Crystal Peak — Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025

Hiked up to Crystal Peak this morning, starting up the trail at just before 5:30 AM. Only two cars parked at the trailhead, and temps were in the upper 50s. Warm enough for the bugs to stir as I passed through the lower switchbacks under headlamp power. The trail as usual for this time of year is very dry and dusty. Saw some nice peek-a-boo views of Rainier through the trees in alpenglow light. By the time I got to the end of the long southbound traverse, the wind had really picked up, which negated all of the bug activity below. Surprisingly, lots of wildflowers in spots on the shorter northern traverse, with a lot of Aster and Paintbrush still blooming. Views to the south were pretty good, with Adams, Hood and St. Helens all clearly visible. The views north were pretty smoky, and I could not see Baker or Glacier Peak today. Saw no hikers on the way up, and only a small handful on the Crystal Peak trail, and then a few more people after the trail junction back down to the car. No critter sightings today with the exception of a few Clark’s Nutcrackers and the usual Juncos and such. A definite hint of smoke as I started in the dark. Another great hike on one of my favorite trails at Rainier.