All pics from my trip:
http://weathercrazy.smugmug.com/Landsca ... er-Part-II
Opening pic:
This trail does NOT offer views of Rainier, but it's a great way to get away from the crowds around Sunrise and Paradise.
I was very disappointed to find most of the wildflowers gone. However, the hike up through the forest on a very wide open trail was relaxing.
Not too much to talk about, the trail is in great shape. It becomes thinner near the lakes.
These are among the nicest secluded mountain lakes that I know about, yet so close to the road.
At the turn around point for me, the saddle near Kotsuck Creek, there looks to be marsh land that used to be old lake beds...a fate of most lakes eventually as they fill with dirt.
It wasn't the best lightning as it was nearing midday and the sun was beaming down. Still, it was a great hike through the
forest.I met a friend:
Short and sweet, a few hours on the trail, then onto Crystal Mountain, then back to Sunrise.
I took this shot looking back toward the lake basin, it shows Governors Ridge as well
Here's the other side of Governor's Ridge, looking west here from Tipsoo Lake
Tipsoo Lake the next morning:
Can you see the deer here at Reflection Lakes?
Closer:
Saw this, what appeared to be a cub, near Paradise picnic! My 7th bear siting in the park.
A few flowers left, but fading fast. I can't wait to be back up there next week!
