Sheep Lake to Sourdough Gap — Friday, Aug. 8, 2008

Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410

This was my third hike on this lovely trail. As always, we were not disappointed. The wildflowers were abundant but still not at their peak; another week or two and it will be spectacular! We saw lots of blue lupine, orange and pink paintbrush, elephant heads, buckwheat, tiger lilies, purple asters, etc. etc. The sky threatened rain and it was quite windy up at the gap, but no drops fell until we began driving home. The hike up to Sheep Lake is quite easy and well worth the effort, even if one decides not to go up to the gap. There were lots of campers at the lake and lots of dogs -- many not on leash. We saw the ""calling cards"" of horses on the trail too but never saw the horses. A large marmot posed warily for a photo. No pesky bugs! Just another wonderful day in the mountains!