Glad to have packed microspikes and poles “just in case” – Mt Defiance got heavy snowfall a few days ago. Quite manageable with good traction shoes until Little Bandera and Mason Lake fork, but the trail to Mason Lake is already icy and sketchy. And the rest of the hike, all the way to Mt Defiance peak is completely snow covered. I had only done this trail to Mason lake or to Little Bandera in the past. Thanks to this challenge, for the first time, went all the way up to Mt Defiance and WOW!!!!!!!! One of the most impressive ridge hike with amazing views of Rainier and Mt Defiance peak offers 360 views! We were lucky as it was such a clear day and we were able to see Mt Rainier, Adams, Baker and even Bellevue and Seattle. A great way to finish the challenge! <3