This is the next installment of our Alpine hiking experiance in Western Washington. This hike is on Mt. Rainier, called Comet Falls, just a little West of the Skyline trail.

Comet Falls trailhead is located on the drive up to Paradise from the West entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park. Parking is pretty limited at the trailhead, so on busy weekends you will want to get there early. The hike itself is pretty steep and the view not all that good, compared to the Skyline trail, until you get up towards the end at the top. Once at the end, you are surrounded by alpine meadows, and a great view of the Cascades and of course Mt. Rainier.

Near the end of the trail, about 1/4 mile from the end, was a small spur trail that went off to the East. We walked down that trail and it ended about 150 yards from the main trail. But there was a nice little open area with some logs to sit on and surrounded by scrub fir trees. We set there took in the fresh air, enjoyed the view, all the while sipping some Cabernet and eating some cheese.

A very nice hike, rewards with a good workout and wonderful scenery, even though you have to wait until the end to see much.

There is a review of the hike here. The reviewer says the hike is 4 miles round trip, I believe it's closer to 6 miles round trip. Some more info here, and here.