Russell Glacier (Mount Rainier)

The Russell Glacier is a medium-sized glacier on the north flank of Mount Rainier, Washington. Named for the geologist Israel Russell, it covers 1.3 sqmi and contains 3.1 billion ft3 (88 million m3) of ice. Starting from its highest point at 9400 ft, the Russell Glacier flows northeast towards the Carbon Glacier and contributes ice to the larger glacier before becoming distinct below 7000 ft. With most of the ice located from 8000 ft to 9000 ft, the glacier only descends to 6800 ft, unlike the much lower extent of the Carbon Glacier. Echo Rock and 8364 ft Observation Rock, two minor sub-peaks of Rainier, lie northwest of this glacier. Meltwater from the glacier eventually reaches the Carbon River.