ヤキマ郡の天然記念物・トップ10

At 5,430 ft, Chinook Pass offers stunning mountain along Mather Memorial Parkway. The pass is open mid-May to November—check for seasonal closures before you go.

The summit of this pass is marked by a rustic stone-and-wood archway that happens to be part of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. If you want to hop off your bike for a minute, there's a pretty, short nature trail here with great views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, and Tipsoo Lake.

Ascend to the summit of Cowiche Mountain and relish in panoramic vistas. Once an expansive cattle ranch, this area is now a thriving nature preserve teeming with wildlife and vibrant wildflowers. In spring, golden hues and purples blanket the shrub-steppe, while sweeping views stretch from the Yakima River Canyon to the majestic snowy peaks of Rainier and Adams.

Climbing up to the summit of majestic Mount Adams is a strenuous adventure. With 12,280 feet, it is the second highest peak in the Pacific Northwest just after Mount Rainier. There is snow at the top all year round, so bring at least microspikes and appropriate layers of clothing. The view from the top is breathtaking and very well deserved once you conquered this beast of a volcano. The easiest access is from the south side at Coldwater Springs Camp, but you will still gain an elevation of 6,600 feet. The best time to summit is from May through October and between May 1 and September 30 you need to obtain a Mount Adams Climbing Permit here: https://www.recreation.gov/activitypass/4280e9ae-d010-11ea-8e82-82c0c22bed90

At this locations, you will not see Mount Rainier itself. This is where the Naches Peak Loop Trail meets with the Pacific Crest Trail. You can decide to go left or right to get to Chinook Pass a little further north.

Deer Lake has lots of room for tents with views over the turquoise water. Pine trees will provide you with shade and the lake itself is very inviting for a dip.

With Ginette Lake you reach the boundary of the Goat Rocks Wilderness. It is a great spot for a break or to pitch your tent. The lake is a good water source.

The Knife's Edge is a narrow path with drop offs to both sides. But even for someone who has some issues with exposed terrain (me), crossing this section was no problem at all. It might be a different game if the path is still covered with snow and ice.