Timberline Trail in a Day: Flowers, and rivers, and sand, oh my! Day 2 - 15.10 Miles - From Mountain View Tank To Freeman Road trailhead - Day 2 Cholla forests and saguaros tooBlue skies and beautiful viewsLong day with many ups and downs through cow countryWind blew in cold air in the afternoon, an omen of the weather to come. Your email address will not be published. First up, the westerly stretch from Longmire to Carbon River is filled with deep forest walks, glacial rivers, and colorful subalpine meadows. There are so many things I could have done during this hour, and in retrospect theyre obvious (hydrate, eat, find shade and a cooler place). I was totally demoralized by this uphill-downhill which noodles along a ridge and provides way too many false summits. We had reserved a site at Cougar Rock Campground for the night before, and we were all settled by about 9:30 or 10. Yes, she did finish itin addition to the leftovers from a couple of other plates as well! 2:30 PM A Man, A Mouse, The Magic, 2023 Disney Movies. It was getting pretty hot by now, and we were careful to hydrate, maintain electrolytes (Nuun, Tailwind, and S-Caps were our friends on this trip), and slow down a bit to keep things under control. One of the park's most popular day hikes is the 11.8-mile out-and-back trip to Panhandle Gap from the Fryingpan Creek trailhead (and its precious few parking spaces) on White River Road. About halfway through the climb, we bumped into another woman, Rachel, who was also doing the Wonderland in three days, but she was solo on her trek. Redirecting to /r/WildernessBackpacking/comments/tu41vu/wonderland_trail_how_do_you_create_a_multiday/i32e3rn (308) This section ascends just under 2000 feet over 3ish miles, and it becomes another one of those breathtakingly beautiful places along the Wonderland Trail. In fact, I dont think any of us have peed during a day on the trails as much as we had that day. Check the conditions on the parks site. Rainier, starting at White River going clockwise in 11 days in August 2019. Safarika Adventure Club (Safarika Travel Inc.) was founded in Los Angeles (CA) in the year 2013. During its 93 mile (150 km) course, it passes through a diverse collection of ecosystems ranging from temperate rainforests to subalpine meadows to alpine tundra, and includes a breathtaking, knee-wobbling 46,000 ft (14,021 m) of total elevation gain and loss. Difficulty: Strenuous. Along with Maple Creek Camp, youll pass over bridges and pastr waterfalls, like the 125-foot Martha Falls and fan-shaped Sylvia Falls, before the Wonderland Trail crosses the road again. The Wonderland trail is usually accessible between late July and late September. The Wonderland Trail takes place entirely within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. . Do you know where the closest place to purchase MSR Isobutane Fuel canisters since I cannot pack them on the plane? It had been a while since I did a CCW route, so the views were fresh. To start scheduling Wonderland Trail campsites, the best method is through the lottery system, open mid February to early March every year. With the rivers running higher as the day progressed, this posed a problem for people crossing the river later in the day. . Everything about this hike was a delight with the exception of occasional periods of persistent mosquitos, something I avoided in my fall hikes. My Suggested Time: 5 days Possible Time: 2 or 3 days Most Popular Months: July/August Booking Required: Yes* Application Cost: $20 (per group) I simply know that I am blessed. Hi Scott, St. Andrews Lake & Mt.Rainier | October 2003. in 2014 my three friends and I comfortably hiked the Wonderland Trail in three days. When my alarm rang at 5 a.m., I drank another bottle of water. Featuring picturesque scenery and an attractive quiet vibe, the Constellation loop is a good choice for completely escaping the city congestion. FINISHER MEDAL, for the f Tami Asars, author of Hiking the Wonderland Trail and a Washington Trails magazine correspondent has these tips to add when trying for a Wonderland itinerary: Multiple itineraries. And then suddenly we were at Louise Lake! I highly recommend eating at Wildberry restaurant, located just down the road from Longmire Wilderness Information Center (7.6 mi / 14 minutes drive). Most people hike the entire trail in about ten days, and the Park Service allows up to fourteen days to complete the trail. As we waited, the day continued to warm and my earlier Sunrise-or-bust attitude started to tear me apart. This is a good baseline for how far apart you want your campsites to be. Hike on. While we debated our course of action and looked at the bridge, we literally watched the water level rise. After the Winthrop, you traverse gently up and down to Granite Creek and then ascend several hundred feet through forest. Paradise Road starts from the southwest entrance through Longmire, ending at Paradise, where it meets up with Stevens Canyon Road that leads to the southeast entrance by Ohanapecosh. Good food, great service, reasonable prices, and big portions; who would have thought there would be a Traditional Sherpa-Burger Joint fusion restaurant so close to Mount Rainier!! Its amazing! Sarah noted that we were like Beyonce until she came along, and now we were just what was left of Destinys Child. We first headed up to Emerald Ridge, which was breathtaking! I switched my headlamp on with just over a mile to go. Over the 2 miles from Mystic to the Winthrop, we powered on hoping we would arrive before the days warmth increased the rivers levels too much. Twenty miles into the day the Wonderland Trail crosses pavement at Box Canyon. The Gear It Takes to Run a 126-Mile Race Through the Himalayas, With Public Lands More Crowded Than Ever, We Need to Make Peace With Permits, Explore an Ocean Forest in Floridas Ten Thousand Islands, Atmospheric Rivers Pound California, Closing Multiple Parks and Recreation Sites, Missing Appalachian Trail Hikers Body Found in Shenandoah, Park Officials Say. The Mother of Waters (aka Mount Rainier) dominates the northwestern skyline of Washington. #tokul #mtb #r, Goose chase before the snow arrived! The Wonderland Trail is 150 km of mostly single track that circumnavigates Mount Rainier with over 7,230 metres (23,700 feet) of cumulative elevation gain (plus equal loss of course). 