Carbon Glacier Trail

A map of the Carbon Glacier Trail route from the Carbon River entrance at northwest corner of park. Use of a topographic map of area is recommended.

 

Trail Description:

	Carbon Glacier
Distance, round-trip:	17 miles
Elevation gain:	1640 feet
Hiking time, round-trip:	9 hours
Wilderness camps:	Ipsut Creek Carbon River

This is the best trail to experience a glacier first hand. The trail follows the Carbon River through the forest to the snout of the glacier. Beware of rocks falling from the glacier snout. Do not approach the glacier -- enjoy the view from the constructed trail.

The trail begins now at the Carbon River entrance at the northwest border of the park because flooding altered the roadbed.

After reaching Ipsut Creek Campground, the first three miles of the trail maintains a gentle uphill grade as it parallels the Carbon River. Soon after meeting the trail to Seattle Park, the Wonderland Trail crosses the river on a suspension bridge just below the snout of the Carbon Glacier. A right turn after crossing the bridge leads hikers to the glacier.

Along the
Trail:

This hike offers a close-up view of the lowest glacier in elevation in the contiguous 48 states and the source of the Carbon River. Do not approach the glacier as rock and ice fall are common!

Backpacking:

Two camps are located along this trail, at 5 miles (Ipsut Creek) and 8 miles (Carbon River) from the trailhead at the Carbon River Ranger Station. Backcountry permits are required for camping. Permits and current trail conditions are available park-wide from wilderness information centers, ranger stations, and visitor centers. Fires are prohibited. No pets on trails. Treat water before drinking.