Mount Rainier - Pinnacle Peak Hike, Reflection Lakes

SGV Jam Track https://soundcloud.com/user-282810137/victor-this-guy-gilmour-style

The Pinnacle Peak hike on Mount Rainier starts right at the edge of Reflection Lakes, where the 14,410-foot volcanic cone of Rainier fills the still water like a perfect mirror on calm mornings. You leave the lakeshore and climb a steady trail through silver fir and mountain hemlock, passing meadows that explode with lupine, paintbrush, and beargrass in July and August. The path switchbacks upward through cool forest and open slopes, with the smell of pine and the distant roar of waterfalls keeping you company. Before long you’re standing on a narrow rocky saddle with the entire Tatoosh Range spread out in front of you and Rainier looming huge overhead.
From the top, three sparkling lakes—Reflection, Louise, and Faraway—glitter far below, while Plummer Peak sits right next door and the long green Paradise valley stretches to the horizon. On the way down the light changes everything: late-afternoon sun turns Rainier pink and the lakes glow like liquid gold. This hike is short enough to pair with sunrise coffee or sunset photos, yet rewarding enough to feel like a real mountain adventure. Bring layers, sturdy boots, and a camera—Reflection Lakes alone are worth the drive, but Pinnacle Peak makes the whole scene unforgettable.