Chinook Pass to Crystal Mountain via the Pacific Crest Trail, Naches Peak Loop — Friday, Jul. 26, 2019

Tipsoo Lake is always so pretty but today was especially nice. We hiked half of the Naches Loop Trail starting across from Tipsoo Lake.The bear grass was blooming in the upper meadows and the other wildflowers had just started so it was a beautiful day to hike! The mountain was out in its full glory and there was almost no mud on the trail.   We stayed on the mountain side of the loop trail and made it as far as the Dewey Lake vista.  Spectacular views of Mt. Rainier and the foot hills.  There were small patches of snow in the higher meadows but none on the trail.  The mosquitoes are out but only bothered us when we stopped.  The trail was very crowded but understandable since we had perfect conditions.