Wildflowers?

[jules]

Hiked through Grand Park in the northern part of MRNP a few weeks ago, it was spectacular then, probably even better now. PM me if you want more details.

jules

[allthumbs]

A little off the beaten path of Rainier, but I stumbled across this mysterious flower the other day while taking a walk in the woods. What the hell is it?

 

[Dru]

Looks like a purple cone - must be purple coneflower aka echinacea. I better have me some of that as I feel a cold comin' on.

[Chongo]

I've seen a lot of those near Muir Hut.

[allthumbs]

Don't tell Soct'teryx

[ILuvAliens]

That there's mountain medicine.

[Ned_Flanders]

Any recommendations for a day trip to Rainier where there are the most wildflowers growing? Thanks.

[allthumbs]

Mount Rainiers wildflower meadows are found at elevations between 4,000 and 6,500 feet above sea level throughout the park.

[mattp]

I don't know about where to find the "most" flowers but (1) Paradise is where you go if the weather is iffy and you're bringing somebody like your grandma who wants to look at display cases with old photographs and a stuffed Jim Whitaker doll (2)Sunrise has better views of the mountain and Borroughs Mountain is great for an easy walk with good views and close-up encounters with snaffelhunda, and (3) Mowich Lake has some very good hikes with spectacular views of the mountain (Tolmie Peak for an easier hike and Spray Park if you want to venture further afield) but there is no concession stand at Mowich Lake. All three have plenty of alpine meadows and you'll find flowers in bloom as soon as you get out of the car.