I keep forgetting that June does not mean “snow-free” in these parts.

Jae and I wanted to hike somewhere around Mt. Rainier. I’m in the process of moving (to Denmark!) and who knows when I’ll be back to hike around here again…

One recommendation was Snow Lake (not to be confused with the other Snow Lake near Snoqualmie Pass). It’s not super high up (starts at around 4,555 ft), but it was still completely snowed in.

We were not prepared for snow, but bravely (or perhaps foolishly) decided that since we drove more than two hours to get here, we might as well venture on.

The hike starts off very steep. I have no idea what it’s like in the summer, when all the snow is melted and there is an actual path to follow. In the snow we were following someone else’s steps.

It meanders through wide spread meadows and near several little ponds.

The day was cloudy in the morning and we were hoping for a burn off of clouds later on. The burn off never quite manifested. It would clear up for a little while and then the clouds would gather again. Occasionally we’d catch a glimpse of Mt. Rainier, but the mountain never fully came out that day.

Once the snow is gone, I’m sure this will be a very pleasant and easy hike. The terrain goes up and down. In the snow it was pretty difficult at times, but in the summer I’d think that this is a good hike to bring your kids on. But not your dog! No dogs allowed at Mt. Rainier National Park.

The lake is still mostly covered in snow (which explains its name). I’m not even sure how big it is once the snow is gone.

Numerous springs along the way peek out from underneath the snow.

A neon blue water near the lake. Reminded me of the Blue Lagoon!

Snow Lake is off the road to Paradise, inside the Mt. Rainier National Park. You do have to pay to enter the park ($25), but it’s well worth it.

2.6 hiking miles, 775 ft of elevation

YTD Hiking Miles: 12.6