Camp Muir via Skyline Trailhead

Pack your sunglasses because this is one snowy hike! Camp Muir is a perfect camping or extended day hike destination for anyone who wants to experience the enchantment of Mount Rainier without committing to the summit. Starting at the Paradise trailhead at almost 4700 feet up, a steep and extremely populated trail during the summertime takes you up to Pebble Creek, where the snow trek officially begins.

There's a lot of wildlife around the trail. I spotted a family of dear and a whole lot of marmots, who come out to sunbathe during the summer months. You might also notice the mountains letting out a deafening moan; a sign of glacial movement. Don't let this scare you like it scared me!

The relentless slope brings you to Camp Muir at around 10,100 feet. Most of the elevation gain involved in this hike is climbing up snow. I was able to make it to camp in some non-waterproof trail shoes, but it was pretty brutal on my feet; definitely not recommended.

Make sure to pack plenty of water and a lunch and insulation layers as the wind can get harsh at the top. The views are breathtaking; you can see Mount. St. Helens, Mount. Adams, and Mount. Hood all very clearly above the Tatoosh Mountain Range. The highlight of this trip, however, was glissading down the snow on the trash bags we brought on our way back. There are literal tracks from where people have sled down repeatedly and have carved out almost half-pipe lanes. What a fantastic end to an adventure!