Castle, Pinnacle, Plummer Traverse

Activity Notes

The Tatoosh Range, located in the southern end of Mt. Rainier National Park, is made up of 11 named peaks. This 3 peak link-up is one of the most popular, if only because of the easy access from the trailhead. A popular Mazamas climb, this classic alpine scramble has a round trip hike of just 4 miles and 1,700 vertical feet, and thus can be done by most climbers of moderate fitness in a reasonable day. The Tatoosh peaks offer spectacular views of Mt. Rainier - given clear weather, naturally. This is good beginner trip and fairly close to home. Be prepared for a short rappel on Castle and possible a handline on Pinnacle, depending on your comfort level on exposed 3rd or easy 4th class rock.  "Tatoosh" means 'nourishing breast " in the local native American language.

From Reflection lake parking area, take the trail opposite the lake towards Pinnacle peak. Head up to the trail's end  (about 1.2 miles, 1100 feet gain) at the Pinnacle-Plummer saddle. Traverse the south scree slope under Pinnacle east to Castle (loose rock with some exposure near Castle and angle up the S.E face. A rope will be used for belay on the last bit. Class 3-4.  Expect to do a short rappel on the descent.  About 3 hours from road.

 Descend Castle back to the south side. Traverse on long scree slope West to Pinnacle. Find an obvious gully on the west end of the south side (somewhat loose and exposed in spots).  Ascend to ridge crest. Class 2. Two hours from Castle.  2 Hours from Castle.

Descend Pinnacle by gully and take trail towards west. Leave trail at saddle between Plummer and Pinnacle and scramble heather slopes to summit of Plumber. Class 1-2, 1 hour from Pinnacle.

Descend Plummer and return via hiking trail to road. 1 hour. Back to cars around 4to 6 PM.

Depending on weather, there could be a little early season snow on this trip.  Be prepared  for possible cold weather.

 PACK-IN DIRECTIONS and MEETING LOCATION:

We will meet at Reflection Lakes Parking area at 9AM Sunday October 7th.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:

From Portland, take I-5 north 74 miles to the Morton exit, 10 miles before Chehalis. Turn east on US-12 for 29 miles to Morton. Turn north onto state highway 7 for 17 miles to Elbe. Turn east onto highway 706 (Longmire entrance road) for 32 miles towards Paradise. Continue past the Paradise turnoff another 1.5 miles to the Reflections lakes parking area and the trailhead. Allow 3 hours drive time, 160 miles from Portland. Suggested Maximum driver donation is $40.00 per passenger (driver can ask for lesser amount as agreed on with passengers).

If you want to camp the night before,  Cougar Rock campground in the park can be used. This is located 8 mile east of the entrance station.  Reflection lakes is another 8 miles past Cougar Rock.