About a mile and a half from the Carbon Glacier we find ourselves along the river once again and will continue along her edges for the remainder of the hike. This is the best view of Mt. Rainier on this trail, the snow in front is the top of the Carbon Glacier. As you get closer, Mt. Rainier almost disappears behind the glacier and the surrounding hills. The trail follows the base of the mountain on the right until 1/2 mi from the glacier. (Taken in Nov. of 2004...can't get there now. From what I hear, the road to this trailhead at the Ipsut Creek Campground isn't expected to be repaired until next summer at the earliest.) Update...June 2007. Discussion of the repair of the Carbon River Rd. is still in the works. As of now it is still closed at the entrance to the park. Some say that it's a waste of funds to keep fixing this road. I am in the group that says too much is lost if they don't. It would no longer be a day hike to reach the face of the Carbon Glacier and other places that can be enjoyed year-round. This year is out of the question...maybe next summer. :(
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