Glacier Basin Hike on Mt Rainier

Last night we camped at the White River Campground at Mt Rainier National Park, 

so we could have another day of hiking on the mountain. 

The trailhead is on the far side of the campground, so no need to drive.

We continued hiking awhile beyond Glacier Basin Camp,

so our hike today was 9 miles with 2200 ft elevation gain.

After a nice 1 mile hike through the forest, there is a side trail (Emmons Morraine Trail) to overlook the Emmons Glacier (the largest glacier in the lower 48 states).

We thought this 1 mile round trip spur trail was worth the extra time.

The lower portion of the Emmons glacier is covered in rocky debris (moraine),

 note the White River coming out of the ice cave in the lower left corner of the photo.

We continued on the main trail, which follows the Inter Fork section of the White River.

Most of this hike was in the forest (wonderful on this very hot day) 

but we did get some fabulous views of the Mountain

We decided to continue hiking beyond the end of the "maintained" trail after Glacier Basin Camp,

up towards St Elmo Pass seen in the background 

We climbed to the top of this ridgeling which climbs about 400 ft above Glacier Basin Camp

This was a great spot to see Inter Glacier and the source of the White River.

We thought this ridge was very steep climbing up and descending.

Another marvelous day on Mt Rainier!