Mount Rainier, WA (USA)

Woke up early again - a little more difficult this time (kids getting a little cranky). Made it out of the city before 0800. Headed over Lake Washington to I-405 and then down to WA-169. Found the rural areas quickly - got some breakfast and sandwiches (for later) in Maple Valley). Later, on WA-410, saw some awesome views of Mount Rainier. It was clear immediately that this was a great idea - weather beautiful and visibility great. Made it into White River area by 0945 - just in time for a Junior Ranger campfire program. Kids enjoyed meeting other kids - from around the country - who were also interested in learning about the National Parks and animals. Spent more time in the Sunrise area - hiking along a beautiful trail with wildflowers and views of the glaciers on the mountain. Mollie especially enjoyed using the wildflower guide provided by the rangers. Kids "sworn-in" as Junior Rangers in a big presentation at the Visitor Center (along with some other kids - from New Hampshire - who were on their eighth Junior Ranger of their three week vacation). Drove down towards the South Entrance - we were fortunate that they opened the WA-706 road TODAY! I guess we would have been out of luck otherwise... Highlight of the day was the visit to the Grove of the Patriarchs - a stand of 1000 year old cedars. Also got to cross river on a rickety suspension bridge... Checked out Paradise area - VERY busy but saw even prettier views of the mountain from that side. Exited the park around 1600 and headed back towards Tacoma. Our plan was to meet up with Courtenay (Pat and Mike's daughter) and her kids for dinner at their swim club on Lake Washington - made it by 1830. Our kids were fast friends with Holly and Finn - they all enjoyed the entire evening swimming and diving. Courtenay set up a great spread with burgers, dogs and lots of great Northwest fruit. Back at Courtenay's home, kids spent a few more hours playing - didn't want the visit (or the trip) to end... I had to end it, finally, because I found out we had to leave by 1000 tomorrow (with a two hour drive back to Whidbey...). Back at the hotel, easy to get everyone to sleep...