Van Trump Trail and Comet Falls - Mt. Rainier!
Details
***NOTE: We'll meet at Green Lake P&R this time, not Wilburton***
This weekend I'm excited to make our first trip of the season out to Mt. Rainier! We will hike out-and-back to Van Trump Park and Comet Falls, and on the way we'll see summer wildflowers, some of the local fauna, Blucher Falls, and a number of smaller waterfalls. From the top we'll have spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St Helens.
The last mile of the hike is steep, so hiking poles are recommended.
We'll be making friends, staying fit, being polite and having fun!
We will first meet at Green Lake P&R. Carpooling from there is encouraged but you are also welcome to meet us at Comet Falls & Van Trump Park Trailhead (46.778, -121.787).
Hike Info
Difficulty: Hard
Length: ~8 miles
Elevation Gain: ~3300 feet
Highest Elevation: ~5900 feet
Location: Mt. Rainier, Paradise section
Road: All highway
Parking Permit
National Park Pass, see https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes
Attendance
We try to keep our group size to around a dozen as a courtesy to other hikers on the trail, and to reduce crowds and cars in the parking lot. The Going list may have a larger number to accommodate no-shows.
Folks on the Wait list may not attend until they are moved to the Going list. When folks drop from the Going list, people are added from the Wait list.
Carpooling
We will limit total attendees while drivers are selected from the Wait list. Drivers will be placed first as Going, and then we will fill with passengers as space allows, so everyone who comes to the P&R has a ride to the trail.
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse a minimum of $50 if one passenger, $30 for two passengers, and $20 for three passengers. Cash, Venmo, or Zelle.
What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & lunch
Sun protection
Bug spray
Ten hiking essentials
Schedule
7:00 am: Meet at the Green Lake P&R (OK to bring morning coffee and breakfast).
7:10 am: Drive to trailhead
~ 9:30 am: Arrive at trailhead
~ 6-7 hours of hiking with stops for food, photos
~ 4:30 pm: Back at trailhead
-> Stop for food / coffee on way back (optional)
~ 7:00 pm: Arrive back at Green Lake P&R (later if stopping)
Attendees: Be sure to update your status if things change so others can attend.
Disclaimer: When you RSVP and attend this hike you are accepting that you are fully aware that you are responsible for your own safety. You agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the hike host from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from any injury or damage. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.