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Trip Report

Burroughs Mountain, Sourdough Ridge & Fremont Lookout — Monday, Oct. 7, 2024

Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
Crevasses on Winthrop glacier

Now is a great time to visit Sunrise, but be prepared—there are no open facilities. The water is turned off, and bathrooms are closed except for one pit toilet, which had a really long line. Make sure to bring all the water you need, plus extra.

The fall colors are absolutely stunning and currently peaking.

On the Burroughs Mountain Trail, there is some ice in the shaded areas, but no spikes are necessary. The highlight of the trip was reaching the Third Burroughs and taking in the view of Winthrop Glacier. Take a moment to sit quietly and listen to the sounds of the glacier—it’s an unforgettable experience.

Fremont Lookout is boarded up for the season, but the views were spectacular on a clear day. You could see Mount Baker and the North Cascades in the distance.

Wildlife sightings included one bear and a large group of mountain goats. Unfortunately, many people were getting too close to the bear, with a group of about 20 gathering around it. Please respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance to protect both the animals and yourself.

Bear
Mountain Goats
Winthrop glacier towards its terminus
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Comments

kascadia on Sourdough Ridge, Burroughs Mountain, Fremont Lookout

Be aware the road to Sunrise closed today, 10-8-24. One can still access Sunrise via hiking out of the White River Campground, but that's a hike....Access to that campground will close Oct 20. Best to check road status before beginning a potentially long drive. https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/road-status.htm

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kascadia on Oct 08, 2024 06:30 PM

slo go on Sourdough Ridge, Burroughs Mountain, Fremont Lookout

Actually, now is the best time to do Dedge/White River Camp to 2nd Burroughs to Glacier Basin Tr/Freemont Lookout. We have done all 3 in the last 2 years after the Sunrise Rd closes. See virtually no one and it is eerie being at these popular spots with no one around. All have great views and it is obvious why they are so popular. Even better when deserted. Happy Hiking!

Posted by:


slo go on Oct 10, 2024 08:40 AM

BlueGoat on Sourdough Ridge, Burroughs Mountain, Fremont Lookout

Love those telescopic photos! Wonderful shot of the bear with fall colors.

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BlueGoat on Oct 13, 2024 06:41 PM

GoMegaMo on Sourdough Ridge, Burroughs Mountain, Fremont Lookout

Thank you! Looking at the glacier up close is so fun

Posted by:


GoMegaMo on Oct 13, 2024 06:55 PM