Vinterdagstur til Longmire på Mount Rainier fra Seattle

We had a wonderful day visiting Longmire and Mount Rainier in winter. Lucky to get a crystal clear day giving us fabulous views of Mount Rainier from various locations throughout to park. Our guide (Brent Maphis) was great fun and shared his excellent knowledge of nature with the group. Everything went smoothly on the day, van was in good condition and plenty of food and snacks provided.

A very relaxing paced, mindful, and enjoyable tour. Our tour guide Marty provided a day full of intimate knowledge of the region and insightful exploration of nature which, for someone not familiar with the region, was very appreciated. His enthusiasm and positive vibe helped to uplift the tour even when weather and walking conditions were dreary. My special dietary requirements were met and snacks and drink were provided.

This was my second trip through Evergreen Escapes. Easy pickup from downtown hotel, and only 7 people on the trip, so lots of room in the van. It was Mid November and we had a crystal clear and cool day. The temperature was say 40 degrees when we arrived at an overlook to the park and got a list of the itinerary for the day. First stop after pictures at the entrance to the park was at Longmire parking lot. Here we went on a short hike along the Trail of the Shadows. It is about .7 mile and has some interesting thermal features that reminds you that there is a volcano underneath your feet . This was a very fit group and even with the guide explanations of everything we completed this in about 15 minutes. I was pushing for a longer hike ( maybe to carter falls) but I don't think that the guide was allowed to take us any farther into the park. But she did start us up the Wonderland trail where we put in a 5+ mile out and back hike along a river. A strenuous couple of minutes before the trail leveled out and the rest of the hike was quite enjoyable. The guide headed everyone back to the Longmire parking area where she heated up some soup and lunch. Post lunch we hiked the Twin Firs loop which is a do not miss hike when on that side of the park. Lots of huge 500 year old trees were a pleasure to walk through. Then a 2 hour drive back to Seattle for a drop off at our hotel. Very nice day hike. I would recommend the tour to anyone who likes to hike and is in downtown Seattle.

Admiring Mount Rainier from Seattle is great but getting to go into the park and learn about the history, local ecosystems, and wildlife was a really fulfilling experience. My guide, Mal, had a warm, personable demeanour and seemed to know everything about the Longmire area, making the tour both enjoyable and informative. Super fun day, I'm glad I went.