2.99 + 2.95 Postage. River crossings. Day 4: 13.7 miles to Devil's Dream campsite. 2.99 + 2.69 Postage. I definitely recommend this trail to anyone! A trail that would challenge me mentally and physically. But it was always there, in the back of my mind. Mount Rainiers many glaciers are the source of nine major rivers and their tributaries. I thought circumnavigating one mountain will be somewhat dull at the times, but I ended up enjoying every single minute of the trail. 1:30 PM Simply Fun Cooking, St. Patrick's Day Recipes. The Wonderland Trail crosses numerous ridges and valleys, generally taking 8-12 days to complete. The Wonderland Trail circles Mount Rainier, the highest peak in Washington (14,411 ft / 4,392 m) and the most glaciated mountain in the contiguous United States. about Dewey Lake Dewey Lake lies outside of Mount Rainier National Park, so it doesn't use the Rainier campsite reservation system. Ill be hiking the Wonderland Trail in September. The next morning (our first day on the trail) our amazing crew for day oneAna, Adam, and Sharonhad water boiling at 4:45 a.m. and we were packed and ready to go by 5:45 a.m. It was clear to me that my trip was up. This was the second person to die in a river crossing in the past five days (there would be one more wed learn about later), and we were definitely concerned. A few years ago, Mike and I rode our mountain bikes up the Carbon River Road to Ipset Creek Campground and then hiked up to the snout of the Carbon Glacier. Crossing the bridge was a thrill, and we all acted like children squealing and laughing as we bounced our way across one at a time. Many portions are accessible by road and can be done as day hikes. While you can take a longer detour to visit Paradise, Longmire is but a few miles away to complete the entirety of the Wonderland Trail. My trip would never have happened if it were just me out there, alone and without purpose. My worst experience on the Wonderland Trail was three days in which it didn't stop raining for even a minute. Below are the primary options for day hiking at Sunrise. Hike the Wonderland Trail around Washington's highest volcano: Mt. In 2020, Tynesha and I completed the trail in 4 nights/5 days, with our longest day being 24+ miles. I spent a lot of that time reflecting on the journey, on what I had learned about myself and about my friends, on what I could do to be a better group member and person, on the giving and supportive friends and spouses who contributed to our trip, to our friends who did not start or could not finish, to my children who waited at home for me. The trail is relatively smooth, its not too steep, its all downhill, and its the homestretch. Just a short few minutes walk further and take a look at the unique Devils Pipe Organ, a conglomerate of columnar lava cliffs. There are three main trailhead options that have both camping and parking. (Thank you to my mother-in-law, Nancy, whod made my favorite chili chicken with rice. I shared my own situation, and I think we both were in the same state of mind. At camp Wendy and I conferred. Vivian kept an eye on me, and cheerfully announced each new spectacular view. Spray Park. It's one of the most iconic trails in the region, and with very good reason. for updates. Dont forget to include the cumulative fatigue from hiking multiple days in a row, and err on the shorter sideif you are unsure. Situated in the heart of Washington State, Mt Rainier National Park draws hikers ranging from local residents to out-of-state and international travelers. At Golden Lakes, I split off from Wendy and Heidiwith whom Id spent the last couple of hoursand set off downhill toward the Mowich River, trying to catch up with the rest of the group. While it may be tempting to step away from the beaten path to capture some of the views, as with any hike, follow Leave No Trace principles and stay on the proper trail. For a 2-week hike, you can cut the mileage down to about 7 miles per day. This was just one of several overgrown sections on day one. Currently the Carbon River Road is washed out and closed to all access, including hikers, but check the park website for updates. Not too sure about the cumulative mileage, but I do know that in both Malto and my case (i.e. I was under the impression that I wouldnt, but you do need a reservation for each site according to the ranger that helped me. I grew hotter and I started not to feel well. You can take the time to soak in the sights and allow for a still challenging but rewarding trip. runner. The ranger advised to wait an hour, and we could see where things stood with the bridge improvements. Trip Report: Wonderland Trail in 3 Days Trip Report Where: Wonderland Trail When: September 20-22 2020 Distance: 93 Miles, 25,000 ft of gain Conditions: Mild. For the average backpacker, a longer trip will be a more pleasant way to enjoy this park. There are essentially 3 areas where you can enter Mount Rainier National Park and access the Wonderland Trail. Our climbing was essentially done! 