Seattle boasts some of America’s most spectacular mountain and lake landscapes. Rich in grand natural parks, idyllic waterfalls, relaxing hot springs, and panoramic ski slopes, the area is a favorite spot for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. There are many different mountains and trails to enjoy unparalleled adventures in this Pacific Northwest haven, but some stand out among them as offering the most unforgettable experiences for lovers of the great outdoors and adventure sports.
Crown Point/Crystal Mountain
Ideal for a winter-time excursion, Crown Point is located in the area of the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort. The fact that it is close to a ski area ensures that the roads to this peak are usually in good condition. When compared to other Cascades` peaks, Crown Point is rather accessible. At 6500 feet, the summit of Crown Point offers magnificent views of giant Mount Rainier and other nearby mountains.
Crown Point can be found along the Bear Gap to Bullion Basin Trail. This moderate hiking trail touches upon scenic points like Gold Hills, and Blue Bell Pass. The trail section connecting Crown Point and Pickhandle Gap offers some of the best views down from the open slope.
On the other hand, Crystal Mountain has been rated the 7th best ski resort in all of North America. With some fabulous expert runs and over 1,000 acres of skiable backcountry areas, the area offers many winter sports possibilities, including snowshoeing and snowboarding. There are several mountain-biking trails available as well.
Teneriffe Falls (Kamikaze Falls)
The hike up the spectacular formation once known as Kamikaze falls is considered easy to moderate. It is an ideal hike for the Springtime, as this is the best time to enjoy the waterfall flowing in full volumen. Breathtaking views of the Snoqualmie valley and the beautiful nearby peaks complete the scene. As there is only a few parking spots at the trailhead, this hike is guaranteed to be quiet.
The trail goes past forests, fish-bearing streams, panoramic points, and, of course, the magnificent Teneriffe Falls. At certain points steep and rather thrilling, this hike requires sturdy shoes or boots, as there is abundant loose rock along the way. After three miles of walking, you will reach a 2370-feet peak.
Mount Rainier
Once known as Tahoma or “Great Snowy Peak,” a name given by the Yakima Indians, Mount Rainier takes its name from a famous British Navy Admiral. The first recorded ascent to the summit took place in 1870. Since 1899, the area is a National Park that spans across over 235,000 acres, including 35 miles of glaciers that cover the mountain. There are 25 distinct glaciers on Mount Rainier.
Mount Rainier is actually an inactive volcano as well as the highest peak in the the continental United States. The mountain features trails of varying difficulty, some of which are fit to provide exciting challenges for the expert mountaineer. The most popular climbing routes are the Disappointment Cleaver and the Emmons Glacier. Over 10,000 every year attempt to get to the top of Mount Rainier. There is currently a climbing fee of USD 30 to climb Mount Rainier, which is payable once a year.
Top-rated trails on Mount Rainier include the Skyline Trail, which takes you up 1,400 feet along a 5-mile path from Paradise to Panorama Point and ends with a descent into Paradise Valley and Myrtle Falls. The Grove of the Patriarchs hike is also a favorite, with its myriad of giant, 1000-year old trees and a scenic suspension bridge that hangs over the forest.
Seattle and its surroundings offer some of the most exciting climbs and hikes all over the US. Whether you are interested in fishing, walking among glaciers, snowboarding, skiing or rock climbing, the Cascades mountain range surely has something spectacular to offer you. Waterfalls in the Springtime or ski slopes in the winter-time, beauty is never scarce across this region.
