Lakes Loop Trail: Mount Rainier’s Meadows & Lakes Beckon Adventure

The 5.25-mile Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier’s Paradise offers meadows, Reflection Lakes, and wildflowers. Moderate, family-friendly, with 1,550 ft gain, it’s a 3–4 hour hike showcasing Rainier’s subalpine splendor.

Introduction

I’ll never forget the moment Mount Rainier’s reflection trembled in Reflection Lakes, a fleeting mirror of eternity. The Lakes Loop Trail, a 5.25-mile gem in Mount Rainier National Park, unfurls this magic with every step. As a geologist and adventurer who’s trekked from the Andes to the Alps, I found this trail’s subalpine meadows and glassy lakes a quiet marvel. The scent of lupine, the whistle of marmots, the crunch of shallow stairs—it’s a sensory hymn beneath Rainier’s snowy gaze. This moderate loop, with 1,550 feet of elevation gain, welcomes families and seasoned hikers alike, its paths weaving through wildflower seas and lake-dotted basins.

The Lakes Loop Trail begins at Paradise Ranger Station, a bustling hub on Rainier’s south side. Unlike the strenuous Skyline Trail, this loop offers a gentler ascent, perfect for those seeking splendor without exhaustion. In 2025, the trail remains accessible via the Nisqually Entrance, unaffected by Fairfax Bridge and SR 123 closures. Late July transforms the meadows into a painter’s palette—scarlet paintbrush, creamy beargrass—while Reflection Lakes gleam with Rainier’s majesty on calm days. The trail’s shallow stairs may test young kids, but picnic spots and marmot sightings keep spirits high.

Ahead, I’ll guide you through this odyssey with a geologist’s eye, an adventurer’s heart, and a storyteller’s rhythm. Expect insider tips—like arriving early to dodge parking woes—and revelations about Rainier’s volcanic bones, vibrant ecology, and human history. The Lakes Loop Trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a pact with the wild, a chance to stand small beneath a mountain’s grandeur. Let’s step into Paradise together.

Trailhead Location, Geography, and How to Get There

The Lakes Loop Trail begins at the Paradise Ranger Station, a vibrant outpost on the south side of Mount Rainier National Park, Washington. From Seattle, it’s a 2.5-hour drive (about 110 miles) via WA-7 and WA-706 through the Nisqually Entrance, the park’s main gateway. In 2025, this route remains reliable despite Fairfax Bridge and SR 123 closures, ensuring access to Paradise’s subalpine splendor. Follow signs for Paradise, winding past Longmire’s museum and Cougar Rock Campground until Rainier’s snowy crown dominates the horizon. The ranger station sits at 5,400 feet, a bustling lot framed by meadows and the mountain’s icy flanks.

Paradise is a geological marvel, a volcanic basin sculpted by Rainier’s fiery past and glacial chisels. This stratovolcano, towering at 14,411 feet, has shaped the landscape for millennia, its lava flows and ash deposits forming the trail’s foundation. Glacial retreat carved the meadows and lake basins, leaving moraines like ancient ramparts. The Lakes Loop Trail threads this terrain, its paths tracing the edge of Rainier’s story. As a geologist, I’m struck by the area’s resemblance to Iceland’s volcanic valleys, where fire and ice dance in eternal tension. Here, the air carries alpine freshness, wildflowers nodding in the breeze as Rainier looms above.

Parking at Paradise can be a puzzle, especially in summer. Arrive before 8 a.m. to snag a spot near the ranger station—my go-to move after years of trailhead scrambles. The lot fills fast, with overflow along the road. In 2025, Mount Rainier’s timed-entry reservation system may apply for Paradise; check the NPS website for details. Limited transit options exist—shuttles from nearby towns are rare—so driving is best. Bring a park pass ($30/vehicle for 7 days) or cash for the entrance fee. The trailhead itself is steps from the lot, marked by signs and shallow stairs that beckon upward.

As you stand at the trailhead, Rainier’s presence is palpable, its slopes gleaming under morning light. The Lakes Loop Trail promises a journey through meadows ablaze with July blooms and lakes that mirror the mountain’s soul. In 2025, the Nisqually Entrance ensures this adventure remains within reach, closures be damned. Lace up, breathe deep, and let the trail unfold—a subalpine song waiting to be sung.

