Pretty Penny Adventures

Mount Rainier is the crown jewel of Washington State — towering, glacial, photogenic. She dominates the skyline like she owns the place, and honestly, she kind of does. You’ll find her face everywhere — on license plates, in beer commercials, and all over the social media feeds of anyone who’s ever owned a Subaru.

Nearly 10,000 people climb her every year. In search of? Challenge? Peace? Solitude? Cell service?

Don’t get me wrong — I love nature. I hike, I camp, and I can sort of tell the difference between a pine cone and a pine nut. But climbing an icy volcano? No thanks. My idea of adventure involves great views, snacks, and the ability to turn around if things start looking too “Everest.”

Mount Rainier has endured millions of years of eruptions, glaciers, and tourists with selfie sticks (don’t get me started). She’s beautiful, unpredictable, and always in control. I’ve admired her from hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and roadside turnouts.

Some mountains are meant to be conquered. Some are meant to be revered from afar with a cup of coffee in one hand, and a camera in the other. That’s my preference.