Take A Hike

Published 9:00 pm Friday, January 7, 2005

What: A nice low-level winter hike that approaches one of the lowest glaciers in the continental United States.

Where: From Puyallup drive 14 miles east on Highway 410 to Buckley. Turn right onto Highway 165 heading south. Cross the bridge over the Carbon River, then turn left at the Carbon River entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. Go 7 miles to the trailhead at the road’s end at Ipsut Creek Campground. The road can be in bad shape for the last few miles, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Length: 7 miles round trip

Beginning elevation: 2,400 feet

Highest elevation: 3,600 feet

Maps: Green Trails: 269 Mount Rainier West

USGS Quad: Mowich Lake

Notes: The first 2 miles of this trail is a mellow stroll through the forest as you parallel the Carbon River on the Wonderland Trail. At 3 miles, you will intersect the Spray Park junction where you will continue upward to a suspension bridge that crosses over the rushing glacier melt of the Carbon River. After crossing the bridge, hang right and follow the trail as it continues to parallel the river. Views of the north side of Mount Rainier start to open up, and then the Carbon Glacier ends abruptly right near the trail.

Warning: Do not approach the glacier. Rockfalls and icefalls occur constantly. Stay on the trail to listen and watch the glacier’s activity from afar.

You can continue on past the vista for 3.5 more miles and make your way towards Moraine Park, where frozen meadows and expansive views of Mount Rainier’s 3,500 foot Willis Wall and north face are breathtaking. The trail is steep and arduous, and you might encounter deep snow, so be prepared. Call ahead for conditions.

Permits: Mount Rainier entrance fee is $10 for a seven-day pass per vehicle.

More information: Contact the ranger station at 360-569-2211 or online at www.nps.gov/mora. See recent trail reports at www.wta.org.

Scott Harder is owner of Cascade Guiding Services in Snohomish. www.cascadeguide.com