Snow at Chinook Pass

When I noticed that Chinook Pass had not yet been closed for the winter, I chose that area for this weekend's hiking destination. There was more snow on the ground (and on the trees) than I had expected, but that made for fun scenery. I opted to hike the short Naches Peak Loop, which, though short, ended up being plenty of work in the fresh snow. Remarkably for that trail, particularly on a Saturday, there were very few other hiking parties present. Unfortunately, clouds and fog rolled in early in the hike, hiding Mount Rainier, Dewey Lake, and other features normally visible from the trail. To make matters even more challenging, snow and ice pellets began to fall. Thankfully, I got a few good shots before the conditions deteriorated. And the otherworldliness of the fresh snow, combined with the solitude, more than made up for the less-than-ideal weather.

First, two early views from the Naches Peak Loop. F/16 and F/18, respectively.

Next, an image that came later in the hike, after the clouds and fog had thickened. There is a bit more white space than I would prefer, due to the snowy slope, but there are some faintly discernible contours there, so I think it works. F/14.

Finally, from the highway near Chinook Pass on the way to the trailhead. As would be the case on the trail, the clouds obscured some of the more eye-catching views, but created an interesting atmosphere. F/14.