Looking for an opportunity to dust off your snowshoes or rent a pair to explore the trails at Mt. Rainier National Park? Try the trail from Narada Falls to Reflection Lakes. For beginners, once you make the moderate climb from the falls parking area to the ridge above, it's easy going all the way to Reflection Lakes. For those with moderate skills who want more distance and challenge, head up along Mazama Ridge to Paradise (2.5 miles one way), or continue past Reflection Lakes down to Louise Lake or even further to Stevens Canyon. For those seeking much greater challenge, pack your tent and overnight gear in a sled and drag it to your basecamp at Reflection Lakes before making the climb the next morning to several peaks above, including Pinnacle Peak that stands sentinel over the lakes. Plenty of space on the trails for those on snowshoes and cross country skis too. With a little sun in the forecast, we headed up this past Saturday. Spectacular views come early.
There was little sun but just enough to make for clear vistas. Mt. Rainier and Paradise were fully enshrouded in clouds, making the trail to Reflection Lakes a wise choice on this day.
Lots of people on the trail on a weekend day but it didn't really seem crowded. So much open space here.
The lakes are frozen and snow covered now but still so pretty.
Judy and I couldn't have chosen a better way to celebrate our 51st anniversary. A child bride as you can see.
When you break out lunch, be prepared for the Gray Jays who hang out up here even during the winter seeking to mooch food from visitors. They are particularly bold right now.
Louise Lake is one of those best kept secrets. Very large and beautiful even when the clouds over the mountain spoil views of Mt. Rainier.
Wonderful snowshoe/ski trip offering as little or as much challenge as you are up for.