Trip report by Monte Windsor.
Well, by the time I got the trip scheduled, the weather had changed and it was raining by the time I left. I was able to drive to the Park boundary, just 1/4 mile short of the trailhead. From the park boundary to the trailhead there was 18" of snow. About a mile and a half up the trail, I got out of the snow and had bare trail 'til I got close to the Mowich River. Snow depth there ranged from a few inches to two feet.
I was alone at the Mowich River Camp and stayed in the shelter. It had a few small leaks, so I pitched my tent inside. I made spaghetti, but since I forgot silverware, I ate it with chopsticks I made myself.
I slept fitfully--It rained heavily all night, but at least I stayed dry. After I ate my oatmeal (with my chopsticks) the rain stopped. I walked out and was able to see vistas that weren't visible the day before. I got a good view of the Mowich River valley and some of the lower mountains flanking Mt. Rainier. I took 2 hours to hike in and hiked out in 2 - 1/2.
Later that year, I let some "friends" talk me into snowshoeing up to Rampart Ridge, on the southwest side of the park, and very different from the Mowich entrance.
Stats: From the park entrance to the lake is about 5 miles. Mowich Lake road is sometimes clear to the park entrance; in heavy winters it is closed many miles before. Elevation at park entrance 3600', at the lake 4929'.
Note: There is significant avalanche danger en route and at Mowich Lake. This is backcountry travel. Trails are often confusing or not evident in the snow. If you are not comfortable with map and compass, or you are not confident in your ability to handle a white-out, don't go.
Getting there: Follow route 165 to the northwest side of the park.
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