Rainier Sojourn: Around Rainier on the Wonderland Trail

Experience the magnificence of Mount Rainier through the eyes of Dan and Patrick as they traverse around the flanks of this icon of the Pacific Northwest on the Wonderland Trail. Based on the author's diary during a twelve day backpacking trip, the reader will descend steep canyons, cross glacial rivers, and ascend through primeval forests into vast alpine meadows carpeted with wild flowers. Along the way you will meet fellow travelers, taste the abundant huckleberries, and admire the wildlife. The author strives to bring to life the aches and pains, the anxieties and fears, the inspirations and insights, and the driving rain and abundant sunshine that animate this 93 mile pathway. The narrative is expanded by reviewing the geological and mythical origins of the volcano, combined with tales describing the local pioneers. Awaken to the sound of boulders ricocheting along a glacier, and the whispers of climbing tales echoing from the Wigwam Hotel across Indian Henry's Hunting Ground. Stroll past mountain goat kids frolicking beside an icy lake, tiptoe around a black bear, and welcome a blacktail deer into camp. At the end of the journey the author comes to realize just how interconnected we all are, not only to humanity, but to the universe itself.