Mason Lake

Mt. Rainier

Valley View

Mason Lake

oct. 22, 2005
2100ft gain, ~6.0miles round trip
JiaLi and Istvan
10:30-12:30---1:40-3:40

At the time I decide to change to winter mode, which features Gold's Gym, Blockbuster 2-out DVD rental plan, party and friends, the nature bestowed us a surprisingly clear day. So we headed to Mason Lake.

Mason Lake trail shares a large part with the trail to Bendera Mt., which I have climbed twice. Whether was the best this time and one could clearly see Mt. Rainer along the trail. Felt great sitting besides the lake watching the sparkling lake under sun-shine and breeze.

Met an interesting hiker on the trail heading back to parking lot. He has hiked here for almost 30 years and knew the trails very well. He had a severe heart problem. For him, each additional hike or even each additional day is very precious. Actually, it is true for everyone. Looking at the falling leaves and gathering cloud, this could be the last good hike of this passing season.

Beatiful green color

Heather lake

Heather Lake

Oct. 9, 2005
4.0 miles round trip and 1,000 ft gain
Chu Jiali, Jin Zhong, Chen Wenying

In a cloudy Sunday, we headed out for an easier lake trail. Zhong just came back from her 3-week trip in China. Jiali has been busy with his friends in the last few weekends. So it's nice to hike together again.

There are still some tiny waterfalls here and there after raining. Lake was surrounded by high mountains. Some grass in the water have really lovely green colors.

Hiking day is always a great day, isn't it?