We headed out for a 2 night trip over Memorial Day weekend. Trip had been planned for a while and based off of the winter/weather we have had the snow level was going to be low. Plus all ranger feedback was that snow was low. So we knew getting to the blue glacier lookout probably wouldn't happen. Elk lake was booked so we spent both Fri and Sat night at Lewis meadows, but it was nice because you could have fires there. On the trail there were a few fun tree bridge crossings along the way with a number of blowdowns but nothing unmanageable. We day hiked from Lewis Meadows as far as we could go on Saturday. Got further that anticipated, making our way over some snowy stretches after Elk Lake and a few avalanche shoots as well. We stopped at a rather sketchy patch of snow on the trail that was on a cliff where one slip would equal disaster possibly death falling down a rocky cliff onto a waterfall. Plus there was a snow bridge that was collapsing before our eyes. It was hard to watch but we saw a few small groups pass without hesitation over the sloped snowed patches. Based off of previous experiences we erred on the side of caution and stopped there. It was hard to stop a little over a mile from lookout but I didn't think it was worth the risk. Based off what kids coming back said, we stopped just before the rope ladder, which is up and Glacier meadows was a wet snow field. Considering we weren't even sure we would get past Elk lake because of snow the amazing views our last mile or so we're totally worth it. I'll just have to do it again later in the summer. With a 13 mile day sat, it was about a 35 mile hike total. With all the sun we have had, I bet that by next weekend you'll be able to get to glacier meadows no problem.

A group of friends and I did a 3 day, 2 night backpacking trip to Blue Glacier. It's not every day that you get to walk from a rainforest to a glacier, and it was amazing! There are quite a few ways to do this hike in terms of where to camp. We decided we didn't want to get a camping permit that is required for the highest 3 camps towards the glacier (Martin Creek Stock Camp, Elk Lake, Glacier Meadows), so we camped at Lewis Meadows for both nights and did a day trip to the glacier with smaller daypacks (which is really nice considering the ~4000 ft elevation gain from Lewis Meadows to the glacier). You do need a general backcountry permit ($5/person/night) that you can self register for at the Hoh Visitor Center at the trailhead. We were very lucky with the weather as we had warm days/nights and blue skies our entire trip. The rainforest is stunning with all its shades of green as you walk along the river for about 11 miles to Lewis Meadows camp. All of the camps along the river seemed really nice. You can camp at designated campsites under the trees, or almost anywhere on the gravel bar, which we decided to do in order to stay away from the mosquitos. Our day hike up to the glacier was a tough one (about 22 miles round trip to both the lateral and terminal views). The hike to the lateral view is longer and more strenuous, but it's definitely worth it. The terminal view is a different perspective of the glacier and it's quite a view as well. There are several water sources hiking up to the glacier.

Great trip out to the Blue Glacier, we camped at Elk Lake and day tripped out there. The weather was great and so were all the views. The trail was in great condition, not problems crossing any streams.

Five friends and I took three days to climb Mount Olympus via the Blue Glacier. We camped at the trailhead on Thursday night (plenty of campsites available at the Hoh River Trailhead without a reservation), and then hiked to Glacier Meadows the next day to establish our base camp. The campsites are great and close to a water source. They are also conveniently equipped with bear wire, so bear canisters are not necessary. The next morning we woke up around 5:45AM and started the climb in earnest at 7:00AM. While crossing the Blue Glacier, we identified many small crevasses, so if attempting this route, proceed with caution. We took a long break at Snow Dome to fuel up and assess the route. We saw several relatively fresh boot tracks heading in different directions. Based on our review of the climbing guide for Mount Olympus, we followed the boot tracks that traversed left from Snow Dome and around the back side of the false summit. Once we reached the summit block, we took ropes and crampons off and took only light packs with us, leaving heavier gear at the base of the summit. There is a nice ramp to follow to a corner that we all felt was quite exposed. A climber in our party set up a belay station at this corner to protect climbers from a potential fall. Once past this corner, the way to the summit is a slightly exposed scramble. It took us roughly 7 hours from the camp to summit. After signing the summit register, we rappelled back down to the rocky ramp to return to our gear. There is an anchor already in place to do this. We were making excellent time on the descent back to camp; however, thick fog caused some issues while crossing the glacier. Low visibility caused us to lose sight of our boot path. It took about an hour of fumbling around to find the ridgeline where we descended onto the glacier that morning. Wands would have definitely come in handy here. Fortunately, we didn't wander too far of course and the ridgeline came into view momentarily which was enough for us to navigate back to it. We were back at our campsite after 13.5 hours. A few things to note: (1) Immediately before reaching the Glacier Meadows campsite, there is a major washout. A ladder has been set up to navigate through it. It is challenging both going down and up the ladder so watch your footing. (2) If you are attempting this climb in three days, pack as light as you can. Trust me, your feet will thank you. It was a grueling few days, but definitely doable. That said, even if attempting this climb in three days, pack enough food for four. (3) Wear approach shoes and bring mountaineering boots. Again, your feet will thank you. (4) Consider placing wands to help you navigate back to the trail after the climb. The fog can really disorient you and throw you off course. A GPS tracker would also be helpful. This was an amazing and challenging climb! We all made it back safe and sound and in time to see the Fourth of July fireworks.