Mt. Rainier & Crystal Mountain Lodging

It’s Wildflower Time

Wildflowers are popping up everywhere, and now’s the perfect time for a getaway. We have had somewhat of a wet and cool start to the summer but the sun is coming out, so you’ll see lots of flowers everywhere – and more come out every day. Here are some of the best spots for viewing wildflowers right now (as of July 19, 2019):

Crystal Mountain:

There are literally flowers everywhere! Since Crystal is in the national forest, it’s people & dog-friendly — and the Mt. Rainier Gondola is even dog-friendly during the summer!

Tipsoo Lake/Naches Peak:

Tipsoo Lake has an easy walk around the lake (less than a mile) and Naches Peak is a wonderful 3-4 mile hike that has amazing wildflowers and a fabulous touch into the surrounding wilderness areas without having to venture too far. We suggest a “clockwise” route on the loop for nice vies of Mt. Rainier on the latter portion of the hike.

Crystal Lakes Trail:

The Crystal Lakes Trail between lower Crystal Lake and upper Crystal Lake has incredible flowers. It’s a workout, but this is a wonderful hike that you will be hard to find more beautiful wildflowers in this spectacular high mountain area. Take a dip in Upper Crystal lake for a quick refresh!

Grand Park via Lake Eleanor:

Lupine, Indian paintbrush and more. Reports from this weekend indicate very few bugs, but as the summer progresses, make sure to go early in the day or bring spray.

Sheep Lake:

This trail is great for early wildflowers, and they’re just now starting to pop! Because this trail is in the national forest, it’s people & dog-friendly.

Dege Peak:

Some nice blooms along the trail, especially Indian Paintbrush.

Berkeley Park:

Some gorgeous displays, especially lupine and Indian paintbrush.

Glacier Basin:

Gorgeous flowers as you enter the sunny area past the intersection for the trail up to Burroughs Mountain, and in the basin.

We always recommend the Washington Trails Association website for recent trip reports, as hikers report what they see. Visit wta.org and enter the hike you’re considering. Please consider donating or joining their organization. They are a great resource for all of us!