We arrived at Ipsut Creek Campground around noon, as planned, to find the parking lots overflowing! Fortunately, the campsites are free, first come first served, and there were numerous openings. We did make use of the picnic table for lunch, so we didn't feel bad about taking the spot for a few hours. The first view of the Carbon River bed is looking downstream towards Ipsut Creek.



Looking upriver, the snout of the Carbon Glacier finally reveals itself. Can you spot the suspension bridge in the first picture? The raging creek in between is Cataract Creek, and just beyond lies a junction with the trail heading to Seattle and Spray Parks, and eventually on to Mowich Lake. Hordes of people crowded the trails, and resulted in a traffic jam at the suspension bridge. With only one person allowed on the bridge at a time, and people on both sides waiting to cross, it took us 10-15 minutes to make it to the other side!



After about and hour and 45 minutes, including the bridge delay, we arrived at the glacier overlook, none the worse for wear. There seemed to be less people here, but probably only because they were spread out over a large area. The glacier itself was very impressive, though certainly not the pure white you see on maps! I imagine it would look very different in the middle of winter. Note the size of the people standing directly in front of the glacier, and they are still a ways from it! We had a nice rest in the sun, a few snacks, and let Alec do a little rock climbing, before heading back down the trail. I grabbed a chunk of snow from one remaining patch near the trail, and kept cool for the next half mile or so.



Rather than endure another long wait to cross the bridge, we decided to take the alternate return route on the other side of the river. This way afforded a great view of the entire bridge with the glacier in the background. The trail itself was in much nicer condition, being smooth with almost no rocks. The woods also seemed a bit more shady, with more lush vegetation. We crossed a few small but refreshing streams on this side. One and a half miles from the glacier brought us to a junction on the Northern Loop Trail, before dropping down to the lower crossing of the river.



We only saw one other hiker on this alternate route, which to me was somewhat surprising, as it only adds 0.2 miles to the journey, and is a much prettier trail. On the other hand, perhaps some people have a phobia about crossing log bridges over muddy rivers. It was just after five o' clock as we were returning to Ipsut Campground, and the angle of the sun through the woods that time of day always makes the setting more dramatic.

This superb hike was just the right distance and elevation gain for a casual day hike, yet still a good workout. In fact, if not for the swarms of other people, I'd give this hike a perfect 10. I would strongly recommend using the alternate longer route in at least one direction, you won't regret it, and you'll forget the extra 0.2 miles. While you're hiking very near the river, listen for the natural rock tumbler in action as the raging waters roll large rocks along the bottom!