April 3-4, 2004, Van Trump Glacier

Took the Nisqually bridge approach near Tato falls as shown in Burgdorfer's book and I wouldn't recommend it. Instead travel further up the Nisqually valley and find your approach, or take the Christine Falls trail (which I've been told has difficulties too). Camped out at about 6200'. Clear skies day and night with a near full moon and great views, warm temperatures and almost no wind. It did freeze overnight and both days the snow softened early (before 11 am). Our high point was about 8200' on the lower SE Van Trump Glacier near the Wilson. Nice smooth corn slopes everywhere, but lower elevation (<6200') and later in the day was pretty mushy. Exited via the Nisqually valley following JW, Mad Dog, Ron J, SAG et al. after they "groomed" it. It was nice to catch up to, and meet, this kind crew on exit.