You are hiking across a thick layer of volcanic debris on top of a lava flow from Mount Rainier, Taxoma (Yakama tribal word for Mount Rainier). Notice the popcorn-sized pumice fragments from an eruption that occurred about 2,200 years ago. A thin soil layer has developed from these volcanic deposits. This volcanic soil drains quickly, erodes easily, and retains little moisture. It’s vital that you stay on the designated trails in this area to avoid trampling the plants that cling to life here. Plants grow by the inch – but die by the foot! Please don’t be a meadow stomper.