Lower Slopes of Mt Rainier, WA

Mudslides

Mudslides are a major hazard on the lower slopes of Mt Rainier due to the weak soils and high volume of rainfall and snow.

Deer - all go ooohhhh aaaahhhh now

Natural groundwater spring - Alpine meadow, Longmire

Origin of the Mineral Springs

For those interested (I am studying groundwater problems for my PhD at the moment), the sign says :
Water from rain and snow melting on the upper slopes of Mt Rainier percolates down through fractures in volcanic rock where it is hydrothermally heated deep inside the volcano. This hot water then flows downhill through subterranean fractures and mixes with cool, shallow ground water. As the water travels underground, carbon dioxide is incorporated from surrounding rock. In lowland areas such as Longmire Meadow, where the water seeps to the surface, carbon dioxide gas escapes into the air, like bubbles from a soft drink. Can you see and hear the mineral spring bubbling ? During periods of little rain and snow melt, spring water cannot reach the surface but invisible carbon dioxide gas continues to escape.

Original log cabin from the 19th century

It has been fully restored inside and out.

Nature's best recyclers hard at work

Mudslide area - snow falling

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Last updated: 14-Jan-97