Bertha May and Granite Lakes is one of my favorite “skip the Rainier crowds” hikes—an easy, super rewarding alpine lake outing just outside Mount Rainier National Park that lets you dodge the timed entry headache while still getting that classic mountain-lake vibe. From the Teeley Creek Trailhead, the trail climbs gradually through a mix of clearcut views and gorgeous old-growth sections, with a quick stop at Pothole Lake before the steeper push up to Bertha May. When you hit the shoreline, it’s an instant payoff: blue-green water, big granite walls rising above the lake, floating logs drifting around, and a bunch of solid campsites if you want to make it an overnight (no permits needed, first come first served). If you’ve got the energy, keep going another short half-mile to Granite Lake—this one’s the best for a swim thanks to the sandy shoreline, and on clear days you’ll catch peeks of Mount Rainier through the trees. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly (leash), and a perfect low-effort option when you want alpine scenery without committing to a huge day.