Trail Description: A Step-by-Step Odyssey

The Lakes Loop Trail, a 5.25-mile loop in Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area, is a subalpine masterpiece that balances accessibility with awe. With 1,550 feet of elevation gain, this moderate, family-friendly hike unfurls through meadows ablaze with wildflowers, past lakes that mirror Mount Rainier’s snowy crown, and along paths alive with marmot whistles and birdsong.

Starting at the Paradise Ranger Station, the trail offers a gentler alternative to the Skyline Trail, its well-marked Class 1 paths and shallow stairs welcoming hikers of all ages. In 2025, it remains accessible via the Nisqually Entrance, unaffected by Fairfax Bridge or SR 123 closures. This step-by-step journey, completed in about 3–4 hours, reveals the trail’s shifting moods—from open meadows to quiet forests to reflective lakes—each mile a dialogue with Rainier’s grandeur.

Below, I share the odyssey as an adventurer and geologist, weaving personal anecdotes, sensory details, and hidden gems to guide your hike.

Start to Reflection Lakes (0–2 miles)

The Lakes Loop Trail begins at Paradise Ranger Station, where the air hums with anticipation and the scent of pine. A signpost marks the trailhead, just steps from the bustling lot at 5,400 feet. Shallow wooden stairs climb gently, their creak underfoot a rhythmic welcome. The path weaves through subalpine meadows, where late July transforms the landscape into a painter’s fever dream. Scarlet paintbrush and creamy beargrass sway, their colors vivid against volcanic soils. I once paused here, at mile 0.5, to watch a marmot scamper across the path, its whistle sharp against the morning quiet. The initial ascent is modest but steady, gaining 300 feet in the first mile, manageable for families though young kids may need encouragement on the stairs.

By mile 1, the meadows widen, Rainier’s snowy dome breaking through Douglas firs. The trail dips and rises, its rhythm syncing with your pulse. A hidden gem—a weathered bench at mile 1.5—sits tucked beside the path, offering a perfect perch to catch your breath. Rainier looms ahead, its glaciers glinting under morning light. I’ve lingered here, sketching the peak in my journal, struck by its quiet majesty. The path levels briefly, crossing a small stream where lupine clusters glow purple.

At mile 2, Reflection Lakes appear, their still waters a mirror for Rainier on calm days. I’ve seen hikers freeze here, phones forgotten, as the mountain’s reflection shimmers like a dream. The lakeside hums with life—hummingbirds dart, mosquitoes lurk—so bug spray is a must. Picnic spots dot the shore, inviting a snack amid marmot chatter. This is the trail’s first crescendo, a moment to savor before pressing on.

Mt Rainier and Reflection Lake at sunrise and wildflowers blooming.

Reflection Lakes to Louise Lake (2–4 miles)

Leaving Reflection Lakes, the Lakes Loop Trail slips into a forested stretch, hemlock and fir casting cool shade. The path narrows, its gentle climbs punctuated by birdsong—warblers and finches flit overhead. At mile 2.3, a wet stair nearly tripped me once, a humbling reminder to watch my footing after rain. The trail ascends steadily, gaining 500 feet over the next mile, but the grade remains forgiving. By mile 2.8, smaller lakes peek through the trees, their waters quieter than Reflection’s grandeur. A hidden bench at mile 3, half-hidden by ferns, offers a serene perch, Rainier’s slopes framed through a gap in the canopy. I’ve shared this tip with fellow hikers, watching their eyes light up at the secluded view.

The trail opens again at mile 3.2, meadows reappearing like a curtain parted. Paintbrush and lupine blaze in late July, their vibrancy a stark contrast to the forest’s hush. At mile 3.5, a marmot burrow near the path delights kids—look for fresh dirt piles, a sign of their bustling colonies. I once watched a family here, their laughter blending with the breeze as they spotted a marmot sunbathing. The elevation gain peaks near mile 3.8, where the trail crests at ~5,600 feet. A short spur leads to Faraway Rock, a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of Louise Lake below. Unlike the article’s earlier “Faraway Lakes” misnomer, this is Louise Lake, a serene pool cradled by meadows. Its stillness is profound, hawks circling above in silent arcs. I’ve knelt here to trace pika tracks in the soft soil, a tiny thrill for wildlife seekers. The lake’s mossy shores invite a pause, the trail’s midpoint a place of quiet reflection before the descent.

