I’ve hiked out of Chinook Pass along Highway 410 many times, up to Sheep Lake and Sourdough Gap. I’ve also done the steep hike up to Crystal Lakes many times, but have never connected the two. A good friend and I had a wonderful hike from Chinook Pass to Sheep Lake, up to Sourdough Gap, and to the ridge above Crystal Lakes. Stunning! I’m not sure why I’ve never accessed it this way before, but so glad we did, and it was a perfect way to celebrate my friend’s birthday.
Once we crested the trail looking down on Crystal Lakes, we found a wonderful lunch spot to sit and relax. Just a short hike on from there to the right brings incredible views of Upper Crystal Lake and Mt. Rainier. The kind of view that makes your jaw drop. I’m so thankful for good friends, and for having places like this to go to in order to connect back to what really matters. My recent favorite phrase is: Lose Reception, Gain Perspective. This is one of those places.
It was a 4-volcano day with Rainier up close, and further off Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, and way into Oregon Mt. Hood.
