The final stretch, climbing the granite rocks, to watchtower above.
Mount Rainier 'leaps' through the clouds, a giant amongst large mountains. However, Granite mountain
commences at only 1,800 feet whereas Paradise is at 5,400 feet, Rainier's base.
A fascinating shape on the opposite side of Rainier. Viewed from peak of Granite Mountain.
In polite circles, the hike is known as a ‘butt-kicker’, a ‘calf-killer’…you get the idea. Nevertheless,
the 3,840 feet climb from 1,800 feet is an incredible hike, what an experience. We have hiked this one
before; it’s a favorite but that does not make it any easier. However, today we followed what appeared
to be a trail we missed previously: the scramble over the rocks towards the end to get to the watchtower
at the top. Over the last mile on the return, it happens when we tire, we began singing on the trail
(not a pleasant sound) which was indicative of our state.
The plan was to hike with Gavin, this being our last day in Bellevue. As a bonus, our nephew Justin would
be joining us. We were set up with a formidable team…it reads nicely but of course, perhaps a little
exaggerated. We were excited to be with the ‘Microsoft Boys’, two of our favorites although we missed
Robbie very much, too. Gavin was a bit off-color and unfortunately wasn’t able to join us. So we set out
with the young Texan who has never seen a hill before, coming from the flat city of Dallas. When he read
the warning signs about bears, we worried a little after looking at the expression on his face. On the
other hand, we were concerned when he put on sandals for the over eight miles round-trip. As much as we
love the young man, we do understand he is a Texan and so we make allowances.
Looking from the peak towards the basin a little way down, snow and water colors very attractive.
Loose granite rocks form three hills before the peak. Jenni's scout on first-third, as gray as the rocks,
left top-side of photo.
Nephew Justin leads Aunt Jenni. Elevation gain at that stage close to 2,800 feet. (Loved the 'boots').
We’ve had three separate short stays in Seattle; before Europe, on our return and after the Mount Rainier
visit. We did go to the synagogue each time. It was an interesting experience. The congregation has a
strong Russian influence, a number of Israelis and other Middle-Eastern members; we think we did spot an
American or two. On one occasion, there was a bar mitzvah. The grandfather spoke emotionally of the
Soviet Regime’s aims to stamp out religion and its effect on the Jews. What's changed?
The north side of Granite Mountain, an abundance of mountains, too.
Another of Rainier, a protruding ghost like image (top), dwarfing the mountains at fore.
Gavin has been a gracious host to his parents and while we could get used to a roof over our heads, it’s
time to move on unless we find another Granite Mountain in the area soon. We thank him and look forward
to seeing our son in San Diego soon. As for Justin who is embarking on a career after completing college
most successfully, we suggest with his next paycheck, he buys a pair of boots. Truth be told, he handled
the difficulties with aplomb.
Taking in beautiful views while sweating in snow and fending off bugs at peak.
Lake and blue Cascades in distance
Washington, thus far, has provided an interesting contrast. Although we may not have seen a wide
enough sample, we notice the distinct contrast between the city people and those in the country. Should
they meet in between, it would be a battle between the ‘yuppies and nerds’ on the one hand and
the ‘hippies, hunters and recluses’ on the other. We wonder where we’d place our editor.
Reaching the hut after great scrambles both ways. Some excitement when 'immovable' rocks proved otherwise.
A pity about the thick clouds surrounding Mount Rainier.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
Nephew Justin and uncle head higher—it's enough already.
During a break in the forest, "Uncle Jeff, I'll do a lot for you...Smell your boots? No, Sir."
Partaking in serious discussion with Prairie Dawn on hair coloring after we returned from Pinnacle Peak.
She is a local tattooist who probably noticed our 'unblemished lily-white'...um brown skin, handing us
her business card saying, "Let's stay in touch."
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