Meltwater at high camp?

[Autoxfil]

We are planning our stove strategy for Rainier, probably Emmons. I've seen trip reports mention getting meltwater for drinking - is that something I can count on in the last week of July, or do I need to be prepared to melt snow for all our water once we get to high camp? We are planning on spending at least 3 days on the mountain, so meltwater would be a huge deal - if reliable.

[DPS]

I would not rely on melt water. I have done Emmons a few times and I don't remember any significant source of melt water when I was there. I always plan on enough fuel to melt all the water we will need.

[summitchaserCJB]

I agree. While it could happen I wouldn't rely on it. I mean what is another couple pounds of fuel anyways?

[Autoxfil]

Thanks for the feedback, guys. Whisperlite and ample fuel it shall be!

[keenwesh]

at Schuman there'll be some drips of water in the afternoon, but that'll all disappear at night and in early morning, bring some extra fuel, but it's totally feasible to not have to melt snow for drinking water.

[ScaredSilly]

bring clear plastic bags, shovel dense snow into them, place in the sun, let melt while you work on your tan ...

 

[Stime]

In late July or so, there's some great meltwater streams at Schurman just as you come into camp/head up to the Flats.

 

But, as has already been said, don't count on it.

Edited February 18, 2010 by Stime

[jlawrence10]

Last year, around July 25th, there was lots of meltwater every day, coming from the rock area right as you enter camp, around where the glaciers split. We carried fuel just in case (which you'll probably have to) but didn't need it. In fact people were offering us fuel as we pulled in that they hadn't used. The water was running strong every afternoon, but again, if it's colder or cloudier it may not be there.

So, carry plenty of fuel, and then carry it down.