Third Mother Mountain

getting there

From Buckley drive SR 165 to its end thru Wilkeson and Carbonado following signs to Carbon River Ranger Station. Continue five miles to the Ipsut Creek trailhead.

Approach & Ascent

Hike the Ipsut Creek Trail for 0.75 mile to the first stream drainage coming in from the southeast at 2,800 ft. Continue up the trail approximately 100 yards to where the woods open up. Leave the trail and ascend through woods SSW paralleling the stream on your left (keep it in earshot). Reach a cliff band at 3,600 ft. Follow the base of cliff to right several hundred yards to flagging marking a gap. Ascend through the gap and then to the ridge top. Then cross the basin and ascend to the col to right of the summit. The tree-filled gully on the other side of col leads to easy scrambling to summit.

Notes

• Can also be approached from Mowich Lake.
• Rock on final climb is quite good. It is steep and requires caution.
• Recommended leaving pack at notch.
• Some scramblers may need guidance on last pitch.

• Suitable Activities: Scrambling
• Seasons: May, June, July, August, September, October
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Strenuous 4, Technical 5
• Length: 8.0 None
• Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Rainier National Park
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12