When you're bored with the usual hiking trails and cross country treks, maybe it's time to hit the mountains! Mountain climbing is a great way to explore the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh mountain air and see life from a new perspective - literally. Still, the only way you'll reach the top is with the right survival gear, and selecting the right mountain climbing boots is an essential step in the right direction.

Mountain climbing boots are usually designed with Thinsulate materials, Gore-Tex and durable rubber to keep your feet well-protected on a rigorous route. Finding the right fit and making sure you pick the right type of shoes will keep you trekking on without stress, and also reduce your risk of injury.

If you're ready to freshen up your outdoor sports agenda and find yourself heading to the mountains, be sure to follow these tips when selecting a pair of mountain climbing boots:

The Heavier the Better

Heavy boots are ideal for mountaineering activities because they help balance out your weight and keep you grounded en route. Look for heavy materials that combine steel, rubber and heavy plastics so you can carry some extra weight in your lower body and maintain balance on even the steepest slopes.

Go For the High-Cut Style

High cut boots provide extra ankle and lower leg support, and can also withstand colder temperatures if you're heading to a snowy mountaintop. Look for styles that provide extra cushioning in the heel and back of the ankles, but make sure you can flex your ankles slightly as you bend, squat or stoop in these boots.

Stick with Waterproof Lining
Waterproof liningmeans you don't have to worry about snow, rain or sleet as you hike and climb your way to the top of the mountain. Waterproof lining such as Gore-Tex can prevent water from soaking into your socks and also help your feet 'breathe' as they sit snugly in those boots. Waterproof lining can be found in the toe area of most quality mountain climbing boots.

Opt for Full-Grain Leather

Full-grain leather(vs. split-grain leather) is best for more rugged routes, and can withstand extreme temperatures and ward off moisture. Full-grain leather styles are tough; make sure you've given yourself time to 'break in' to these types of mountain climbing boots so you can practice your balancing act on even the toughest trails.

Look for Hidden Support

If you're planning on conquering a multi-route trail that involves mountain climbing, hiking and cross country trekking, you may need some extra support to stabilize the ankles and feet, and prevent shock injuries as you engage in different types of movements. Mountain climbing boots made with steel inserts and flexible plates can provide extra support when you're tackling different types of terrain.

The style and cut of quality mountain climbing boots do take time to get used to, so it's best to practice different stances and maneuvers before you head off on your route. Mountain climbing boots need to be durable, but also provide comfort and protection on those challenging trails. Make use of these tips when you're looking for your ideal pair and enjoy the rough terrain on your mountain climbing venture!

If your idea of a vacation is seeing how many miles you can cover through dense wilderness, Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be your dream destination.

If your idea of a vacation is seeing how many miles you can cover through dense wilderness, Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be your dream destination. There are more than 800 miles of trails through America's most visited park, and if you wait until Fall for your vacation, or head out in the early summer, you'll have less competition from other visitors.

Some people prefer to spend their vacations in the numerous Great Smoky Mountains campsites, taking day hikes over the trails that wind sinuously through the Smokies. However, you can also take two-, three- and four-night backpacking trips and sleep out under the stars. Either way, you're guaranteed a fair amount of exercise and a close-up encounter with several forms of wildlife.

Maddron Bald Overnight Loop

If your legs have been parked under a desk all year, this might not be the trail for you, but experienced hikers who have kept in shape will find the hike invigorating. The two-night adventure takes you along the foothills of Gabes Mountain and into the woods toward a campsite known as Sugar Grove, which has developed a reputation for bear sightings. On the second day, you'll follow Maddron Bald Trail and camp along Otter Creek, and finish the trail on the third day down Snake Den Trail.

This particular adventure on your vacation will take you to 5,800 feet in elevation, and you'll constantly want to stop not to rest your legs, but to admire the stunning vistas that appear through clearings.

Fontana Lake Loop

For those inexperienced hikers, or the vacationers who haven't kept in shape, Fontana Lake is the ultimate destination for beautiful scenery without as much burn. Start out your morning at Fontana Lake, and try some jet-boating before you head up into the mountains, or simply take the chartered boat service from the marina to the other side of the 29-mile-long lake.

The hike itself is magnificent, providing interspersed views of both Fontana Lake and Eagle Creek, carrying you up relatively gentle inclines and long, sloping declines. You might get to see some deer, and you'll find birds of all species flying among the trees. Children in particular will enjoy the view of the Appalachian Trail, which is intersected on the last leg of the hike. You'll end up at Fontana Marina, where you can return to your campsite or enjoy another opportunity for fishing or boating.

