Mt Rainier: 100% snow-covered trails above 5,000 feet

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Mt Rainier: 100% snow-covered trails above 5,000 ft

Melt-out expected in late August

4 Aug 11 - The current snowline is around 4,800-5,000 feet. The park experienced a very heavy snowfall this past winter (2010-2011) and melt-out is not expected until sometime in late August.

Many early summer hikers are not prepared for the route finding challenges encountered by a late snowpack.

History has shown that such heavy snowpack conditions significantly increase search and rescue incidents in the backcountry. Trails may be snow-free at lower elevations but hikers should anticipate 100% snow-covered trails above 5,000 feet.

Always carry a detailed map and compass, and/or GPS, and know how to use them.

http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/trails-and-backcountry-camp-conditions.htm
Thanks to Phil Peterson in Chalfont, PA for this link

"I wonder how Mt Rainier glaciers are doing the last couple years," says Phil. "Didn't see any reference on the park website. Same with Glacier
National Park.