Mt. Rainier
Weekend Getaway. by Chris Hoffman
It’s that time of year when we begin to count down the number of weekends where good weather is still available for outdoor ventures. What better way to enjoy one of these precious weekends than on a trip to our region’s greatest outdoor treasure, Mt. Rainier?
While Mt. Rainier National Park is only an hour and a half away, it can be daunting task to plan a weekend trip because there is so much to do and so many places to go. I find it more fun and less stressful to pick two or three activities rather than trying to conquer the whole park. But on that note, it is also important to remember that you don’t always have to go into the park to enjoy your outdoor experience, and great views of the mountain!
On a recent trip to Mt. Rainier I decided I wanted to avoid the crowds and stay off the most beaten paths. I wanted to find a place to camp that would be quiet and peaceful, that had basic facilities, and that was near water. I was happy to find Lonesome Lake, a small, three site campground off Highway 410.
While I had to drive for about thirty minutes once I got off highway 410 on Forest Service Road 73, the trip was well worth it. I had the place to myself when I arrived and picked a spot next to the small but scenic lake. My site had a picnic table and fire ring, while primitive facilities were just a short walk away.
My dreams of a quiet weekend were fulfilled! I fell asleep to the breeze whispering through towering pines and awoke to singing birds. For those that don’t want to drive as far and are looking for more developed campgrounds, there are four campgrounds within the park. Just beware that there are park entrance and campground fees and can make reservations in advance at two of the campgrounds.
My activities for the weekend included a strenuous hike on Saturday to Norse Peak and a drive up to Suntop Peak on Sunday. I chose the hike to satisfy my craving for physical activity and the drive for its spectacular 360-degree views. The Norse Peak Trailhead is just off the road to Crystal Mountain. It can be a little tricky to find but it fit perfectly into my plans to stay off the beaten path.
The hike starts off moving steadily uphill, but you are soon rewarded with ever expanding views of Crystal Mountain Ski Area and Mt. Rainier. On my hike I came across a few other small parties and I was soon out in open meadows with small snowdrifts that hadn’t fully melted. After about five miles, I neared the summit of Norse Peak and enjoyed my lunch at almost 7,000 feet, where I also took in unobstructed views at all points on my compass. I was also glad I packed a lot of water because the day was hot and sunny and shade was nowhere to be found after the first couple miles.
After my Norse Peak climb I was tired of hiking but not of the views. At the top of Suntop Peak breathtaking and abundant views of Mt. Rainier spread out before you. You can leisurely enjoy these views and cool mountain breezes from one of the picnic tables near the summit. Also be sure to check out the fire lookout. Built in 1933, it is one of only two intact lookouts from that era. Suntop Peak is an easy drive from Highway 410 as well. Just head up Forest Service Road 73 and then take a left on Forest Service Road 7315. In six short miles the views will be all yours to enjoy.
A mountain as big as Mt. Rainier is best enjoyed during small excursions. You don’t always have to follow the crowd by traveling to the most popular spots to enjoy its views and experiences. But, with fall weather coming, I would advise you to plan trip soon so that you can enjoy this perfect end of summer trip on clear and warm days.
Check out websites for more information: http://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm for campgrounds and to www.wta.org for hiking trails.
