Hike description: The Emmons Glacier, on the northeast side of Mount Rainier, is the largest glacier in the lower 48 states when ranked by surface area.
From the White River Campground at Mount Rainier National Park, you’ll take a short hike through the forest to great views of the glacier, Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks on a trail that follows the Inter Fork of the White River. The trail, starting at 4,300 feet, follows the bed of an old mining road. The broad path through the forest then narrows and heads uphill at the point that the floods of 2006 saw the White River overflow its river bed and undermine the river bank.
At one mile, at a signed junction, you will leave the main trail and go to the left on the Emmons Moraine Trail. The trail crosses the Inter Fork on two bridges and then switchbacks up to the ridge overlooking the glacier. When you get to the ridge you will find an abundance of places to stop and savor the views.
You can follow the trail farther along the ridge, being careful to stay within your abilities for finding and following the trail.
Directions: Take state Route 410 to the White River Entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. Drive five miles from the entrance to the White River Campground. Turn left into the campground. Turn left into the picnicking/climbers/day-use parking lot. Follow the signs through the campsites or walk the road to the Glacier Basin Trailhead at the western edge of the campground.
Difficulty rating: 2 (1 is easiest, 5 is most difficult)
Miles round-trip: 3
Elevation: 900 feet
Best time of year: July-October
Map: Green Trails 270 Mount Rainier E or Green Trails 269S Mount Rainier Wonderland
Pass: Mount Rainier National Park annual or day pass or America The Beautiful pass
Also: Restrooms and potable water are located at the park entrance and at White River Campground. The day-use picnic area (complete with fire grates) is situated along the river in the campground. Always carry the 10 Essentials on wilderness travel. This trail can be hot in the summer and well-populated with bugs, so bug spray is recommended.
Info: Mount Rainier National Park, 360-569-2211; www.nps.gov/mora; “Day Hiking Mount Rainier,” Mountaineers Books, lists this trail as Emmons Glacier.
Hike of the Week is presented by The Mountaineers Tacoma Branch Hiking/Backpacking Committee.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION | Register here
We welcome comments. Please keep them civil, short and to the point. ALL CAPS, spam, obscene, profane, abusive and off topic comments will be deleted. Repeat offenders will be blocked. Thanks for taking part — and abiding by these simple rules. A thorough explanation of rules of conduct can be found in our Terms of Service. If you have any questions, including why your comment may not be showing immediately after you submit it, be sure to visit the commenting FAQ.