10/2/2026 Naches Peak loop was the perfect fall outing for a family with a small baby. It featured colorful meadows and big views, all on a relatively, easy, short trail. We started from Tipsoo Lake and hiked clockwise. Fall colors were just about prime and Mount Rainier graced us with her presence on the south side of the peak. The trail itself was wide and easy to follow, which made it a great option to put the baby in a carrier and enjoy low effort/high reward mountain vie

9/10/2026 Chain Lakes Loop has just about all you could want in a short day hike. Stunning views of the rugged Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker, beautiful alpine lakes, and vibrant fall foliage. No wonder it’s a popular destination! Since we would be hiking with a baby in a carrier on our chest, we thought the best plan would be to start our hike from Artist Point going clockwise, then Katie and baby would end their excursion at Austin Pass and I would carry on back up to Artist