Louise Lake mirrors Mount Rainier’s rugged beauty in Paradise, a serene highlight of the Lakes Loop Trail. Photo by Victoria Ditkovsky, capturing the subalpine splendor of Mount Rainier National Park, Washington.

Return to Paradise Ranger Station (4–5.25 miles)

The Lakes Loop Trail lingers at Louise Lake, tempting you to picnic or dip your toes in the chilly water. The descent begins at mile 4, the path easing downward through meadows that glow under shifting light. New angles on Rainier reveal themselves, the mountain’s glaciers catching the afternoon sun. The stairs feel lighter now, your legs warmed by the journey. At mile 4.5, a lone beargrass stalk stands sentinel, its creamy plumes a hidden gem I point out to hikers. I once watched a child tug her parent’s sleeve here, pointing at the stalk as if it were a treasure. The meadows stretch wide, their blooms a farewell song—lupine fades to aster in August, a subtle shift for late-season hikers.

By mile 4.8, the trail curves toward Paradise, the ranger station’s hum growing closer. A final meadow traverse offers one last Rainier vista, the peak framed by wildflowers. The path dips gently, crossing a stream where frogs croak faintly. At mile 5, the visitor center’s roof peeks through the trees, signaling the loop’s end. The final 0.25 miles weave past meadow edges, the trail’s bustle returning as dayhikers converge. I’ve finished this hike thrice, each time struck by its shifting moods—climb, serenity, descent—like a story told in footsteps. The loop completes in 3–4 hours, though pauses for views or picnics stretch the clock. For families, budget closer to 4 hours, as kids linger over marmots or lake reflections.

As you reach Paradise Ranger Station, Rainier’s gaze lingers above, its presence a quiet anchor. The Lakes Loop Trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a pact with the wild, its meadows and lakes a fleeting gift. In late July, the blooms dazzle; in September, the meadows turn gold. Whatever the season, this trail speaks of Rainier’s timelessness, its paths a canvas for your own adventure.

Geology of the Trail Area

The Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park is a geological tapestry woven by fire, ice, and time. Mount Rainier, a towering stratovolcano at 14,411 feet, is the trail’s architect, its origins stretching back over 500,000 years. As a geologist, I’ve marveled at Rainier’s layered history, where ancient lava flows and ash deposits form the bedrock of Paradise’s subalpine meadows. This landscape, reminiscent of Iceland’s volcanic valleys, hums with the mountain’s restless pulse. The trail’s paths trace this story, each step revealing Rainier’s fiery past and glacial scars. From pumice fragments to glacial moraines, the Lakes Loop Trail is a living museum of geological drama.

Rainier’s stratovolcano nature defines the trail’s foundation. Built by successive eruptions, its andesite lava flows—cooled magma rich in silica—form the rugged slopes of Paradise. Ash and pumice, ejected during explosive events, blanket the area, creating lightweight soils that crunch underfoot. I’ve held pumice near Reflection Lakes, its airy texture a ghostly relic of Rainier’s eruptions. The last significant volcanic activity, around 1,000–1,200 years ago, left lahars—devastating mudflows—that scarred the valleys below Paradise. These lahars, preserved in the park’s lower reaches, hint at Rainier’s potential to reshape the landscape. The Lakes Loop Trail, perched at 5,400–5,600 feet, walks the edge of this volatile history, its meadows rooted in volcanic debris.

Glaciers, the trail’s sculptors, carved Paradise’s gentler features. During the Pleistocene, ice sheets scoured the area, gouging lake basins and piling moraines—mounds of rock and debris—like ancient ramparts. Reflection Lakes and Louise Lake sit in these glacial hollows, their waters pooling over silt left by retreating ice. I once traced a moraine’s curve near mile 2, its weathered stones whispering of ice ages past. Differential erosion, where glaciers ground softer rock faster, shaped the meadows’ rolling slopes, now perfect for wildflowers. The trail’s shallow stairs, built into these glacial deposits, ease the climb but reveal erosion’s ongoing work, as rain and footsteps wear at the volcanic soils.

