Mystic Lake

Hike of the Week

A sparkling jewel in Mount Rainier's crown

MYSTIC LAKE -- the name alone is enough to pique a hiker's interest with visions of emerald meadows, desolate moraines and shimmering mists. This enigmatic lake in Mount Rainier National Park is reached via the world-class Wonderland Trail and was given its name by two visiting professors because of a mysterious whirlpool they observed near the outlet of the lake.

By Karen Sykes | September 15, 2005