There are thousands of different combinations of trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, each of which has something different to offer. Just make sure you bring plenty of water on your hike, and if you come during the middle of the summer, choose non-rationed campsites for more seclusion and less interruption on your hike.

We spent a month hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway which connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. We had amazing hikes but one that was very special was actually different from any I've hiked. I had never heard of a privately owned mountain but Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina is privately owned.

It is also the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain area at almost 6,000 feet. Grandfather Mountain with 12 miles of trails isn't just for hiking; however, it is a tourist attraction and a nature preserve.

As a privately owned mountain you will have to pay to hike! One ticket includes the Mile High Swinging Bridge which I'll talk about in a moment. There are other exhibits that are great for children. You'll find picnic tables and guided tours as well as a restaurant and gift shop.

The hours for various activities are different so I'll point you to the website for hours and phone number. The fees are $14.00 for adults; $12.00 if you are over 60; $6.00 for children 4 to 12 and under 4 go in free. We thought $14.00 was a lot to hike but it's really a very special place and I recommend Grandfather Mountain. If you have AAA you'll save a couple of dollars.

We got to Grandfather Mountain at 9:00a.m. It was really cool and windy. We went into the very nice Visitor Center where I was told that it is always windy at Grandfather Mountain and it gets windier and cooler as you get higher so I really recommend layers of clothes. In fact the average summer temperature is only 68 degrees.

We parked in the lot and headed to what looked like the main trail. There were many caution signs saying that Grandfather Mountain is dangerous (There are short easy hikes from here though)) and to wear hiking boots. They urge children not to climb (Although we saw at least two but they were experienced.) Our hiking book told us that there were 7 ladder. (Ladders used in hiking are there because the mountain is too steep to climb- unless you're a goat- so ladders are built into the mountain!) There were cables to help climb up the ladder. It can be scary and nerve racking though truth be told my husband was more nervous than I was. The book went on to tell us we'd be on one precipice and one unnerving ladder but as it turned out we loved this hike and rate it in the top 5 hikes we have done. It took us 3 ½ hours round trip to hike 2 miles!

We hiked McCrea Peak (There are many peaks but the sky was getting cloudy and we didn't want to have to climb down wet ladders, which at the time we thought we would have to do.) You may want to go all the way to Calloway if the weather is nice. We encountered a snake and had been warned there were poisonous snakes on the mountain but when we got down we found out this guy was a good guy.

We did a really dumb thing which you can avoid if you're reading this. We like loops i.e. not in and out hikes but different scenery and terrain going up and down. Rather than going back the way we came we avoided the ladders and took Underwood Trail which as it turned out was not only a bit longer than the ladders but made up of boulders. The going was tedious, tough and not very pretty. . We had one long ladder with no rails that was steep but once we connected with Grandfather Trail we had bypassed the ladders. I'd go down the way I went up next time!

We headed over to the swinging bridge. The Mile High Swinging Bridge was built to give visitors a view of Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak. It was a great view especially knowing we had been on the mountain even if we hadn't been on Linville Peak. The bridge is a 228- suspension bridge so yes it does move and goes over an 80-foot chasm over a mile up. You'll be climbing 50 steps to get to the Bridge; walk on rocks and really just enjoy the views. Enjoy this beautiful and challenging hike.

Please leave only footprints, take only pictures and kill only time.

When summer season calls for hiking and exploring beach territory, being well-equipped with the right survival gear helps you forge ahead on those travels without the stress.

Since you'll be foregoing the standard hiking boots and spiked shoes for the beach, you'll need to choose a pair of rugged sandals instead - the type that provide comfort, support and durability for rockier pathways and potential rock-climbing adventures, but can also withstand the ocean waves or occasional thunderstorm.

Thankfully, you have several styles and designs to choose from; whether you're a flip-flop enthusiast or prefer clog-style sandals, consider these variations of the casual sandal for your beach trekking adventures:

The Clog Sandal

Clogs continue to be a top pick for eco-friendly types, and these versatile resin shoes are a great match for beach weather. The clogs are made with built-in arch supports and will keep your feet dry and comfortable even during the next tidal wave. The innovative design of these shoes also provide extra comfort and support for rockier paths and small climbs; use the adjustable heel straps to keep feet snugly in place, or remove them completely when you want to enjoy a slip-on style instead.

