Interglacier

The Interglacier sits between Mount Ruth and Steamboat Prow on Mount Rainier's northeast flank, offering one of the longest continuous ski descents in the park. The route follows the Emmons Glacier approach from White River, climbing through glacial terrain to nearly 9,500 feet before dropping 4,000 vertical feet of open skiing.

The approach begins at White River Campground at 4,400 feet. In winter, White River Road is unplowed, adding 9 miles of snowmobile or ski travel before the trailhead. From the road's end, the route follows Glacier Basin Trail for 2 miles, then departs to cross the White River and ascend the lower Emmons moraine. The skin track follows the north side of the Emmons Glacier, climbing steadily through expansive glacial terrain toward Camp Sherman at 10,200 feet. The final push reaches Steamboat Prow, where the Interglacier begins its northeast-facing plunge.

The descent is sustained and open, with 4,000 feet of uninterrupted skiing above treeline before the terrain narrows back toward Glacier Basin. Crevasses are minimal on the north side until the top 500 feet. Stay well clear of Mount Ruth's south face, which funnels avalanche debris across the approach. The exit through Glacier Basin involves bootpacking sections where snow coverage thins.

This is a midwinter objective requiring serious commitment. The 16-mile approach, glacial terrain, and remote setting demand self-sufficiency and good weather judgment. In return, the descent delivers some of the biggest, most open skiing on Rainier, with panoramic views of the Emmons Glacier and surrounding peaks in complete solitude.