Day Hike - Crystal Peak (Mount Rainier)

Attn: We are changing our hiking route to Crystal Peak due to snow on the Fremont Lookout Route!

New Meeting Time: 7 am

Weather Forecast: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.9224291234&lon=-121.533776119

Parking Permit: None

Trailhead Location: The trailhead is about 0.5 miles north of the turnoff for Sunrise on Highway 410 in Rainier National Park. There is parking on both sides of the road.

Links for hike from Alltrails and WTA:

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/crystal-peak-mount-rainier-national-park

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/crystal-peaks#hike-trailhead-and-map

Rick and I will be leading you up to Crystal Peak. I am hoping a clear day in order to see the six volcanos  visible from this peak; they are Baker, Glacier, Adams, Rainier, St. Helens and Hood!

Crystal Peak has multiple switchbacks, and I find it similar in distance and elevation gain to Mt. Si. Unlike Si, however, Crystal Peak offers a variety of wildflowers (bear grass, tiger lilies, lupine, phlox, even magenta Indian paintbrush) as we climb.

This hike is similar in difficulty to the Fremont Lookout. While the elevation gain is greater, the altitude is lower. Our goal is to stick together as a group and enjoy the scenery as we make our way up to Crystal Peak. If you are concerned about your fitness level, please feel free to reach out. 

Please feel free to contact me also if I've missed any details. I will provide a Hello Hiker letter several days before we leave with more updated information.