The flowers were many and amazing – plenty of magenta paintbrush mixed in with yellow arnica and lupine in addition to Western pasqueflower in different stages of its life cycle. We came across an amazingly large pile of fresh bear scat – indeed hikers we met had just seen a huge bear in a nearby meadow. The next stretch is a walk through beauty as the trail winds through groves of subalpine trees and sparkling meadows. Past Fairy Pond, the trail climbs through forest and meadows before coming to a junction – here we turned (left) onto the High Lakes trail. We also stopped at “Fairy Pond” – the pond is not designated on the map but is hard to miss – that is also on the right side of the trail. Faraway Rock is to your right and provides an inspirational view of the Tatoosh Peaks, Louise Lake, the Stevens Canyon Road, and its surrounding ridges and valleys. A small stream is crossed (in summer it is just a trickle). Past the lakes, the trail climbs to Faraway Rock on a steep, short trail. Hiking counterclockwise the trail passes between Reflection and Louise Lakes. No two guidebooks agree on exact mileages. On the map, this complex trail system is crammed together and can be confusing – if you do get confused, follow the signs. Keep in mind that while this loop is short there are many trail junctions (signed) that provide longer options. You may find it hard to believe today that these quiet lakes were once jumping with activity during the Depression, there was a small store on the lakeshore and rental boats. If you want to fish, don’t despair – nearby Louise Lake is open for fishing and wading too. Lakes such as these are easily loved to death. Wading and swimming are also prohibited at Reflection Lakes and some of the shoreline access is closed for meadow restoration. Fishing is prohibited but a few trout have survived and according to park rangers we met, they live on a diet of caddisflies, stoneflies, midges, and Mayflies. No, Reflection Lakes are closed waters but don’t be surprised to see a trout jump at Reflection Lake – the lakes were stocked with trout years ago. By mid-September, there should also be some fall color framing these picture-perfect lakes. In late August the lake was bordered with rosy spirea, fireweed, and lupine. After you park, drop down to the lake to find the trail (you can hike the loop in either direction). Like most trails at Mount Rainier when heading to Reflection Lakes, you’ll need an early start to find a parking place on the Stevens Canyon Road – this trailhead also that provides access to Pinnacle and Plummer peaks, another popular hike. Many consider this area to be the park at its best - colorful blooms, enchanting animal life, and scenic, awe-inspiring beauty of mountain peaks and alpine lakes. In summer, the lakes are bordered with wildflowers and come autumn, they are a mirror of fall color. Summer and fall, sunrise and sunset, it is perhaps the single most photographed view for both budding and experienced photographers, who return again and again. Rainier in the park can be found at Reflection Lakes. Road Conditions Get the latest updates on road conditions throughout the Mt.NOAA Weather Forecast for Mount Rainier. This Quest will help you experience the wonder and pristine scenery of this snowy world.
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