This trail stays just outside Mount Rainier National Park, but the highlights of the trek are the outstanding views east to the glaciers that cover the west flank of the big volcano. The trail is relatively flat and open, though at times the tread is rough and brushy--maintenance of the trail is a once-in-a-while occurrence. Fortunately, the path is easy to follow and offers a wonderfully unique view of Mount Rainier. Few people get to see the west face of the mountain from this close. Since the trail is completely outside the park, dogs are welcome on it.

From the trailhead, head east on a short way trail to intercept the main Glacier View Trail in just 0.1 mile, just after entering the Glacier View Wilderness Area. Veer left (north) onto the Glacier View Trail and follow it along a low ridgeline, skirting along the boundary of the wilderness area.

The trail meanders north with gradual change in elevation over the next 1.6 miles. The terrain around the trail includes cool stands of forest and open, sun-drenched hillside meadows. Great huckleberry brambles can be found along the first mile of trail, bringing out berry pickers of both the two-legged variety (humans and birds) and those going on four legs (bears and small mammals).

At about 1 mile, the trail swings west around a knoll before curving back to the east to climb through a low gap for brief views of Mount Rainier. Con-tinue bearing generally north and, at about 1.6 miles, reach a junction with the Lake Helen Trail to the right; stay straight. A rough trail leads left another 0.3 mile to a ridge top. Climb another hundred feet to the 5,450-foot summit of Glacier View--yet another former lookout site. The views stretch out in all directions, but for your own peace of mind, you'll want to stick with the north-, east-, and south-facing views. Look to the west, and the splendor of this hike is lost as you look out over endless acres of clear-cut scars.