As a conditioner for an upcoming backpacking trip Rachel and I hiked up Granite Mountain which I had done four times previously. At 8.5 miles with 3800' gain it was the hardest hike Rachel had done so far. Though tough the hike offered lots of variety including a forest, a traverse with wide open views and a final climb to the rocky summit. At the top is a fire lookout which was unfortunately closed, but we still got in great views of Rainier, Snoqualmie Pass and a couple alpine lakes. Rachel did great on the hike and was ready for challenge of the upcoming trip.

Granite Mountain Trail

Berries

Granite Mountain Summit

Mount Rainier

Lookout

Under the Lookout

Crystal and Tuscohatchie Lakes

Flowers

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August 9, 2025