14.05 Granite Mountain: Strenuous, challenging, over 3,800 feet climb...always rewarding.
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 ...