I revisited one of my favorite areas of Mt. Rainier National Park these two days, that being the Tatoosh Range. A short approach on the Pinnacle Peak Trail (1.3 miles, starting at 4900’) deposits the hiker right in the midst of peak after peak, all featuring 360 degree views with an ever present expansive view towards the mountain. I was joined by my buddy and his wife, promising them a worthy day without undue mileage. Once we gained the saddle at the end of the Pinnacle Peak trail, we proceeded on the way trail to the summit of Plummer Peak (6370’), one I had visited last year. Plummer is basically a walk up peak so I knew the enjoyment and wow factor of the wide ranging views would delight my companions. Excellent cool weather certainly added to the alpine bliss.

*Approaching the summit of Plummer Peak (6370’)*

In 2020 I had turned back on Pinnacle Peak, not feeling right at the time. I told my buddy that this is not one he would probably want to do. However, we could survey the entire route and watched someone high on the ridge. Verdict: “Let’s at least take a look.” We got to a place where his wife decided not to continue so I was expecting to summit solo. But CB decided to come with me. Pinnacle is described as a “moderate scramble” in the Mountaineers book but we encountered sustained class 3 climbing until relenting near the summit. The hardest part of this climb was down climbing, as the steepness necessitated facing in. There were no mishaps and Pinnacle ticked #60 from the 100 list for me. I don’t see a necessity to repeat this scramble.

Now the day before I did Foss (6524’), also described as a “moderate scramble.” These two peaks were night and day, as I found a way trail from the beginning that essentially led me all the way to the Foss summit. There was nothing “moderate” about that entire day, it was easy. Go figure on who writes these descriptions; the Mountaineers book is now out of production. I had a later start for Foss but the well established trail took most of the navigation stress out of the picture. I was able to enjoy a late afternoon summit and enjoyable stroll back to my van at Cougar Rock campground with plenty of light left in the day. There are 3 more peaks in the Tatoosh that I may be able to do solo; Lane, Stevens and Boundary. Unicorn and The Castle are listed as climbs and require a partner who knows what they are doing. Perhaps some other time. Video of these peaks can be found in the Off Trail pulldown.

*The Castle (right) and Pinnacle Peak from Foss summit (6524’)*