Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Spray Park, Mount Rainier National Park
Due to a permit snafu, we had to do our 2-day hike (with a remote camp) in a single day-hike. We started from the Mowich Lake campground and headed east towards the Eagle Cliffs viewpoint (where we argued about whether a knife-like ridge was part of an active glacier or a moraine) and then to Spray Falls (where we ate some yummy smoked trout). The falls were quite impressive. We then slogged up through the forest until reaching the first of the Spray Park meadows (listening to Britta's tale of being attacked by a swarm of bees while mushroom hunting). The views of Rainier were excellent, flowers were in bloom, and all was good in the world. The trail climbs through meadows until reaching an area of bare rocks and views to the Olympics and northern Cascades. We then began a long, long descent to the Carbon River Valley. Once we finally reached the valley, we headed up-valley and soaked in the sun while watching the Carbon Glacier. All that was left was the final 3.5 miles down to the Ipsut Creek campground where Dave P had left his rental SUV. For some reason Bil decided to run this section. All 7 of us piled in and zipped back up to the Mowich Lake camp. Britta, Keith, Shaili, Dave P, Bil, Joanna and I comprised the hiking party today.
Distance: About 12 miles
Elevation Gain: 1700', 3200' loss
Weather: Gloriously sunny, 60s
Dog Rating: No Dogs Allowed (Grrr)
