Tolmie Peak Lookout - Eunice Lake — Thursday, Jul. 2, 1998

Mount Rainier Area > NW - Carbon River/Mowich

Checked in w/ fully-staffed Wilkeson Ranger Station (red caboose) re: access to trailhead at Mowich Lake & was told road was closed due to snow 2mi from lake; however, found that we could actually park on snow-free road only short distance from Mowich campground (i.e. road NOT gated at Paul Peak trailhead), so road could be fully open soon. Lots of cars at this point, but once on trail, very little traffic (most probably stayed at lake). Trail from Mowich Lk to Eunice Lk in good shape, little wet in places, but very little snow. At Eunice Lk found trail mostly snow covered, but only around lake & outlet - lake itself is pretty much thawed-out. Last mile of trail from Eunice Lk to Tolmie Peak (5939') was snow-free & in great shape, but no views were to be had due to the lousy weather (we were in the clouds all day, from Mowich lake on up). Hung out for an hour at the lookout, but visibility never got better than 50 - 100 yards. On the bright(er) side........ hardly any bugs!!