Crystal Lakes

The first 1.5 miles of trail climbs through dense forest on a series of switchbacks. Along this portion of the hike, you'll have the opportunity for good views of Mount Rainier until it's eclipsed by Crystal Peak. The next mile of trail leads to the forested Lower Crystal Lake, the smaller of the two lakes. This is a serene setting for a break before continuing to Upper Crystal Lake. The lovely open basin containing Upper Crystal Lake lies just 0.5 mile beyond the lower lake. During the summer, wildflowers abound in the meadows around the lake. From this point, Crystal Peak and its craggy ridges dominate the skyline around the lake.A side trip to Crystal Peak (five miles round-trip) is well worth the effort. On a clear day five volcanoes can be seen from this 6615' former fire lookout site. Start early in the day if you plan on venturing to the peak as the trail traverses a shadeless south-facing slope which can be very hot and dry during summer.