Glacier Basin Trail

 

Glacier Basin Trail

• Distance, round trip: 7 miles
• Elevation gain: 1280 feet
• Hiking time, round trip: 4 hours
• Wilderness camps: Glacier Basin Camp

Trailhead Location

Drive through the White River Entrance Station and continue five miles to the White River Campground. Be sure to park in the hiker/climber day use parking area and not in a campsite. The trail begins at the upper end of the campground.

Trail Description

Although an effort was made to mine copper ore in this area in the late 1800s, nothing of commercial value was ever extracted and mining efforts were eventually suspended.

This route was once an old mining road which was rehabilitated for trail use. It follows the Inter Fork White River for 3.5 miles. At first the ascent is gradual, but becomes steeper on the final section before entering Glacier Basin. A climber's track continues past Glacier Basin camp, passing through an area of fragile wetland plants to the base of the Inter Glacier. Please stay on the trail to protect the vegetation.

Along the Trail

One mile beyond the trailhead is a junction with the Emmons Moraine Trail. This one-mile round-trip spur trail leads to a viewpoint which overlooks the Emmons Glacier, the largest glacier in the 48 contiguous United States. From Glacier Basin, look for mountain goats on the surrounding slopes and climbers ascending the Inter Glacier to Steamboat Prow.

Backpacking

Campsites at Glacier Basin are popular with climbers who are beginning their ascent of Mount Rainier. The sites are located in the trees as one approaches the open meadows of the basin. Permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, visitor centers and on our web site.

Trail Regulations

• Always check current trail conditions before heading out. Current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Check hours of operation.
• Fires are prohibited.
• No pets on trails.
• Treat water before drinking.

 

Pets are not allowed on trails.

At Mount Rainier, pets are NOT allowed on trails, in wilderness and/or off trail areas, inside buildings, in amphitheaters, or on roads closed for winter (service animals excepted). Learn more about pets. 

 

Hiking Safety