Spray Park, Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier above Spray Park at sunset.

Spray Park is probably my favorite park at Mount Rainier.  There is so much to do and see.  For many people, the meadows and tarns down low are the main attraction. Others like to follow the trail to its high point for massive views far and wide, while looking down on the beautiful meadows of Seattle Park below.  Some wish to explore even higher and scramble up Echo Peak or Observation Rock (hey, why not both!).

Even the hike to the park can done in multiple ways.  While for most the Spray Park Trail is the most obvious choice (and shortest).  Others find the route over Knapsack Pass more challenging and extremely scenic.  This route takes off from an unsigned trail near the ranger cabin, climbs up to the pass below Mother Mountain (a fun side trip), descends into Seattle Park, ascends into the upper reaches of Spray Park, then descends through the park, past Spray Falls and back to the parking lot for a one-way loop.

Want a more challenging option?  Entertain a much longer loop by hiking to Ipsut Pass, descending down to the Wonderland Trail along the Carbon River, follow it upriver to Carbon River Camp and a junction, turning right up Cataract Creek and follow it up below Echo Cliffs to Seattle Park, up to Spray Park and descend back to the parking lot.  This trip is a long day with much elevation change and is typically done for the physical challenge it presents.  It can also be done in reverse.

This image was taken during one of the many sunsets I have shot from Spray Park.  There is no camping in the park, so one must either get a permit to camp at Eagle's Roost or do what I do - hike out with headlamp.  I strongly recommend trekking poles and extra batteries if considering this option.  There are many opportunities to turn an ankle on the way out if not careful.  Spoken from experience!

I'm happy to share that this image recently appeared in a well-known U.S. magazine.  So I guess the efforts to go get it are all made worthwhile!

To view this and more images from Mount Rainier National Park, please feel free to visit my Mount Rainier Gallery.

As always, thanks for looking.  I hope to see you on the trail!