The most fascinating thing about Mount Rainier is that it is a volcano. In fact, geologists say it is episodically active, which means that it is expected to erupt again sometime in the future. Of all the volcanoes found across the United States, Mount Rainier is the tallest with the fifth highest peak. Although risks exist with a volcanic area, the staff is highly trained and prepared.
Additionally, visitors climbing the summit are required to understand the associated dangers. For example, special training is provided, covering glacial outbursts that can cause flooding, mudslides, damaged roads, and so on. Most experts believe the dangers within this national park are minimal but it is important to understand the risks, as well as to be well informed on taking appropriate action. Keep in mind that the last eruption of Mount Rainier was sometime between 1829 and 1894. In all, it is believed that Mount Rainier has had 14 eruptions, some being just dust clouds and a few rock falls.
Mount Rainier National Park is also the greatest most, glacial system in America. The glaciers reach from the peak of the mountain to the 14,411-foot volcanic slopes. More than 35 square miles of snow and ice cover this summit at all times. Of all the United States’ glaciers, Mount Rainier has the largest surface. Carbon Glacier is listed as the longest, measuring 5.7 miles, the thickest of 700 feet, and the lowest terminus elevation of 3,500 feet.
One of the most spectacular natural shows at Mount Rainier is the glaciers. Just as a volcano, the glaciers produce an amazing display. The glaciers are crucial to this National Park in that the core erodes, which produces steam needed for many of the rivers while also producing water needed for irrigation and hydroelectric power. More than 36 square miles of the mountain is glacier, which accounts for 9% of the park.
What happens with a glacier is that they flow because of gravity coupled with a sliding action over the rocks on which they reside. While to the naked eye it appears glaciers are stationary, during the summers, some have been reported as moving 29 inches a day. This rate is obviously more in the summertime, primarily because of the large amount of melted water at the base of the glacier.
While there are a number or glaciers in Mount Rainier, the one most accessible is the Nisqually Glacier. Situated just one mile from the Paradise visitor, this is an amazing site to see. However, two other excellent glaciers to see include the Emmons Glacier, which is actually the larges area of any glacier in the United States and the Carbon Glacier, which is the thickest glacier, measuring 700 feet in density.