I was super excited to visit Mt Rainer, hearing that the wildflowers are in full bloom during late July and Early August, but was disappointed by the abundance of snow still covering every inch of the park. Well I guess that means I will have to head back to see what “paradise” really is. Well here is a view of Mt Rainer and the early settlers on the mountain.

We made another epic hike on the Skyline Trail to visit Panoramic point. At this point you are able to see the tops of Mt Hood, Mt St Helens and another peak which I forgot the name of.

My mom is frightened of snow and the fact that she has to walk in it is torture for her. I told her that there is an easier way down then up, and its just sliding on your butt.

And she complied.

As I said, I didn’t make it to Rainier during the perfect lighting situations, but here is a photo just for my memories. I hope to get back during sunset or sunrise to get a nice pink glow on the peak next time, and hopefully with an abundance of wildflowers in the foreground.

We also visited Mt St Helens, which recently erupted in 1980. It is pretty eerie to see that this once known vacation spot is now a desolate area covered with colorful wildflowers.

Clinging on to dear life.

I am hoping to come back to this area as well, hopefully sooner then later. What a beautiful new beginning to a terrible end.

View of the Mt St Helens valley with Spirit lake accompanying on the side.