Naches Peak Loop...

One of my favorite hikes is the Naches Peak Loop.  It's a hike the whole family can do easily and it has everything you look for in a good hike.  There are little streams, water falls (although they were just trickles right now), lakes, alpine meadows, wildflowers in abundance and of course gorgeous views of the mountains especially my favorite mountain, Mt. Rainier.  And not to mention it is a relatively flat 4 mile loop that makes it perfect for Daniel's little legs. 

And yes, this was the hike where I sprained my ankle, badly.  This time last year the spot in the picture was completely covered in snow with a little stream flowing under the snow where Rue is.  Knowing much better, I wasn't paying attention and walked right over the creek and down I went spraining the inside and outside of my ankle.  Rue had all kinds of teasing remarks for me this time.  Thankfully no sprained ankles this year.

Rue couldn't resist and jumped into this little lake.  It was a bit cold.

Dasiy's friend Ciara joined us.  Daniel wanted to hold her hand a lot and she was very sweet to let him.  

Mt. Rainier!

 

I am hoping to get in at least one more hike this season.  I'd love to do another big one with just Rue and me.  I have a couple ideas of where I would like to go. 

It rained a few days ago and I have to say it did feel nice and cozy and I felt like I should be baking some pumpkin bread.  It's back to being sunny and even though it's warm the air feels different and the sun isn't quite so intense, the mornings are starting to be more crisp.  

Now I'm off to bake some cookies for my hubby's little camping trip he is doing with some guys from work.  They are going to camp at Mt. Rainier for a night and do an epic guy hike.  I am a little jealous but the guys do need their guy time and my Gramma is visiting from LA right now and I want to spend as much time with her as I can while she is here.  She is going to treat us to a trip to the zoo so you can be sure I will have a zoo post coming up soon!  :)