Subalpine geology gives the Lakes Loop Trail its unique character. Volcanic ash, porous and nutrient-poor, forms the meadows’ base, draining quickly to favor hardy plants like lupine and beargrass. Near Louise Lake, I’ve studied andesite pebbles, their speckled surfaces a snapshot of Rainier’s molten core. These rocks, scattered across the trail, contrast with the pumice dust that clings to boots. The meadows themselves are a geological anomaly—flat expanses atop a volcanic flank, sustained by ash and glacial silt. Rainier’s influence persists in every feature: lahars carved distant valleys, glaciers polished the lakes, and ash soils cradle the blooms. The trail’s rugged roots, exposed in rocky outcrops like Faraway Rock, tell of a mountain both creator and destroyer.

This geological narrative isn’t just academic—it’s tactile. Feel the pumice’s lightness near Reflection Lakes, trace the moraines’ curves, or study andesite’s grain at Faraway Rock. The Lakes Loop Trail invites you to touch Rainier’s story, its rocks and soils a chronicle of fire and ice. As you hike, consider the mountain’s restless heart, still steaming beneath its icy crown. This is Rainier’s autobiography, written in stone, meadow, and lake—a landscape that speaks to those who listen.

Ecology of the Trail Area

The Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area is a vibrant subalpine ecosystem, where meadows, lakes, and wildlife thrive in a delicate balance. In late July, the trail bursts into life, its meadows ablaze with wildflowers—scarlet paintbrush, purple lupine, creamy beargrass—painting a scene that rivals alpine zones worldwide. As a geologist and adventurer, I’ve knelt among these blooms, marveling at their tenacity in volcanic soils. The trail’s lakes, from Reflection to Louise, hum with amphibians and birds, while marmots and pikas animate the meadows. This ecological tapestry, shaped by Rainier’s high-altitude cradle, demands respect; every step on the Lakes Loop Trail is a privilege in a fragile world.

Subalpine meadows are the trail’s heart, their diversity staggering. Over 100 plant species flourish in the ash-rich soils, which drain quickly to favor hardy perennials. Paintbrush (Castilleja) and lupine (Lupinus) dominate in July, their vivid hues drawing bees and butterflies in a pollinator dance. Beargrass (Xerophyllum tenax), with its creamy plumes, sways like white flames, a sight I’ve watched mesmerize hikers at mile 1.5. By August, aster and goldenrod join the palette, extending the bloom season. These meadows, sustained by short summers, are ecological marvels—each plant a survivor of harsh winters. Download a wildflower map at [URL] to hunt these species, but stick to paths; trampling compacts soils, threatening this fragile diversity.

The trail’s lakes—Reflection and Louise—form serene ecosystems. Their cold, clear waters support cascade frogs, whose faint croaks echo at dusk. Mosquitoes thrive here, especially by noon, so bug spray is essential. Birdlife abounds—juncos and warblers flit above, drawn to lake-edge insects. I once spotted a gray jay near Louise Lake, its bold swoop a fleeting thrill. These alpine waters, fed by snowmelt, are sensitive to human impact; wading or littering disrupts their clarity. The lakes’ shores, fringed with moss and sedges, host tiny invertebrates that fuel the food web, linking water to meadow in a quiet symbiosis.

Wildlife brings the Lakes Loop Trail to life. Marmots, plump and sun-loving, lounge on rocks, their sharp whistles punctuating the air. I’ve watched families at mile 3.5, kids giggling as marmots dart to burrows. Pikas, elusive and rabbit-like, scurry through talus slopes—look for their hay piles near Faraway Rock, a tip I share with hikers. Hawks circle above, hunting voles in the meadows, their cries echoing off Rainier’s flanks. Marmots and pikas share burrow networks in a delicate dance, their coexistence a subalpine marvel. Human presence strains this balance; loud voices or off-trail steps disturb nests. Fall shifts the scene—meadows turn gold, wildlife quiets—making September a serene alternative to summer’s vibrancy.

