This was a super fun hike. It took us about 3.5 hours and we took about 200 photos and also stopped to snack a couple of times. We did it clockwise and the first 1.5-2 miles is a very steady and sometimes steep climb. Adjust your pace to your fitness level and you can do it. There are some loose rock/sandy parts. The are some small tricky footing parts as you descend but these are literally only a couple steps. The view of the top of Rainier is amazing and beautiful from every vantage this hike gives you. The meadows are equally spectacular with a babbling brook running through it. Definite must do if you are in the area and have the time.
oh the beauty of this hike is at the top , getting up is a rough time if you haven't experience and zeal , seeing the beauty on a clear day , the small creeks and falls and animals made getting to the top a priority , the absolute beauty and scenery were fantastic , the loop down was filled with beautiful colors of blooming flowers that made you feel like you were in heaven ....to say this hike is great is the truth . do it if you have the stamina you will feel blessed if it is sunny out !
We hiked the Skyline Trail to Panorama Point, then continued the loop but came down the Golden Gate Trail. With a few detours, our route was 5.2 miles, and not difficult. The fog lifted as we were climbing and the views were fantastic. We started early (8:30 AM) and didn't run into too many people going up, but there were a lot more coming up as we descended. Highly recommend this trail, but strongly suggest that you start early.
My wife and I are not avid hikers at best. When I picked this trail weeks prior to our visit we assumed it would be somewhat moderate. We stayed at the National Park Inn and were able to be at the trailhead quite early in the morning. My wife has a bad back and neck but she insisted we push on and not change our plans for this hike. We made it in 5 hours and were glad we did, we went at our own pace and enjoyed some of the most outstanding views ever seen, the weather was sunny and hot but very clear. One of the best times we have shared together.
You feel here like you entered a paradise. Meadows blooming constantly during entire summer . Small creeks and falls. Marmots crossing your path, wanting to get to know you ( or wanting some treats; don't give them any though). A lot of different birds. The trail is beautiful even though we were not able to see Mt Rainier from here because clods/fog over it was too thick.
