White River Ranger District

Attractions - The White River Ranger District is a picturesque area featuring glacier-cut valleys, snow capped peaks, forested ridges, scenic hiking trails and campgrounds. Bordered on the south by Mt. Rainier National Park, Clearwater Wilderness comprises 14,600 acres and affords many outstanding views. Norse Peak Wilderness is found in the eastern portion of the District and encompasses 51,000 acres.

Some of the popular hiking trails are found within the wildernesses. A few of the trails within the Clearwater Wilderness include the Summit Lake Trail, Frog Mountain Trail, Clearwater Trail, and the Carbon Trail. The Norse Peak Wilderness hosts Arch Rock Trail, Lost Lake Trail, Noble Knob Trail as well as a popular section of the Pacific Crest Trail. The Dalles Campground is found along Hwy. 410.

Recreation - Plenty of recreational opportunities can be found in the White River Ranger District. Hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, picnicking, viewing scenery and wildlife as well as alpine skiing and snowshoeing in the winter are just a few of the activities available to visitors.

Climate - The climate within the White River Ranger District changes drastically with elevation. The area receives a high amount of precipitation. Much of the precipitation comes from October to April in the form of rain at the low elevations and as wet heavy snow in the higher elevations. Deep winter snowpacks accumulate in the high elevations. Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is less frequent. Late spring, summer and early autumn tend to bring clear, sunny days with moderate temperatures.

Location - The White River Ranger District is located in northwestern Washington within the southern portion of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The District is bordered by the North Bend Ranger District to the north, the Wenatchee National Forest to the east, and the Mt. Rainier National Park to the south. The District can be accessed from Seattle via I-5 southbound and then east on State Hwy. 410 towards Mt. Rainier National Park.