Here is a hike that will knock your socks off. On top of that, the hike is only 43 paved miles from church. The Norse Peak hike, located within the Norse Peak Wilderness Area, is steep and long - an 8 mile round trip for those who make it all the way. But the reward is splendid views, bird song, cascading falls, wild flowers on the upper reaches and wind in the trees. From the moment hikers leave the primitive parking area the trail winds relentlessly upward in long, lazy switchbacks. Each step opens new vistas of beauty with the final reward being an incredible 360 degree view of the Cascade Range that includes both Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier as they rise above the intervening ridges.
Half way point turn around Hikers who cannot get to the summit might want to try to make a point half way to the summit their destination. At this point, about 2 1/4 miles up the mountain, the trail leaves the forest and enters a vast open area, full of flowers and replete with spectacular views. A large, steep boulder field just to the right of a long switchback marks the spot. Average hikers should try to get this far and enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading back down.
"The Balcony" turn around 20 minutes (depending on your speed) after the halfway mark is another view point that former hike leader, Fr. Chuck, calls "The Balcony." Here, the trail comes right to the edge of a "cliff." The trees frame the balcony, providing a semi-enclosed area with totally stunning views of Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainier. If you have a little more energy, this is the place to go to before turning back.
Going for the summit Once past The Balcony, "All the way" hikers will want to watch for the place where the trail to the summit breaks off from the main trail. The main trail takes people to Big Crow Basin. It is difficult to spot point where the summit trail breaks off from the main trail. Hopefully, the leader for this parish hike will have located and clearly marked the spot the day before the parish hike.
How to get to Norse Peak Here is how to get to Norse Peak and the Norse Peak Wilderness Area. Take Highway 410 toward Crystal Mountain and Mt. Rainier. If you go through Buckley you are going the wrong direction! Stay on Highway 410 until you get to Crystal Mountain Blvd. Turn left onto Crystal Mountain Blvd. This road is clearly marked and is paved as well. If you drive through the log arch entrance to Mt. Rainier Park you have gone too far.
There is no trail sign or formal parking area so watch for a large wooden sign that says "Ski Area" that will appear shortly after the four mile post. The trail is accessed by taking the logging road that starts just across the road from the ski area sign. Hike up the gated road about 100 yards to reach the formal beginning of the trail, which is well marked from that point on.
This is a fee hike. If you plan to be late, stop at Wapati Woolies in Greenwater and pick up a permit there.
On hike day Many times if there are low, misty clouds in the Black Diamond-Maple Valley area, the Norse Peak Wilderness is enjoying bright sunshine.
Give yourself ample time to reach the trailhead. Even though Highway 410 is quite wide it is still a two lane roadway. People with horse trailers or big campers could cause the traffic flow to move slowly.
Bring plenty of water. The trail is a dry one. Those intending to attempt the summit will probably want at least two quarts of water each. Do not bring soda. Once a can of soda is opened it has to be finished. On a hike it is much better if a person can sip some water whenever they are thirsty. For that reason, each family member would do well to carry their own water.
Carry an ample supply of snacks. Some people prefer not to eat until they reach their destination. Again, good hiking lore suggests that a person should snack whenever they are hungry. In that way an individual's energy stays high. Sugary snacks are not recommended for the mountains. Candy bars and the like give a false sense of energy boost.
Even on a warm day mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared by carrying extra clothing for sudden shifts in weather.
Here is a hike that will knock your socks off. On top of that, the hike is only 43 paved miles from church. The Norse Peak hike, located within the Norse Peak Wilderness Area, is steep and long - an 8 mile round trip for those who make it all the way. But the reward is splendid views, bird song, cascading falls, wild flowers on the upper reaches and wind in the trees. From the moment hikers leave the primitive parking area the trail winds relentlessly upward in long, lazy switchbacks. Each step opens new vistas of beauty with the final reward being an incredible 360 degree view of the Cascade Range that includes both Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier as they rise above the intervening ridges.