Sweet views of Rainier, secret swimming holes, bear-grass and other cool wildflowers

After yesterday's hike up to Camp Muir, we decided to keep today mellow. We hiked the Naches Peak Loop and added Dewey Lake for a total of 7+ miles. Part of this hike was on the Pacific Crest Trail. The trailhead for the hike was near the top of Chinook Pass which is 5430ft. 

Views of Mt Rainier as we drove to the trailhead

As with many of our WA hikes so far, the trailhead starts at elevation. Right from the beginning of the hike, there were lots of alpine flowers and sweet views of mountains (including Rainier). We decided to add a little bit extra to the Loop by tacking on Dewey Lake which is a pristine alpine lake with blue-green water.

A bridge for the Pacific Crest Trail hikers to cross the highway

Wildflowers and waterfalls are abundant in Washington

Dewey Lake

WA alpine lakes have such a beautiful color to them

A picturesque spot to have a little snack break

Dan got really comfortable

The trees are so straight, tall, and covered with lichen

Bear-grass: it smells divine

An unfinished bridge - none of the boards were nailed down

Dewey Lake in the distance

After we wrapped up the hike, we were quite toasty as it was another 100+ degree day, so we considered our options for cooling down. Swimming holes were at the top of the list. I spotted a pull-off that had one car and seemed to be near a creek. So, we pulled the car off to explore. Turns out that we hit the jackpot for a perfect swimming hole. The water was inviting, even though it was freaking cold.

This was a super big tree

We found another swimming hole down a different path. This one had some big jumps (with a longer swim in water with a current)

Once back at the motel again in the early afternoon, Dan jumped into bed. I went to the small supermarket and got us pre-made salads and cup of noodle. We know how to live large. In the evening, dinner was only for me (Kara) because Dan didn't want to eat a big dinner, then get up early (3:15am), and have his tummy be all out of whack. I wolfed down my fajita and was in bed before 9.