Grand Park via Lake Eleanor

 Hiked up to Grand Park in Mt Rainier National Park via Lake Eleanor today. The trailhead starts 10 miles up FSR 73 (off of Hwy 410) outside of the park. We also hiked a short distance on the Northern Loop Trail for a round trip hike of 9.5 miles and 1,200 ft gain
The trail starts in the forest and after 1 mile, the trail goes by Lake Eleanor and continues through the forest.






About 1/2 mile further along, the trail goes through a smaller meadow with a peek a boo view of Mt Rainier.

 There is a pond in this meadow with lupine, shooting stars and other wildflowers in bloom.

 The trail continues through the forest, passing by a stream that was lined with avalanche lilies today.

 First glimpse of Grand Park from the northern edge

 Better views of Mt Rainier as we continue south through Grand Park

 Lupine and buttercups along the trail

Wide angle view partway down Grand Park: Mt Fremont, First and Second Burroughs, Little Tahoma, Skyscrapper Peak, Third Burroughs, Steamboat Prow and Mt Rainier

Paintbrush beginning to bloom

 At the southern end of Grand Park, the mountain begins to disappear behind the trees.

 Phlox and dandelions, with a view of Little Tahoma

 When we reached the junction with the Northern Loop Trail, we turned right and hiked 0.4 miles down this section.

 We were rewarded with an open view of Mt Rainier

We enjoyed the views overlooking the West Fork of the White River coming off of the Winthrop Glacier.

 Wonderful spot for a lunch break before heading back.

Afternoon light on Lake Eleanor

some of the wildflowers we saw along the trail today: