(Smoky) Crystal Lakes

The heavy smoke blanketing most of Washington contributed to Tom and Brian cancelling their backpacking plans. But, they opted for a modest dayhike to Crystal Lakes in Mt Rainier National Park to get out in the hills for some exercise. The trail up through the forest was dry and dusty, and the air felt thick. Once past the turnoff to the lower lake, the flower count started increasing dramatically, distracting us from our work. After a quick bite to eat at the upper lake, we continued up to the pass, and the short traverse to Sourdough Gap. Many, many flowers along the way! Surprisingly, we actually got to see "The Mountain", but it was pretty faint through the smoke. A nice refreshing swim in the upper lake, then back to the car. And not very crowded! A good day out. The area would be super nice in "normal" conditions.