Summit Lake - Mt. Rainier, WA

This is a really pleasant hike climbing in a moderate grade and the pristine alpine lake is just within 2.5 miles reach. If you follow the trail all the way to the end/Summit Lake Peak passing the lake, which can be achieved in a short extra mile distance, the reward is a "Wow" moment of the breathtaking view of Summit Lake and the majestic Mt. Rainier! The trail runs mostly through the forest, so the heat wave was not an issue when I hiked today. 

The trail is in good shape and offers a variety of terrains....switchbacks, meadows, lakes, bridges/creek crossing (very dry!), rocky trail. Sadly wild flowers are already fading along this trail, however.....it's too early to see that happening due to the abnormally warm and dry weather. I'd love to go back and hike again to see fall colors after the summer....boy, the views will be gorgeous, I can imagine. 

The forest road to the trailhead is very rough with pot holes and big rocks sticking out here and there, but passable with low clearance vehicles. Just take your time driving slow and carefully....my little sedan could make it, but dust!

 

Sheep Lake and Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section I.1 - White Pass - Chinook Pass, Mt. Rainier, WA

This is a lovely hike with a great view of mountains and wildflowers all long the trail. Trailhead (PCT trailhead) is easy access right along HWY 410/Chinook Pass. The trail toward Sheep Lake is at the end of the parking lot behind the restrooms. The short hike leads you on along stunning vistas of the deep opening valley of Chinook Pass. The hike to the lake is about 2 miles with a gentle grade. 

The lake and lush meadows are peacefully tucked in surrounded by mountains. I saw meadows carpeted with blue lupines all over and a touch of red paintbrush for an accent. What a beauty! 

As I had a little extra time when I returned to trailhead after the short hike to Sheep Lake, I decided to make a quick side trip via PCT/Chinook Pass - White Pass. The section of PCT begins at Naches Peak loop trailhead just across the bridge of Mt. Rainier National Park over the highway (you'll see the bridge in a distance on the way back to the parking lot from Sheep Lake). 

I trekked in/out about 1 mile or so along Naches Peak loop trail as part of PCT. There are wildflower meadows, creeks, and a small lake after the forest about a mile in. I'd love to go back again and explore that section of PCT down toward White Pass.

Mt. Ellinor - Olympic Peninsula, WA

Obviously, this hike is so popular that parts of the trail could get congested with traffic. Also, I was surprised to see many family hikers with small children trekking up all the way to the top. Believe me, this is NOT an easy hike. In fact, it's rather strenuous. And yet, it's worth the effort. 

I started my journey from Upper trailhead which climbs about 2,500 ft in 1.6 miles. It starts out with a series of merciless switchbacks through the forest.....some of the trees are really TALL! Once the tree line thins out, rocky trail begins, which eventually makes you feel like a mountain goat. It certainly kicks your butt! 

To speak of mountain goats, I saw five of them in this hike. They seem to be good-natured, but it is advised to stay calm and keep a safe distance from them. You never know how aggressive or even lethal they can be. After all, they are wild animals. 

When it's a clear day, the view from the summit is spectacular. Wild flowers are just beginning. I saw glacier lilies for the first time in this season.

 

3.2 miles RT (Upper trail)

2,500 ft elevation gain

 

Summerland and Panhandle Gap - Wonderland Trail, Mt. Rainier, WA

Summerland

“The hills are alive with the sound of music...." The lyrics of The Sound of Music will echo as you hike along Summerland trail. Summerland is, perhaps, one of the most beautiful hikes in Mt. Rainier National Park. It is part of Wonderland Trail (93 mile loop trail which goes around Mt. Rainier) and also the highest segment of the loop. 

Summerland trail travels along Fryingpan Creek and gradually ascends through the forest for the first 3 miles with grand vistas of waterfalls and mountain peaks.  Be entertained with a number of creek-crossings and log bridges one after another, and the hike is pleasant and exciting, but never monotonous. The trail climbs steep for the last 1 mile in tight switchbacks before reaching the splendor of Summerland’s spectacular mountain vistas and beautiful wild flower meadows.  Enjoy the reward after the final push. It is such a heavenly place....“the hills are alive with the sound of music”. 

The following 2 miles from Summerland lead you up to Panhandle Gap…the land of rocks and snow/ice. The trail climbs the eastern wall of Summerland basin by Fryingpan Glacier, and the last ascent of the trail is to traverse the steep ridge of Panhandle Gap (6,800’) and scramble to the rocky top.  The views are spectacular....behind the trail is Summerland and Mount Rainier with glacier views, and on the opposite side the valley of Ohanapecosh pans out toward Indian Bar which is a halfway point to Box Canyon. Take a good look at the view south of Panhandle Gap as you ascend. The towering peak seen in the distance is Mt. Adams (12.280’).  

Summerland is a great hike where you can experience in just one day the essence of what Wonderland Trail offers.  It’s not only a wonderful wilderness hike, but also an unforgettable journey for its beauty and splendor.

 

Roundtrip - 12 miles 

Elevation Gain - 2,950’ 

Highest Point - 6,800’

How to get there: From Enumclaw, drive east 43 miles on State Route 410 to the Mount Rainier National Park White River Entrance.  Drive about 4 miles on Sunrise Road to the trailhead parking near the bridge over Fryingpan Creek.

Panhandle Gap