Drove into Mount Ranier today and headed up the mountain. The drive is amongst some very tall pines and so there is only the long green tunnel on the approach. That is until you come into a small opening just before you reach Paradise, then all of a sudden, this massive white form comes into view directly in front of you. I was able to get several good views before reaching the visitors center. Unfortunately for me, I failed to take a picture thinking I would get a better view from there. I was mistaken.
Toured the visitors center reading through the displays and talking to the Rangers about day hikes. Then stepped out to see what I could of the mountain. Here is where I realized I had goofed. There was a nice low-lying layer of clouds blocking the view for the balance of the day.
There are lots of paved trails surrounding Paradise and the sub-alpine meadow at the base of the mountain. Spent a couple of hours wandering about the meadow and taking lots of wildflower pictures. I will identify below those flowers that I know.
Flag above Paradise, Sub-Alpine Meadow and a Doug fir
Sitka Vilarian, then Pink Mountain Heather and a Daisy
An Aster, Broadleaf Lupine and a Harebell
Magenta Paintbrush
After my wander about, headed down and back out of the park. Stopped at a number of pull off viewpoints and hiked some short trails on my way back. Saw some waterfalls and hiked through some old growth forest including Red Cedar, Alder and Douglas Fir.
