Trip

Day Hike - Crystal Lakes (Mount Rainier)

This forest to meadow hike in Mt Rainier N.P. provides beautiful spring flowers. It will be a naturalist outing to explore local plants and wildlife and meets requirements for Field Trip-4 of the Seattle Introduction to the Natural World 2022 course (email me ahead of opening of registration). Others are welcome to take other spots when registration opens. There will be frequent stops.

Fri, Jul 15, 2022
Committee: Seattle Naturalists Committee
Activity Type: Naturalist
Audience: Adults

Difficulty: Moderate
Leader Rating: Moderate
Mileage: 6.0 mi
Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
Pace: moderate with frequent stops

Availability: 1 (10 capacity)
Assistant Leader Availability: FULL (2 capacity)
Cancellation & Refund Policy

Meeting place and time

Meet at 9:30am at the trailhead along SR-410.

No entry pass is required and there is no restroom at the trailhead.

Leader's notes

Since this is a naturalist activity we will stop frequently to identify trees, ferns and other plants. Birds and other wildlife will be observed and discussed as well. Bring binoculars, a loupe, wildflower and bird apps on your phone or a book if you like. Bring snacks/lunch and water and utilize as needed as we move upward on the trail. Bring rain gear in case of showers. This is a beautiful area as we move up into the meadow. As an option some may go up to 500 feet above the upper lake to get broader views (including a Mt Rainier sighting) and to see additional flowers, but stopping at the lake will be the main objective. Extending the trip will be dependent on weather and group interest and not required. Staying at the lake can be very satisfying.

Route/Place

Crystal Lakes (Mount Rainier)

Recommended Maps:
Trails Illustrated Mount Rainier National Park
Green Trails Mt Rainier East No. 270
Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX
See full route/place details.