Start the new year on Mt Rainier. Surprising number of people in Paradise sliding area. Beautiful stars at night.
Christine Falls and Narada Falls are still running, but mostly icicles. Different and pretty. Reflection Lake (less than 2 miles away from Narada Falls) is completely iced over with maybe 1/2 foot snow on top. Can safely walk on the lake. Lots of birds, stealing my lunch.
Mazama Ridge gets higher than Paradise, great views. Possible to loop with Paradise Valley route (~6 miles) or Skyline route (>3 miles more). Trails and snow camping info in Paradise area (~5400') are found here.Longmire (2757') area has a number of trails, but mostly woods. The shortest: Trail of the Shadow is quite interesting. Panels present the history of James Longmire. In the snowy landscape, thermal springs are apparent. Did Rampart Ridge - Wonderland trail loop (~4.3 miles). View is limited.
