We started the day heading to Margaret Lake but the road to trailhead was impassable due to snow on the road.
The road to Mt Catherine was rough with pot holes and ruts but passable. We were in an all wheel Lexus SUV. The trail wasn't well marked due to snow cover. There is a trail post. To begin the hike you will cross a snowfield that is well tracked. A few blow down trees on the trail but easy to navigate. We had poles but not spikes or treads and did fine. But certainly appreciated the poles. About half the trail is free of snow, the middle. Be sure to pay attention to the tracks to follow. Can easily veer off course of the trail. The last half mile up to the summit is snow covered, soft and melting. Look for the tracks. The summit was breath taking. 360° views. Mt. Rainier was big and glorious. A few small biting black flies annoyed us while we snacked. Be careful on the trek down...the snow is slick.
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