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Flett Glacier turns in September

Mount Rainier National Park

Another option for early season powder conditions

Ski Touring Easy

Distance
18 km
Ascent
1.4 km
Descent
1.4 km
Duration
1 day +
Low Point
1.4 km
High Point
2.3 km
Gradient
18˚
Flett Glacier turns in September Map

The Flett Glacier is a good option to go to once you get the first snow of the season. With just a few inches of powder it allows you to make numerous laps without the fear of hitting any rocks. While the approach here is a bit longer than the Muir Snowfield what is lacks in easy access is made up for in scenery and lack of crowds. This was my go to place in late September or October when I was looking to get my first turns of the season or get the dreaded August turns while going for Turns All Year.

Description

Starting at the Mowich lake Trailhead head down to the Spray Park trail and start the long and flat traverse towards Spray Park. While I would never recommend this route if there is lots of snow down low it is perfect if there is a light dusting or no snow in general. Once at Spray falls make your way up the switchbacks before traversing into Spray Park and keep following the main trail for a while slowly gaining elevation. Once just above treeline it is time to start heading South following one of numerous drainages but make sure you are slowly heading Southeast towards Echo Rock.

Before long it will be time to start climbing a bit steeper slopes heading just below Echo Rock. Soon enough you will reach a small moraine and be looking south at the Flett Glacier directly in front of you. This is a great spot to drop of most of your gear before climbing up and taking a few laps.

Once it is time to go, make your way back down to lower Spray park following your trail. Even if there is a bit of snow I don’t recommend riding lower than the glacier if you don’t want core shots. Once back on the Spray Park trail with your ski gear on the pack just follow it back to Mowich lake where your car is waiting.

The only small issue with this ski tour is be prepared for hundreds of people asking why you have skis. I liked to joke that someone lied to me and told me that there was a ski resort up there.

To see my trip in the area and more photos check out this link https://www.whereiskylemiller.com/mt-rainier/flett-glacier/

Difficulty

Easy

Wide gentle slopes at around 20 degrees or less.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

Exposure is limited to that of the slope itself. Getting hurt is still likely if the slope is steep and/or the snow is hard.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Alpine
  • Ski Safari
  • Single Descent

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area