My parents and I headed to the shadow of Mt. Rainier to hop aboard the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad in Elbe, WA. Although it was an early morning, it was so much fun to ride the steam-powered train (and hear the sound of the train whistle!), which took us to and from Mineral Lake. In the past when I have visited Mt. Rainier, I have seen the area as a hiker, but it was interesting to see that area by venturing on the tracks through people's backyards (one which featured tons of metal figurines and sculptures).
After our ride, we had lunch in an old railcar that made almost everything they served from scratch. Although the place was a bit pricey, the food was good...and who wouldn't love eating a meal in an old train car for an experience?).
Although I should have gotten home to study for my upcoming CPA test, we drove through Mt. Rainier National Park. At Paradise at the top of the mountain, clouds covered our view of the mountain, but once we headed down the back side of the mountain we were able to get straight shots of Rainier in all its glory.
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The trip was not complete without a stop at Black Diamond Bakery...I think they have the best baked goods I have ever tasted. Maybe I am exaggerating, but I don't think so.
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I think my mom summed up the day nicely when she said she felt as though she had taken a weekend vacation even though we were just gone for the day. Lesson learned: I love a good steam-powered train and the PNW is indeed a beautiful place to be.
