How long does it take to backpack the Wonderland Trail?
Daily elevation gains and losses of over 3,500 feet are common. Allow 10 to 14 days to hike the entire trail, depending on your daily average. The more time you give yourself, the more time you will have to enjoy the wonders of the Wonderland.
How long is the Wonderland Trail Mt. Rainier?
93 miles
The Wonderland Trail is 93 miles (150 km) long and encircles Mount Rainier. It is a strenuous hike with lots of elevation gain and loss, through lowland forests and valleys and into high alpine and sub-alpine areas.
What is the best time to hike the Wonderland Trail?
July
The most popular time for hiking the Wonderland Trail is from mid-July through mid-September. The earlier you go, the more potential there is for snow there is; the later you go, the more potential for cold. July and August are the driest and warmest months in Mount Rainier National Park.
How hard is the Wonderland Trail?
Simply put, the Wonderland Trail should be on every backpacker’s bucket list. The Wonderland circumnavigates majestic Mount Rainier over the course of 93 miles. The route is very challenging, with over 23,000 feet of elevation change, but the rewards are plentiful.
Is the Wonderland Trail worth it?
The Wonderland Trail certainly belongs on any list of America’s best backpacking trips—and I say that having hiked most of the best (some of them multiple times) over the past three decades, including many years running this blog and previously the Northwest Editor of Backpacker magazine for 10 years.
What is the best section of the Wonderland Trail?
The best part of the Wonderland Trail is the suspension bridge over Tahoma Creek. 68. The sweeping view from the 7,018-foot summit of Skyscraper Mountain near Sunrise is a short but steep side trip. 69.
Do you need a bear canister for the Wonderland Trail?
Bear canisters All hikers are required to carry at least one approved bear canister per person.
Should I hike the Wonderland Trail?
Mount Rainier from the Tolmie Peak fire lookout. Reached by a way-trail from the Wonderland Trail near Mowich Lake, this makes a great day hiking destination. Even if you’re day hiking, always be prepared to survive overnight in the cold and wet should something go wrong.
What is the highest point on the Wonderland Trail?
| Wonderland Trail | |
|---|---|
| Elevation gain/loss | 22,000 feet (6,700 m) gain approximately |
| Highest point | Panhandle Gap 6,750 feet (2,060 m) |
| Lowest point | Ipsut Creek Campground 2,320 feet (710 m) |
| Hiking details |
Can you drink water on Mount Rainier?
You also need to treat your water either with water treatment tablets or a water filter system if you drink water off the mountain. If you don’t use a hydration pack, you can also carry water bottles.
Can you carry a gun in Mt Rainier National Park?
Hunting and other uses of firearms is not allowed in Mount Rainier National Park. Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances.
Do I need bear spray Mt Rainier?
Hikers are advised to check with the park they will be visiting to see if the use of bear pepper spray is recommended and permitted. Mount Rainier National Park encourages anyone who spot bears to report it to a ranger or to call park dispatch at 360-569-6600.