fire, including flames peeking over the distant ridge. Smoke wasn’t too bad on the west side of the ridge, but did make for a mild haze that limited clear views of Mt. Rainier

Blueberries are ripe.

We had a great hike on Sept 4th ,   although a bit smoky.  Now the trail is closed!  Wonder why and if it will reopen this year?  We drove over the pass today and it was not smoky at all and also not smoky around the Bumping  Lake area.  
any info anyone?  

Arrived at the trailhead around 1:30 PM and parking was crowded, but squeezed into a space. 

Definitely recommend doing this trail clockwise, for the best view of Rainier. Total distance for the loop was 3.65 miles -- a delightful trail! 

We arrived just before 10 am at the parking lot and there were many places to park.  When we left under 2 hours later, there were people in cars circling and waiting.

In the parking lot, the smoke from the nearby fire was noticeable.  I felt that it was okay and my hiking partner reluctantly went along. 

We did the hike clockwise, which starts out on a climb past a meadow with fading flowers.  After we passed the lakes above and started circling back, the air cleared and was fresh.

I'm not sure if there were bugs but after that I did have bug bites!

There is climbing and there are some social trails near the lakes that create a little confusion.  It is very nice hike in that it is short yet scenic.