1st
Jun
I made my first attempt to summit Rainier in 2006 and made it to our 11,000-foot base camp. However, my conditioning was lacking, and hearing stories of groups coming back down after 15-hour summit attempts, I realized I could not continue with my team. Since then, Rainier has always been in the back of my mind, […]
20th
Aug
On this hot summer weekend, we decided to head out for a relaxing trip in the Chinook Pass / Bumping Lake area. Leaving late on a Friday, we decided to take it easy, camping at Dewey Lake on Friday night, American Lake on Saturday, and taking a short day hike out to Cougar Lakes, being sure […]
13th
Aug
Gem Lake is an oft overlooked destination for hikers. Snow Lake is a busy trail, which tends to dissuade serious hikers, and Gem Lake can be a long day for those less than serious. But, the escape from the crowds at Snow Lake, and the beauty of this subalpine pond make it a perfect destination. […]
6th
Aug
Gothic Basin is a popular, albeit intense, hike to a pristine alpine landscape. Located at the end of the paved section of Mountain Loop Highway, this hike begins at the old Monte Cristo Road. The road has been closed for many years now, though local landowners can drive in some of the way, however the […]
30th
Jul
This breathtaking alpine hike is a pleasant alternative to the busy Enchantments. Although perhaps not quite as beautiful as the Core Enchantments, the alpine lakes along Icicle Ridge are among the most spectacular in the state. But this hike is not for the feint of heart. With 4500 feet of elevation gain to Lake Edna […]
23rd
Jul
Having attacked this area of the Alpine Lakes region from several different angles, I’ve put together an optimal loop hike that would hit some of the most beautiful spots in Washington, all in one, 4–6 day loop. The planned route would start and end out of the Hyas Lake and Cathedral Pass Trailheads (both in the […]
16th
Jul
I have often referred to the Northern Loop as the mini Wonderland Trail. It has a little bit of everything as far as scenery goes. The only thing it is missing the the moonscape high alpine rocks of Panhandle Gap. And Amy and I were not disappointed in our four and a half day visit there […]
26th
Sep
There is something unquestionably powerful about the mountains. Their presence in our world is unmistakable. I am lucky to live in the shadow of one of the world’s great mountains, and blessed by the gift to be able to visit it often. Yesterday was one such occasion. I am consistently amazed by the majestic power […]