The Water Sandal

If you'll be spending lots of time near the ocean, sandals with webbing and extra lining will help protect your feet from the elements and keep your toes dry. Water sandals are also great for biking and hiking around the beach because they're designed with rubber toe guards and extra cushioning for arch support. Look for styles with extra traction so to avoid slipping and sliding on wet surfaces.

The Criss-Cross Flip Flop

Though flip-flops aren't the best pick for rockier climbs and hiking adventures, they do serve a purpose on the beachfront and can help you enjoy flatter terrain with ease. Flip flops made with a thick rubber sole and criss-cross straps can support your feet better than the standard thong-style, and also make it easy to kick off those sandals completely for that beach volleyball game.

Waterproof Leather Sandals

If you're looking for a classic beach sandal with some extra durability, a waterproof leather sandal is the perfect fit for your outdoor ventures. Hook and Loop straps and buckles can keep your feet securely in place on almost any venture; look for styles made with molded rubber for comfort and support, since these types of sandals can keep moisture at bay and absorb the shock from your daily travels.

The Hook and Loop Slide

If you're just settling for some fun in the sand and party-hopping at the beach house, a pair of simple Hook and Loop slides may be all you need to get through the day in style. Casual, comfortable and cool, a Velcro slide is a versatile pick for any day on the beach. Just slip into a pair of waterproof rubber sandals for those laid-back days in the great outdoors.

Whether you're setting your sights on hiking on rocky terrain around the beach coves or just settling in for a game of beach volleyball, make sure you have the right gear to survive the season! From water sandals to the classic clog, you have several options in beach-ready footwear for your summer ventures.

Middle Head Trail is in the beautiful Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a must see. I fell in love with this entire area of Canada. Middle Head Trail isn't a difficult trail and it isn't a long trail, so most people can easily walk it.

Middle Head Trail starts at the Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa on the Middle Head Peninsula on Ingonish Beach. You'll find Highland Links Golf Course and tennis courts at Keltic Lodge but I'd rather be hiking! Keltic Lodge is impressive with its many buildings and matching outdoor chairs. Keltic Lodge is now owned by the government. A lot of this trail was a carriage road that connected what was a private estate to the fishing village.

There is a reason for the name, Middle Head Trail. Middle Head is a narrow, rocky protrusion that divides Ingonish Bay in half. You'll find beautiful beaches on the coast. You'll start out at the Lodge. After about one half mile you'll come to an area that can easily be mistaken as the end of the trail. The trail loops around at that point. If you are a novice hiker you may want to take the loop in this area that will bring you back to the point of the trailhead heading to Keltic Lodge.

We thought it ended when we came to an expanse of rocks and a railing. Walking out to the rocks we looked to the right and saw the end of the point and wondered if we could get to it. In fact the trail continues to that very point. The trail is only 2.5 miles round trip but we spent a lot of time walking around and enjoying the scenery.

The elevation is only 50 feet and if you don't stop and smell the ocean, it will take you about 1 1/2 hours to complete Middle Head Trail. The trail is comprised of amazing views of the ocean and woodsy areas.

You'll find interpretive signs along the way, a lot of birds, and wonderful views of the ocean. There are benches along the way as well as overlooks that allowed us to get off the trail; go through some brush and look out onto amazing views.

Middle Head Trail was an easy hike/walkdepending on one's ability with only 2 small hills, one of which was on the steep side; boardwalks, and stairs to help people maneuver their way. You will be treated to one of the most beautiful and serene spots that I can say I have ever encountered. Since it's not a difficult hike, you might feel as if you want more of a challenge, but take some time out of your challenging hikes and see this beautiful spot at the end of Middle Head. Don't be surprised to see people meditating or just looking at the scenery in
awe.

Please leave only footprints, take only pictures and kill only time.

Ever since humans learned to walk, some form of shoe has been essential. Initially, it was a lot about basic protection from the elements. Shoes made from animal skins were developed at first and through the centuries, other types of shoes have been made, incorporating a variety of methods and materials. In more modern times, the discovery of human-made materials have advanced the manufacture of shoes.

Hiking as Recreation

As people began to have more leisure time, and as it became possible to wander farther from home, hiking became more and more popular. Now it is not uncommon to see people enjoying hiking - at different levels of difficulty – for recreation. One of my favorite activities is hiking, and I'm not alone.

