Mount Rainier, Mowich Lake Overnighter

It’s been tougher than expected sharing our adventures as we rarely find ourselves parked in front of a computer long enough! We are also currently at a stage in our lives that we are balancing between two jobs and school averaging a 4 hour commute apart. Finding the time to get outside together has become an art. Luckily, we were able to get out on a quick overnighter last weekend.

  Neither of us have spent significant time in Mount Rainier National Park. Quade has climbed it and Stefani has day hiked a few times, so it was a bit special to spend some time around the big mountain together for the first time.

We loaded up the dual sport and squeezed on for the ride down to Rainier. Two people and loaded backpacks made the bike ride…cozy. 😉

After checking in with a super friendly and helpful ranger at the Carbon River Ranger Station, we made our way to Mowich Lake. A crowded spot between multiple trailheads along with the WT passing through, we got there late enough in the day that some of the crowds were already starting to head home.

The trail is gradual, with steps built in steeper sections. A short side trip a few miles in to Spray Falls is a must. It adds less than a quarter mile to your hike, but the reward of this powerful waterfall is beyond worth it. Just a couple miles farther is Spray Park. The fall colors have already started moving in, framing the mountain in soft reds and oranges.

We continued along the trail, admiring a ridgeline off towards the mountain. Choosing to venture off to a secluded area near Seattle Park was worth it. We followed an old forgotten path littered with fresh goat and bear tracks, although we were never graced with their presence.

Camp for the night was perfect. An unobstructed view of the mountain on one side, picture perfect sunset on the other and a crystal clear tarn at our disposal. Best of all, we were secluded from anyone else, something we didn’t think was possible at such a popular park.

  After some unfortunate snafus (burning Quade with scalding mash potatoes) we enjoyed a marvelous sunset. With clear skies we opted to go fly-less and star gazed until sleep overtook us.

With some injuries to attend to we did not complete our intended loop, but returned back through Spray Park. Once back at the bike, a bear moseyed down the trail along the lake shore. Savoring our last minute wildlife encounter we loaded up the bike for our journey home.

Although it wasn’t the longest or most intense trip we’ve had, it was truly special to spend time together under the glow of Mount Rainier. Until next time, when we get the chance to explore more of what MRNP has to offer!