High Rock
Mt. Rainier (Tahoma) is one of the many wonders of Washington. Packed with 25 glaciers and standing 14,411 feet, this mountain is really the crown jewel of the state. In August of 2020, I had the opportunity to hike to a peak that overlooks Tahoma, a peak that was home to one of many infamous Washington fire lookouts.
I had never heard of High Rock before this trip, and just assumed the obvious (a high rock overlooking some grand view). With glimpses of Mt. Rainier through the pines on the way to the trailhead, expectations and excitement was already at a high. The warm August breeze was blowing, and the golden sun was high in the sky with no clouds around. This was going to be a hike to remember.
Hiking on an incline is always a good test of endurance and mobility, but it became even more of a test as I realized the destination sat way above the trailhead. In about an hour worth of hiking, we would climb over 1,000ft to the top of the lookout. Of course, it seemed daunting at first. With one step at a time though, we made progress. Up and up I went, through the forest filled with that golden sun. Eventually, views of Mt. Rainier and distant peaks started to reveal themselves. The journey was starting to feel so worth it, as I knew it would. With only half a mile left, morale was very high.
Tired from the constant incline, we were definitely looking forward to reaching the top. There’s something special about doing tough things and being rewarded with such a magnificent moment. I think that’s why I love hiking so much; the journey itself can be tough, but in the end it’s always so worth it. From the first step I take on trail, to the last glimpse I take at the destination, I love every part of it. No matter the weather or the trail, there’s always peace and joy to be found while in nature. This trail was no exception to that, pure bliss found right in the heart of my home state.
The top. After a quick but challenging accent, High Rock was officially crossed off the list. Sitting on the rocks looking out towards Tahoma was a memory that I’ll never forget. I can still remember the stillness of time while up there. Nature seems to have a way of slowing everything down when you’re present within it, and that’s exactly how I felt here. I was at peace.
