Camping in Mt. Rainier

We just got back from a camping trip/family reunion in Mt. Rainier for several days. It's been so hot here, it was really nice to get up into the mountains for a change of scenery and weather! Mt. Rainier, which is over 14,000 feet up is so big, it creates its own weather systems, so you never really know quite what to expect. It was GORGEOUS the entire time we were there, warmish during the day and cool in the evenings. This really is one of the best times of the year to visit as all the wildflowers are in bloom and the views are spectacular.

We went on several hikes, including one that hearkens me back to my high school years: Comet Falls. It was as gorgeous as I remember it but my 33-year-old out of shape body sure wishes my 19-year-old in shape body had been there! :) But it was fabulous nonetheless. It was great seeing many members of Andy's family (cousins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents, etc...)


Comet Falls


The top of Comet Falls

I'm posting some of the best pictures from our trip. We're annoyed with ourselves with not getting one (not even one!!) of our campsite, which was unique and lovely. Oh well. Enjoy...we sure did!!!


About the closest you'll ever see a chipmunk/squirrel type rodent get to me.


This is a pika - they are on the endangered species list and are hard to find, but we were able to see three on our trip! Pretty cute for a rodent.


Wildflowers




Snow lake


More wildflowers


Wildflowers



Nathan, taking a break



Micah and Andy's cousin Tim



The hearty avalanche lily - one of the few flowers that can grow near the summit of Mt. Rainier


The view from the Wonderland Trail at Mt. Rainier


Mt. Rainier


My favorite - Mt. St. Helens in the distance


Mt. Adams in the distance


Mt. Rainier in all her glory




More wildflowers


A glimpse of Pinnacle Peak...I dragged my poor friend Becca up this glorious but rocky peak when she visited me during our college years






A parting shot of Mt. Rainier