Wildflower hikes
Mazama Ridge – Paradise Glacier
In Wildflower Wonders, The 50 Best Wildflower Sites in the World (Gibbons, 2011) the author declared the astonishing display of flowers at Mazama Ridge as possibly the most flowery place in the world. Now, you decide! The 6.4 mile RT route heads straight toward the mountain from Reflection Lakes and transcends the forest, subalpine and alpine zones.
Starting point: Stevens Canyon Road
Area map number: 5
The hike begins at the Reflection Lakes parking area alongside the Stevens Canyon Road which is approximately 16 miles from the Nisqually entrance. Head east along the north side of the road which parallels the Wonderland Trail. Look for the trail at the east end of the parking area. Go a short distance to the junction, stay left on to the Lakes Trail. Parking is usually not a problem except possibly in the afternoons in the height of the tourist season.
As always, check conditions before setting out!
Get more important wildflower hiking information
Read about being prepared for Mount Rainier Hiking
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