Photos gathered during the first week in October……..

When misting rain and fall colors are present, Stevens Creek Trail is a perfect place to spend time when visiting Mt. Rainier National Park. Stevens Creek Trail is located at Box Canyon on the Stevens Canyon Road. This trail travels downward from the parking area into the canyon for seven tenths of a mile and then junctions with the Wonderland Trail. Maple Creek Camp is a short mile farther from the Wonderland Trail junction sign.

When conditions in the park are cloudy or rainy so the mountain is hidden, the Stevens Creek Trail provides a forest umbrella for protection from the rain and solitude to enjoy the delicate natural setting. The trail drops down to a small waterfall with fenced viewing after a half mile downward trek. A picturesque bridge for crossing over Stevens Creek appears two tenths of a mile from the view of the waterfall. The huge gray rocks under the bridge have been rounded and smoothed by years of rushing water. Beyond the bridge the trail flattens and meanders alongside small streams with occasional views of Stevens Creek. The backcountry Maple Creek Camp sits pleasantly alongside the creek.

The forest here is different than the huge old growth mossy forests in other parts of the park. There are many small Vine Maples that fan out their pointed flat leaves into different graceful designs. Standing tall with darker green branches are contrasting Mountain Hemlock and Fir trees. Bracken Ferns and Vanilla Leaves cover the ground in lush profusion. The trail is enjoyed by the elk as their tracks are always present.

Hiking into Maple Creek Camp is a quiet private experience that gives the mistaken feeling of being deep into the backcountry. Retracing the trail back to the car gives a different perspective and new sights unnoticed. From the Stevens Creek Bridge, remember that what comes down must go up! Therefore, the last part of the hike can be a huff at the end.

In late September through October the Vine Maples turn light green and yellow while the Bracken Ferns and Vanilla Leaves change to yellow and brown. Some Vine Maples turn pink when they find an opening to the light. A pleasant faint fragrance of vanilla fills the air from the Vanilla Leaves lining the trail. A fall mist or rain makes everything look shiny and polished.

The Stevens Creek Trail at Box Canyon is a magical wonderland during the autumn season. Make this trail a fall destination and enjoy the Stevens Canyon Road fall color show on the way to Box Canyon.

Sally Johnson
Author: Mount Rainier DRIVE or HIKE to SEE Book
www.mtrainierphotos.com