Mt. Rainier

On our first day in the park, we explored the Longmire area. There was supposed to be a good view of the mountain here, but it was a little cloudy...

We did get to see the Nisqually Suspension Bridge. Built almost 100 years ago, it's been rebuilt several times.

We then went on a mile-long hike to Carter Falls. We started off crossing the Nisqually River on this log bridge.

We then walked uphill, past remnants of a wire-wrapped wooden flume that used to carry water to a powerhouse.

This old log has quite the hairdo!

Carter Falls!

On the way home we stopped at the Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park.

I helped this guy play the guitar.

The next day, we went to the Paradise section of the park. And Paradise it is! The Skyline trail goes right up to the mountain!

The Avalanche Lilies, and many other wildflowers were in full bloom.

And the marmots were having a great time playing in the little bit of snow that was left.

Behind me I could see Mt. Adams -

And Mount St. Helens.

Some climbers zoomed past us.

I loved the blue color of the glaciers on the mountain.

The Paradise Lodge was very homey.

On the way home, we stopped off at Narada Falls.

In addition to the unique volcanic rock behind the falls, we had a great rainbow!

We stayed at a lake in Mineral. Doesn't this look great? Unfortunately, we were at the other end of the lake, at a horrible Campground with no view. Lots of permanent residents in 40-year-old trailers at the Lions Den C/G. I only stayed a couple days, then moved on.