Scott and I visited Picture Lake and Mount Shuksan a couple of years ago in the fall and the views were stunning. Jagged mountain peaks surrounded by vivid red and gold foliage. A clear lake with a perfect reflection. It was spectacular. Take a look at the banner on our web site’s home page and you’ll see what I mean.

Ever since then, I’ve wanted to go back in the winter. I’ve wanted to see what these gorgeous, jagged peaks would look like covered in snow and surrounded by blue sky.

I was staring at the stunning Mount Shuksan perfectly reflected in Picture Lake when I realized that the battery in my camera was nearly depleted, and I didn’t have a backup.

One of my favorite places to eat breakfast is at Reflection Lake in Mount Rainier National Park.

On this particular morning, I had made the trip by myself in the middle of the week hoping to see some fall color and of course – Mount Rainier.  The skies were clear blue, and it was going to be a beautiful day.

I love early morning light on the mountain. That first hour or two following sunrise is my favorite. The lighting is beautiful, and really shows the mountain off in a very special way.

It was a beautiful morning. The sun was out and the mountain was glorious with fresh snow against clear bule skies. What a great day for a hike at the mountain!

We approached the lake in the early morning. It was quiet and not many were out and about yet. It was beautiful! Mount Adams was still surrounded by the morning haze, but the lake was clear and calm.

We discovered Takhlakh Lake last year and have been looking forward to returning ever since.

The first time I saw the alpine meadows in full bloom up at Mount Rainier was a complete accident. Scott and I decided to hike the skyline loop - a gorgeous 6-mile loop starting at Paradise. I couldn’t believe my eyes! You couldn’t design a garden more perfectly if you tried. It was just stunning!

Hiking to Fire Lookouts in Washington – High Rock Lookout

Wow! What a view! After 1.6 miles with a 1635 ft elevation gain, we had finally reached the top. The scene before us was amazing!

Another day to adventure! We were ready to move further along the Cascade Loop.