What: A visually stimulating hike through a deep old-growth forest into alpine meadows that reward hikers with fantastic views of the lesser-seen north side of Mount Rainier.
Where: From Puyallup drive 13 miles east on Highway 410 to Buckley. Turn right onto Highway 165 heading South and proceed towards Carbonado. Just after the Carbon River bridge, turn right onto Mowich Lake Road. Follow the sometimes bumpy road for 17 miles to the end. A Northwest Forest Pass is required at the trailhead.
Length: 6 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Beginning elevation: 4,929 feet
Highest elevation: 6,229 feet Maps: Green Trails No. 269 USGS Quad Mowich Lake
Notes: Park at the Mowich Lake parking lot and head south from the lake toward the trailhead. The trail starts heading down immediately and joins the Wonderland Trail in a quarter-mile, which circumnavigates the entire mountain. Follow the deeply wooded trail until you reach the first attraction, Eagle Cliff Lookout. This is a great place to take a picture of Mount Rainier and the Mowich Glacier on your return. Since the sun rises behind the mountain, your picture might not turn out well if you take it in the morning.
Follow the trail for 2 miles through the old-growth forest until you reach Spray Falls. This sideshow is a mere 10 minutes, and worth the trip on the way back. The trail then starts to ascend some steep switchbacks before entering the alpine meadows in a half-mile. Once across a small footbridge, the flowers and smells of Spray Park surround you. Be aware that bears are often seen in the vicinity, but often stay far away from people, since there can be a large amount of traffic all week long on the trail (A bear bell is always a wise investment). Follow the trail for another half-mile until you reach the saddle that looks down on Seattle Park with extensive views to the north, and of the north side of Mount Rainier and its glaciers.
More information: Paradise Visitor Center 360-569-6036 Open daily 10am to 6pm.
Scott Harder is owner of Cascade Guiding Services out of Snohomish. www.cascadeguide.com
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