Henskin Lake — Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023

We are happy to be in Rainier country for a few days of hiking, and took this trail as a warmup after driving from Bellingham for four hours. Leaving from the Crystal Mountain Ski area, we took the Silver Creek trail to Henskin Lake, a 6 mile RT jaunt. The first .3 miles is a steep, rocky road bed, which felt almost exhilarating after our drive. Wildflowers were abloom in the meadow that came after, including paintbrush, pearly everlasting, some lupine, and a few columbine, also penstemon in places. From this meadowy stretch, there are nice views of the ski slopes and foothills, with shadows cast by the clouds. Henskin is another couple miles from the meadow, and though you gain 1000 feet and the trail is dry and scrabbly in places, it feels like an easy-ish hike-- if you're used to hiking. The lake was lovely today, peaceful, green. Saw only one group of 5, a family visiting from Israel. The man was downright ecstatic at how beautiful the lake was, throwing up his hands and laughing in glee. He and a young son plunged in and screeched with joy, the water colder, I'm sure , than anything at home. We live in an amazing place,  indeed. Happy and safe hiking, Everyone!