It was a great hike with fall's crisp air on the sunny weekend after all the rain clouds passed. Surprisingly, the trail was snow/ice free and not even muddy all the way from the trailhead to the summit. I was hoping to see elks, but no luck except elk tracks and scats. I saw a couple of grouse, which was a treat of wildlife after all.
Crystal Peak can be rated as a strenuous hike gaining 3,100 ft in 3.8 miles. The trail constantly climbs with short/long switchbacks. Although it may not be an easy hike, the journey offers a variety of entertainment which may make you feel the hike is actually fun instead of torture....moss-covered forest, creek crossing, log bridge, talus rocks, alpine meadows/vegetation and stunning views of Mt. Rainier/White River and other mountain ranges. The 360 panorama at the top is worth the effort and you can see 6 peaks of N. Cascades with this one hike....Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Glacier Peak, Mt Adams, Mt. Hood, Mt. St Helens. Also, Crystal Lakes are seen down below.
Trailhead is located right along Hwy 410 at about 4 miles south after the national park's wooden gate. Parking is limited off the road.
Crystal Peak can be rated as a strenuous hike gaining 3,100 ft in 3.8 miles. The trail constantly climbs with short/long switchbacks. Although it may not be an easy hike, the journey offers a variety of entertainment which may make you feel the hike is actually fun instead of torture....moss-covered forest, creek crossing, log bridge, talus rocks, alpine meadows/vegetation and stunning views of Mt. Rainier/White River and other mountain ranges. The 360 panorama at the top is worth the effort and you can see 6 peaks of N. Cascades with this one hike....Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker, Glacier Peak, Mt Adams, Mt. Hood, Mt. St Helens. Also, Crystal Lakes are seen down below.
Trailhead is located right along Hwy 410 at about 4 miles south after the national park's wooden gate. Parking is limited off the road.
7.6 miles RT
3,100 ft gain
Highest Point: 6,595 ft
