[Highwalker's Daughter]

This was the grand finale to our 4 days around Rainier. Laura and Renee joined me for a hike to Crystal Lakes. We got an early start and hit the lakes before too many people were there so even though there was a chill wind, they were determined to swim in it. I thought it would be freezing, but they insisted it wasn't so I couldn't let myself be the only one not to swim so I stripped down and went in also. It was quite refreshing after 3 days without a shower! We hung out until about noon; then headed back down 1.6 miles to the fork with the trail for Crystal Peak. Everyone was game to add this to our day so off we went. Stats: just for Crystal lake 6 miles roundtrip with 2300 feet of gain To combine with Crystal Peak, you lose quite a bit of elevation gain which you need to regain. Then you also add 5 miles roundtrip. We figured based on the altimeter that our net gain was about 4100 feet. The trail to the peak was incredible. The path was great and even though it goes steadily up, it is formed with a lot of long contouring switchbacks. The flowers were amazing and no bugs to speak of. There was a chill wind, and the mist rolled in and out, but we enjoyed the trail through the huge meadow area to the summit. We rested a bit out of the wind just below the summit and let the other people up there finish their time alone; after they came down, we went up the remaining 50 feet and looked down on the lakes. We came out feeling fantastic - great two trails!

Renee and Laura on the way up to the lakes

upper Crystal Lake

swimming

on the way up to the peak

views along the way

getting closer

dead trees and flowers

relaxing out of the wind

the final few feet to the summit

we made it

views from the top

heading down from the summit

[the Zachster]

What a great way to finish off a great week of hiking! It's not likely that you would get me in the water on a chilly day like yesterday...I'll stay dry and take pictures, thank you! I'm really glad your knee didn't hold you back from enjoying this trip. And I'm glad I got to join you for part of it!

[ree]

Awesome trip! So glad you got out for some fun!

Gorgeous shot! I love swims. Were the bugs hideous?

[Hikingqueen]

Sounds like a wonderful finish! So glad I got to spend more time with you and meet your mom.

[Highwalker's Daughter]

No real bug problems at all. I saw and heard a few but wasn't bothered.