Rainier views, and a grind — Norse Peak!

This Saturday we're heading out toward Norse Peak — a steady, switchback-heavy climb through beautiful subalpine forest and alpine meadows bursting with purple lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies (depending on the season). On a clear day the summit delivers sweeping, panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding ridges. It's a long, exposed grind — but the payoff is absolutely worth it. 🥾 📍 Hike Details (from AllTrails) Trail: Norse Peak Trail Distance: \~10.3 miles Elevation Gain: \~3,238 ft Route Type: Out & back Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: 6.5–7 hours of hiking (plus breaks) Pass required: Yes — Northwest Forest Pass / America the Beautiful Pass for the trailhead. ⚠️ Trail Notes: Steady climb: Lots of switchbacks on steeper terrain — supportive boots and trekking poles will help you feel stable. Little shade up high: The upper slopes are quite exposed to the warm sun. Pack plenty of water and sun protection. Trail forks: Recent hikers recommend staying on the horse trail where the trail splits — it helped at a few junctions. Burn scars: Parts of the route pass through old burn areas and can feel repetitive; the summit views make up for it. Cell service: Spotty at best. Download your offline map before we leave! 🚗 Schedule & Meeting (Saturday) 7:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake Park & Ride (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle) 7:15 AM – Carpool departs promptly \~8:15 AM – Pit stop at Safeway – 152 Roosevelt Ave E, Enumclaw, WA 98022 (bathrooms / snacks / coffee / supplies) \~9:15 AM – Arrive at trailhead \~9:30 AM – Start hiking 🥾 \~4:30–5:30 PM – Back to cars \~7:00–8:00 PM – Estimated return to Green Lake P&R 🎒 What to Bring ✅ Hiking boots (sturdy, good traction for steep switchbacks) ✅ Trekking poles (strongly recommended for the climb and…