Millions of people every year use hiking as a way to connect with nature. I think this is especially true as we become an increasingly urban society. There is definitely a strong desire to get back to our roots in nature. And through the change in the status of hiking, the evolution of hiking shoes has taken place. Originally, people thought of hiking footwear in terms of boots. Bulky, padding-stuffed, stiff boots. These boots were thickly insulated in order to keep in warmth. Additionally, they were large. I look at pictures of my dad's first pair of hiking boots and I can hardly believe how clunky they were. And you had to break them in. If you didn't - well, hiking just didn't maintain the moniker of "recreational activity."

From Hiking Boots to Hiking Shoes

As technology pervades every aspect of life, hiking boots have necessarily been affected. Like microchips and consumer electronics, hiking boots have shrunk in size.

Today's hiking boot is really more of a hiking shoe. The modern hiking shoe, as we know it, started evolving during the 1980s. Nike decided to take on the challenge of casual hikers. Until this point, hiking boots were reserved mainly for the hard core outdoorspeople. But what about those who liked to go for the occasional hike? Many of them didn't want expensive and over-done hiking boots. So, Nike designed a trail shoe that was meant for light hiking.

Now, there are many companies that make hiking shoes. And these hiking shoes have taken advantage of technology to become smaller and sleeker,hile at the same time becoming sturdier. Technological advances have allowed for things like Gore-Tex, which helps protect the feet from water, as well as advances that have led to cushioning in hiking shoes, allowing for a more comfortable hike. And some hiking shoes are made with special technology that lets the shoe to change shape along with the foot. Advances in chemistry have led to more durable materials and research has led to tread that grips better than ever.And you can't forget the technology that has led to breathable mesh materials that add to comfort while maintaining needed insulating effects.

Thanks to technology, we have more choices than ever for when we decide to commune with nature, and we need the proper footwear to do so.

When you go hiking you need to have the right equipment to finish your expedition safely. The gear that you select needs to be appropriate for the weather, terrain, difficulty of the trail and your experience level.

Selecting a Hiking Boot

There are several ways you can select a hiking boot. However, a good rule of thumb is to select a boot that is designed for the type of hiking you plan on doing. Casual hikers, for example, that only tackle low level trails can get by with the lightweight, hiking boots. These boots weigh in around a pound a piece and look like a cross between a hiking boot and a running shoe. The drawback of this type of boot is that they aren't as waterproof as better hiking boots are, and they don't provide your feet and ankles with the stability needed to handle heavy backpacks or extra rough terrain.

The next level of hiking boot is the middleweight hiking boot. This boot typically weighs more than two pounds a piece. These boots are for the average hiker and backpacker. They are great for weekend adventures during the summer months. However, if you plan on an extended backpacking trip, if you plan on exploring extreme environments or if you plan a trip during inclimate weather, then you may want to upgrade your hiking boots.

The top of the line hiking boots are the heavy clompers. These boots weigh in at over five pounds a piece. These boots are designed for hard core backpackers and trekkers. They will provide your feet and ankles with the support that they need, they will keep your feet dry and warm and they will provide you with the traction and versatility that you need for your adventure. They also accommodate strap crampons.

High Altitude Hiking Gear

When you travel into high altitudes there are several pieces of equipment that you are going to need in addition to a great pair of hiking boots. First you will need warmer hiking wear. Weather in high altitudes is colder than you may expect and weather conditions can change rapidly. To stay warm you will need a great jacket, think layers, gloves, a hat and warm thermal underwear. You will also need a great pair of goggle style sunglasses to protect your eyes from solar radiation and the cold. You may also want to bring oxygen with you if you plan on going really high, as well as a GPS locator in case you get lost and need to be rescued. Finally, you can bring with you strap crampons, ice cleats, snow shoes and ski equipment with you to handle snowy and/or icy terrain.

Recreational Hiking Gear

If you are just a recreational hiker then you can experiment with the type of gear that you bring with you on your hiking adventures. Generally a short hiking trip will only require a good pair of hiking boots, a walking stick and a canteen of water. If you are hiking in warm or hot weather then you will also want to wear a hat, wear sunblock with an SPF of at least 30 and a carb rich snack. On the other hand, if you plan a hiking trip during cold weather then you will want to also bring appropriate clothing, ice cleats or snow shoes, matches in a waterproof container, a plastic garbage bag and extra food and water.

