This underappreciated, and hence uncrowded, trail climbs to a fire lookout dating from 1932. As is the wont of lookouts there are stupendous views in all directions: east and north over the Cascades, south to Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and the Ohanapecosh Valley, and of course west to Rainier itself. The lookout building is in great condition although no longer used for fire watch which these days is done aerially.

The trail starts in forest, then enters a unique landscape created by an old burn which has left small groups of trees separated by open areas where new trees are just starting to grow back. In the meantime there's a brushy mix of ferns, wild strawberries, huckleberries, and wildflowers. These lower altitude treeless areas allow the stunning views to start up nice and early during the hike. Higher up, the brush is replaced by more typical subalpine vegetation.

Other online guides warn that this trail is exposed and hot, going so far as to suggest it best saved for a fall hike. Such was not my experience on a sunny day in August, however. It helped that I started early (on the trail by 8 AM) as the trail climbs a southwest facing slope which doesn't receive direct sun until late morning. But also, the first third of the hike is forest, and even once into the burn area I found shade was plentiful (as of 2020). I wonder if brush and trees have grown back enough to make a difference in the years since the other guides were written?

The trail was completely dry when I hiked it. Bring lots of water, especially if you are camping here!