Mt. Rainier National Park
August 8, 2023 Day 1
The park is a large square surrounding Mt. Rainier. I went through the NE entrance in the late afternoon, so I only had time for a shorter hike. Glacier Basin trail connected to Emmons Moraine trail was a nice hike through the forest until I had to cross the White River on a rickety single log bridge. The river is aptly named as it is a milky white from the glacial silt runoff. Up the hill on the other side of the river was a fabulous view of Emmons glacier and quite a few smaller peaks. I talked to a nice younger gentleman that had climbed several of the peaks. As I sat admiring the view, clouds came in from the west, smashed up against the mountain and oozed over the top. One of my hiking poles broke on the way back down but, one is better than none and I needed to get on the road to be at the campground before dark. Surprisingly, I was able to reserve a camp site in Ohanapecosh campground only a week before.
August 9, 2023 Day 2
I woke up refreshed as I had the sounds of the Ohanapcosh river right next to my tent all night. I had planned on several hikes in the Paradise and Longmire areas along the southern part of the park however, Stevens Canyon Rd was closed so I could not get to them from my campground. The alternate plan was a hike to Silver Falls and a small hot springs. This was an easy stroll through the forest and pretty waterfall at the end of the trail. The hot springs were mildly disappointing as it was barely a trickle of water coming out. I packed up camp and headed out of the park, hoping to visit Paradise and Longmire areas on my next visit.
Total Cost: $40
