This hike is one of a kind. As in one of a kind of punishment. It's worth it though. But it isn't easy. If however you enjoy hiking uphill, up a 20% grade in hot airless forest for the first part to reach alpine bliss, you will love it. It is 5.5 miles to the… Continue reading Pyramid Peak Loop
Tag: Backpacking
Esmeralda Basin Backpacking Loop
Having visited the Esmeralda Basin area multiple times before, to take various trails off the end of of the Teanaway River Road, we concocted a loop of sorts to backpack. We were hopeful it'd be good, and it did turn out well. So follow along for a trip not found in the hiking guides. We… Continue reading Esmeralda Basin Backpacking Loop
Shriner Peak Trail and Lookout Tower
Shriner Peak/Lookout is tucked away on the quiet side of Mount Rainier National Park. Reached via Hwy 123, it is a very long drive no matter where you are coming from. That isn't necessarily a bad thing for scoring a permit to spend the night at the top of the peak. There are two sites… Continue reading Shriner Peak Trail and Lookout Tower
Backpacking to Olallie Creek Campground
When the high country isn't melted out, but you really want to spend a night in the woods. The Cowlitz Divide Trail is one of the lesser used trails of Mount Rainier National Park. For one, it is located on the far side of the park, near Ohanapecosh and the Stevens Canyon entrance off of… Continue reading Backpacking to Olallie Creek Campground
Ancient Lakes
Ancient Lakes is a great choice for a first of the year backpacking trip or dayhike, before Eastern Washington heats up. Go in winter (while it snows, usually it is minimal and just freezes) or in early Spring, before April. Take all your water with you, the lakes water isn't necessarily safe due to agricultural… Continue reading Ancient Lakes