All Hikers

No matter what type of hiking adventure you want to go on, it is always a good idea to bring a friend with you. They can be your most valuable piece of hiking gear that you can have. After all if you get injured you have someone to help you out of the backcountry, or someone to go for help. A cell phone is another valuable piece of hiking equipment to bring with you. If you get reception in the area you are hiking you can call for help or update people on where you are and when you plan on returning home. This is very important to do, especially if you change your original plans.

Hiking and backpacking are great ways to traverse the country and explore nature's gifts, but making sure you have the right survival gear for the journey can make that trip even more worthwhile.

Hiking boots are a necessary investment, the only way you can head off on those trails without getting injured, sore or getting tired early on in the trip. Since you want the perfect balance of durability, support and comfort, you'll need a selection strategy to track down your ideal pair. Consider these tips for choosing a high quality hiking boot that will get you through even the most challenging trails and adventures with ease:

1. Wear the right socks: If you're heading off to a rainy or snowy climate, you'll probably wear thick, athletic socks during the trip. This means your hiking boots might be a size larger than usual, so make sure you're trying on the shoes with the same socks you'll be sporting on your travels. Choosing the right socks is another priority - make sure the socks aren't a cotton blend that will quickly soak up moisture; you'll want a pair that can provide plenty of cushioning and keep your toes dry during the trip.

2. Shop for your most challenging terrain: If you're a mountaineering enthusiast or enjoy trekking up steep cliffs and rocky roads, choose the most durable boots that can stand up to the challenge. In this case, you'll want to find boots that can provide extra support and protect your feet from the elements.

3. Go for the leather: Hiking boots can be made with several different types of materials, but leather continues to be one of the most durable and versatile materials available. Leather can keep moisture at bay, is flexible enough to conform to your feet during the steepest climbs, and can trap in heat in colder climates with ease.

4. Leave room for extra padding: Even with the right socks, you might develop a blister or need some extra ankle support during a tough trail. Make sure the hiking boots offer some 'breathing room,' so you can add inserts or bandages without compromising on comfort.

5. Don't compromise on quality: Investing in the correctpair of hiking boots can make the difference between a good trip and a great one. Avoid making a selection based solely on price; you need a pair of boots with Gore-Tex lining, the perfect fit, and high quality leather to get you through your adventure*.*

6. Break them in!: When you've made the final selection, taking the boots for a test drive can help you get comfortable with the feel and fit, and help your legs and feet adjust to the new shape. Wearing the boots for day-to-day activities can help you develop the right posture and balance, so you don't stumble as soon as you set foot on the trail. Roughing it in the great outdoors offers plenty of thrills and adventures, but choosing the right gear can make or break the experience.

Is there anything more relaxing than a long hike? Whether you're hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, the Colorado Rockies or somewhere in between, your stress levels will be greatly reduced. The only thing that may be a bit stressful is finding snacks and meals that will keep you energized during a long hike. Many hikers choose beef jerky, nuts and fruit. But, what if you want food that seems more like a meal and snacks that are a bit more flavorful?

When it comes to snacks for your hike, there are several easy recipes available. If you have a backpack that has a cooler compartment, you could package the ingredients to prepare an easy yogurt parfait recipe. This recipe provides protein, calcium, antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber. In other words, it's the perfect recipe to keep you from tiring out on a long hike.

Keep On Hiking Yogurt Parfait:8 ounce container of fat-free vanilla yogurt, ¼ cup fresh blueberries, ¼ cup fresh raspberries, 2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute, ½ cup granola.

Before going on your hike, place the berries into a sealable container and sprinkle with the sugar/sugar substitute. Next, pour the granola into a zip top bag and place everything into the cooler compartment of your backpack. Don't forget to pack a tall glass to prepare your parfait in, and a plastic spoon. When you get ready to enjoy your parfait, layer the ingredients into the glass and enjoy. Preparing this recipe during the hike will prevent the granola from getting soggy.

When it comes time for lunch, you need a recipe that will provide you with a variety of different vitamins and minerals. One recipe that can provide what you need to finish a long hike is a chicken and pasta salad. This recipe is easy to prepare and is loaded with protein, fiber and light flavors that won't weigh you down on a long hike.

Hike Another Mile Chicken Pasta Salad: 1 cup cooked whole wheat pasta (any shape is fine)<br>3 ounces of seasoned, cooked, and chopped chicken breast (add your favorite flavors), ¼ cup chopped bell pepper, ¼ cup grape tomatoes, 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives, ¼ cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, Cracked black pepper to taste, Sea salt to taste.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken, whole wheat pasta, bell pepper and tomatoes. In a small bowl, combine the chives, olive oil, lemon juice, cracked pepper and salt. Gently combine the two mixtures, package in a sealable container and place in the cooler compartment of your backpack.

