Began our hike at 11:20 AM on Friday. Beautiful 53F day with sunny skies and a few scattered clouds. The parking lot was mostly full when we arrived but there were a a handful of open spots. The trail is well-maintained, with clear markings and no overgrown places. We saw several trail runners out during our ascent, and passed 4-6 groups of backpackers ascending during our return. Though this is not a technical or particularly strenuous hike at any given point, do not underestimate the length. You'll be thankful to have brought along plenty of food, water, and actual hiking shoes/boots to ease the time on your feet.
There are vivid fall colors along the trail now, especially after the first ~4 miles once you begin ascending out of the denser forest and along the rockier switchbacks. Still a few berries on the vines though they looked like they're a week or two past their season. Great views of Mt. Rainier and other surrounding peaks as always.
~6 hours for 12.6 mi and 2,887 ft of elevation gain roundtrip, including a 25-minute break at the Katwalk.
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