Pacific Crest Trail

In early summer, I stayed a few days at rustic Whistlin’ Jack’s Lodge. It provides easy access to the William O. Douglas Wilderness and Mt. Rainier National Park.

On the second morning of my stay, I drove to the Pacific Crest Trailhead at the summit of 5,340-foot Chinook Pass. It was a beautiful morning, and I had plenty of company. Although many of the other hikers were backpackers expecting to stay overnight or a few days on one of the most famous trails in the country.

I was heading south on the PCT into the William O. Douglas Wilderness. After hiking by Naches Peak, I would turn west on a trail around the Peak, passing by Tipsoo Lake before returning to the trailhead. I had not done this hike before and was looking forward to it. It has the reputation for being one of the most scenic hikes in the Cascade Mountains and having a superb wildflower show.

Naches Peak

I wasn’t disappointed. There were wildflowers galore and several small lakes along the way. As the trail curved around to the west side of Naches Peak, Mt. Rainier dominated the scene. Beside a small lake along the trail, a friendly gray jay almost landed on my hand. The little pond also provided a nice reflection of Mt. Rainier.

Nearing the end of the loop hike, I slowed down and took my time. Coming over a rise where the PCT crossed above the highway on a wooden bridge, I had a grand view to the east of peaks above the American River’s deep canyon. That would be my destination the following day.

There are many great hikes in the William O. Douglas Wilderness. Two of my favorites are Tumac Mountain and Mt. Aix. (See my posts: A Wonderful Hike in the William O. Douglas Wilderness and Bucket List of Alpine Hikes in the Pacific Northwest #7) 

When I returned to Whistlin’ Jack’s Lodge, they were setting up for an event with a live band. The band was actually pretty good, and the event ended by 9 p.m. I was able to get a good night’s sleep in preparation of one more day of hiking.