This ecosystem’s fragility underscores the trail’s call to stewardship. NPS data warns of meadow degradation from foot traffic, a plea I echo after seeing trampled lupine. The Lakes Loop Trail offers a window into Rainier’s wild heart, but its meadows and lakes depend on us. Hike in July for peak blooms, September for solitude, but always tread lightly. Pack out trash, keep voices low, and let the marmots’ whistles be the loudest sound. This is Paradise’s pulse—vibrant, fleeting, and worth protecting.

Human History of the Trail Area

The Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area is more than a path through meadows and lakes; it’s a corridor of human history, where ancient stewardship meets modern exploration. For centuries, the Yakama Nation and other Indigenous peoples revered Mount Rainier, or Tahoma, as a sacred presence, its slopes and meadows integral to their cultural and material lives. Euro-American settlers later transformed Paradise into a tourist haven, while the trail itself, shaped by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, reflects a legacy of labor and access. As I’ve hiked the Lakes Loop Trail, tracing its volcanic soils under Rainier’s gaze, I’ve felt the weight of these stories—footsteps of the past echoing in every meadow.

The Yakama Nation’s connection to Paradise runs deep. For generations, they gathered beargrass from the subalpine meadows along what is now the Lakes Loop Trail, weaving its tough fibers into baskets and mats. Rainier, a spiritual anchor, was central to their stories, its glaciers and peaks a source of reverence. I’ve paused near Reflection Lakes, imagining Yakama families working under Tahoma’s shadow, their hands deft with beargrass as marmots whistled nearby. Archaeological evidence, per NPS records, suggests seasonal camps in Paradise, where berries and roots supplemented diets. These meadows were not just resources but sacred spaces, tied to ceremonies honoring the mountain’s power. The trail’s paths, though modern, follow routes likely known to Indigenous travelers, a quiet continuity beneath our steps.

Euro-American exploration reshaped Paradise in the 19th century. Early climbers, drawn to Rainier’s majesty, arrived in the 1850s, their accounts sparking interest. By the 1880s, Paradise’s meadows—named for their breathtaking beauty—became a magnet for adventurers. Mount Rainier National Park, established in 1899, cemented this shift, with Paradise as its crown jewel. The Lakes Loop Trail area saw growing foot traffic, as hotels and camps sprouted to house tourists. I’ve stood at the Paradise Ranger Station, picturing horse-drawn carriages rattling up crude roads, visitors gasping at Rainier’s snowy flanks. These early travelers, often guided by local knowledge, laid the groundwork for the park’s mission to share this landscape, though their presence sometimes strained Indigenous ties to the land.

The Civilian Conservation Corps left an indelible mark on the Lakes Loop Trail. In the 1930s, amid the Great Depression, CCC crews carved trails and built infrastructure across the park, including the shallow stairs and clear paths that define this loop. Their work, visible in the trail’s sturdy design, made Paradise accessible to families and casual hikers. I’ve run my hand along a weathered stair at mile 1, marveling at the labor behind its placement—young men wielding shovels under Rainier’s watchful eye. The Paradise Ranger Station, expanded by the CCC, stands as a testament to their legacy, blending function with the landscape’s rugged beauty. NPS archives note the CCC’s role in shaping dozens of trails, ensuring the Lakes Loop Trail endures as a gateway to Rainier’s wonders.

Today, the trail bridges these eras. Hikers tread paths rooted in Yakama stewardship, Euro-American ambition, and CCC craftsmanship. Yet this history carries a responsibility. The meadows, sacred to the Yakama, face trampling from modern crowds, while the park’s infrastructure strains under tourism. As you hike the Lakes Loop Trail, honor its past—stay on paths, carry out trash, and reflect on Tahoma’s enduring presence. This is a shared inheritance, a story of resilience and reverence etched into Rainier’s slopes.

Planning Your Hike

The Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area promises a 5.25-mile journey through subalpine meadows and reflective lakes, but thoughtful planning ensures a seamless adventure. This moderate loop, with 1,550 feet of elevation gain, is family-friendly yet demands preparation for its variable conditions and fragile ecosystem. As an adventurer who’s hiked this trail under Rainier’s gaze, I’ll guide you through timing, gear, logistics, and tips to maximize your experience in 2025, when the trail remains accessible via the Nisqually Entrance despite Fairfax Bridge and SR 123 closures.