A hike doesn't have to consist of boring snacks. You also don't have to prepare a complicated recipe. Instead, prepare a recipe that can be thrown together minutes before heading off to your favorite hiking location. After all, your time should be spent enjoying the hike, rather than slaving over a recipe. And, while they may be easy, these recipes are still impressive enough to invite a special someone to hike along with you.

Mount Rainier is spectacular. This combination of two trails is a must do.

We've hiked much of the United States and some of Canada. How can I pick just one favorite hike? Should I pick the close-encounter-with-the-grizzly-bear hike? Should I pick the most beautiful hike? Should I pick one with ladders? Should I pick the one on which we got lost? I chose the hike about which I'm writing based on what I like best in a hike - variety of sights and terrain.

Mount Rainier National Park has close to 236,000 acres. The mountain is an active volcano with a range in elevation from 1,610 feet to 14,41 feet above sea level. One of the hikes we did in this must see National Park was recommended by a ranger. We intended to only do the first part of the hike called the Comet Falls Trail, which is 3.8 miles round trip with an elevation of 900 feet. The suggested hike time is three hours. However once we were on the trail we were told by several people that we must go on to the Van Trump hike to Trump Park. We did and though we were exhausted I highly recommend that you continue.

This will make the hike about a 2,000 foot elevation gain and take about five hours. Most people it seems don't hike to Trump Park because they aren't aware that there is much more to see. Let's start from the beginning - You'll find the trailhead for Comet Falls four miles east on the road heading toward Paradise. Although the

Their Web site notes that the parking is limited, and that there is no more parkingc so have an alternative hike in mind, don'tgive up so fast!

If you find that the parking area is full drive about a quarter of a mile and you'll see a small parking area on the opposite side of the street. If you drive a bit farther you'll find more places to park. You might get lucky like we did and get a ride back to our car after our hike by people who got a space at the trail head. This trail is strenuous - perhaps the most strenuous we have done, though not the most dangerous. It's a safe trail. You won't have ledges on which to walk or look down to hundreds of feet of air. During our hike to Comet Falls we had the falls on our left much of the time. There were some challenging rocks over which we had to climb; some large branches; and very steep inclines and declines some of which were on pebbles and dirt thus slippery from the mist. The forest kept changing from thick trees to open grass; from shade to sun. The wildflowers were gorgeous. There were patches of them along the way.

One mistake I think some people make is to think that the top of Christine Falls while very pretty is Comet Falls and it is not. You must keep walking to reach Comet Falls. The top of Comet Falls is gorgeous. You'll know it because there is a flat piece of rock that allows you to get very close to the falls and the mist. If it's warm you'll enjoy the moisture. Until you find this landing you haven't reached the top of Comet Falls! After enjoying a refreshing shower in the mist we were energized to continue up the gruesomely difficult though well maintained trail.

The trail was quite steep. You'll find large, high granite steps. There were some boulders that at my 5-feet-4-inches tall I had to sit on to get down them and needed a little help to get up the rocks. You are going to see a sign that says "maintained path is ended." Please keep going. It is very safe and you are not breaking any laws. You will be treated to Van Trump Park and views that are unbelievable. I was a bit concerned that we were sitting on wildflowers but a Ranger who was coming back said it was fine for us to be sitting down.

The area is quite remote so in spite of signs that tell you not to step off the path because you'll kill the flowers you can enjoy this area. I did try to be careful to sit where there was grass rather than flowers. It's a wonderful place to have lunch or a snack. By then you'll need something to eat and drink. Make sure you brink lots of both. Although we stopped in this area, Van Trump Park, a family and a Marine (and the Ranger who was coming back) continued walking. The more you walk the closer you will come to Mount Rainier You will at this point feel as if you can touch Mount Rainier. It was truly one of the most memorable and
spiritual experiences I've had.

Other information culled from : http://www.nps.gov/archive/mora/trail/comet.htm

There are no specific areas for camping but with a permit you can backpack overnight. Check the Web site for weather conditions. The day we were there it was beautiful though be prepared to walk in snow. Fires are not allowed nor are pets.Water must be treated before drinking. Have fun! Please take only pictures, leave only footprints and kill only time.

Sources: www.nps.gov/archive/mora/trail/comet.htm