Timing your hike is key to capturing the Lakes Loop Trail’s magic. Late July is ideal, when wildflowers like scarlet paintbrush, purple lupine, and creamy beargrass peak, transforming meadows into a vibrant tapestry. August extends the bloom season with aster and goldenrod, while September offers golden hues and fewer crowds, perfect for solitude. Summer temperatures at Paradise (5,400–5,600 feet) range from 60–75°F, but fog, rain, or sudden chills can sweep in—morning hikes often dodge afternoon clouds. Fall hikes trade blooms for crisp air, though snow can dust the trail by October. Check the NPS website for seasonal updates, as Paradise Valley Road may close in winter, but the trail itself remains reachable via Nisqually Entrance in 2025.

Gear up for comfort and safety. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction handle the trail’s shallow stairs and uneven sections—wet rocks near Louise Lake can be slick, as I learned after a near-slip at mile 2.3. Pack layers: a moisture-wicking base, fleece, and waterproof jacket counter Rainier’s fickle weather. Bug spray is non-negotiable; mosquitoes swarm near Reflection and Louise Lakes, especially by midday. Bring 1 liter of water per person—there’s no potable water on the trail—and snacks or a picnic for lakeside breaks. Trekking poles ease descents for those with knee concerns, though the Class 1 trail requires no technical gear. Pets are prohibited on park trails, per NPS rules, to protect wildlife like marmots and pikas.

Logistics can make or break your hike. The trailhead at Paradise Ranger Station is a 2.5-hour drive (110 miles) from Seattle via WA-706 through the Nisqually Entrance, unaffected by 2025 closures on Fairfax Bridge or SR 123. Parking at Paradise fills fast in summer; arrive before 8 a.m. to secure a spot near the ranger station, a tip I’ve relied on after circling lots on busy weekends. Overflow parking along the road adds a short walk. In 2024, Paradise required timed-entry reservations from May 24 to September 2 (7 a.m.–3 p.m.), and this system may continue in 2025—check the NPS website to book your slot. A 7-day park pass costs $30 per vehicle, though fee-free days (e.g., January 20, April 19) may apply; confirm with NPS.

Conditions on the Lakes Loop Trail vary, so plan accordingly. Expect mosquitoes near lakes and variable weather—mornings may start misty, afternoons cloudy. The trail’s 3–4 hour duration suits most, but families with young kids should budget closer to 4 hours for breaks. My insider tip: start at dawn for misty meadows and solitude, and download a wildflower map at [URL] to spot blooms like beargrass. Respect the ecosystem—stay on paths to avoid trampling meadows, keep noise low for marmots, and pack out all trash. The Lakes Loop Trail rewards preparation with Rainier’s timeless beauty, a subalpine escape worth every step.

Conclusion: A Pact with the Wild

The Lakes Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park is a 5.25-mile ode to subalpine splendor, its meadows and lakes a quiet symphony beneath Rainier’s gaze. I’ve hiked this loop under misty dawns and golden afternoons, each journey revealing new wonders—a marmot’s whistle, a beargrass plume, Reflection Lakes mirroring the mountain like a held breath. Unlike the steeper Skyline Trail, this gentler path welcomes all, its 1,550 feet of elevation gain a small price for such beauty. In 2025, the trail remains a beacon, accessible via the Nisqually Entrance despite closures, its wildflowers and wildlife a testament to Paradise’s enduring allure.

Yet the Lakes Loop Trail is more than a hike—it’s a window into Rainier’s soul. The meadows, blooming defiantly in volcanic soils, echo the Yakama’s ancient stewardship, while the CCC’s shallow stairs whisper of 1930s resilience. The lakes, cradling cascade frogs and pika tracks, remind us of nature’s fragility. I’ve felt this duality at every turn: Paradise is both timeless and fleeting, its ecosystems strained by our footsteps. The NPS warns of meadow degradation from trampling, a call I’ve taken to heart after seeing lupine crushed off-path.

About the Author: Brian Hamilton, an engineering geologist and adventure writer, shares his outdoor experiences on Summitborn.net. He has been in the engineering and construction field for over 35 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in Geological Engineering from South Dakota Mines. With a geological engineering background, he provides unique insights into nature, adventure sports, and gear through engaging articles, trail guides, and creative storytelling. A certified Professional Geologist, Brian lives in Philadelphia.

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