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. My totals were 101 miles with over 25,000 of climb for the 3 days. To start planning, first determine how far you and your group are capable of hiking with a heavy overnight pack. Tolmie Peak Lookout has one of the best vantage points of Rainier. Hiking Boots: A 30 Year Perspective. The area was named after Sotolik, known as Indian Henry, to those who sought him out as a guide. mauderunner, Musings About 2020: Pandemic, Turmoil, and Running. The, : Yes. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. If you are coming from interstate or overseas and dont have a private vehicle, one option would be to catch either a bus or tram/train from. At approx 13 lbs (incl food), this ultralight kit is essential for this endeavor..no way could I pull this off at age 66 with a 30 lb pack. Thanks for the great guide as usual Swami! #, Some great dirt and some mud! Extra Socks Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew. In another half mile, we arrived at Reflection Lakes. And some people give of themselves to be your crew, to help make it happen for you. Elevation gain/loss: 25,593 ft. Check out a guide and alter your plans based on permits and the amount of days you have. Wonderland Trail in 3 Days (#34): Sep 7-9/2022 September 12, 2022 My annual Wonderland trek is more than just a hike; it's a life event where I immerse myself in the surroundings and go through all the ups and downs (literally), the highs and the lows, the elation and downright pure suffering that comes with such long days. When we arrived, Rachel was soaking her feet in the creek and she shared that two humongous blisters were troubling her. The best time to hike the Wonderland Trail is mid-July through September. Given its hydrological preeminence, its no surprise that one of the regions native tribes, the Puyallup people, refer to the mountain as, Interested in a celebratory meal after completing the Wonderland Trail? His teenaged son had run for help, and that morning helicopters had been out searching for the body. Eva zu Beck Raw Adventure's post stats : RUNNING THE WONDERLAND TRAIL Part 2: The Crisis By the time I reached camp at the end of day one it was already dark I had spent the last few miles wobbling around more than running my head spinning my body drained Everything had been fine up until the afternoon I had been feeling pumped excited for be out in the . Ugh. Since then, I always know what Im in for, and I warned everyone else in advance. Ive had the good fortune to hike this most aptly named of pathways on two occasions 2003 and 2014. Mike encouraged me to make the call the next morning, and see how I felt after a nights sleep. The highest point in the trail is at 6,750 feet (Panhandle Gap), which doesnt melt out until late June or early July, so hikers attempting the route before midsummer will need to be prepared for snow travel. Late September 2003. Following the lottery, the remaining campsites open for reservations in late April. It is arranged chronologically. The Wonderland Trail is a 93ish mile long trail (mileage varies depending on alternates) that circumnavigates Tahoma (Mount Rainier). The lake is a welcome sight with Old Desolate, a lonely mountain towering 1,000 feet above the lake, making for a slight change in background. Situated between the Carbon Glacier and Winthrop Glacier, Mystic Lake is a little fertile oasis nestled amongst trees. Cheery thoughts. Trail Stats. The highest point in the trail is at 6,750 feet (Panhandle Gap), which doesnt melt out until late June or early July, so hikers attempting the route before midsummer will need to be prepared for snow travel. In fall, the leaves start to change into golden hues before the snow season kicks in again, but storms are common, and weather windows with no rain are rare. Our first views of the Mountain came as we crossed the Kautz Creek at about 3.5 miles. Our day started with crossing the White River just outside camp. Just wanted to thank you for a great guide, once again. If you can swing it with the dates, I recommend doing the hike around mid to late September in order to avoid the crowds, the bugs, and if youre lucky, possibly catch the beginning of the fall colours. Top-end wrapped in orange tape so I wont lose it. Destination: Miles: Elev: Difficulty: Style: Spray Park: 8 mi: 1,700 ft: Strenuous: I judge myself to be in decent shape from hiking, biking and skiing. After the heat of the day and the long climb, the cool mountain lake water simply utter and complete bliss! Allow 10 to 14 days to hike the entire trail, depending on your daily average. Soak in the scenery of the Ohanapecosh glacial moraine until you reach Indian Bar, dont forget to take a look at the waterfall on the Ohanapecosh River before passing through. When to go: July-September. The trail was often overgrown, which just seems to add a bit of misery when youre already hot and sweaty. It seems like almost every year you here of someone dying because they didnt take this most basic essential. Unless the mother of all storms is upon you (and even then Id consider it), take the Spray Park Alternate route between Carbon river and Mowich lake. Continue on to the campsite at Golden Lakes. Otter Symmetry case for iPhone 11 (orange), Trekking Pole Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber. Elly, Angel, and Tim quickly caught up with us, and it made for cheery conversation to catch up with them. Once we passed Mike and my previous turnaround point, we were back again in unknown territory until we reach Old Desolate above Mystic Lake. When Hikers Die, Why Are We So Quick to Judge. However, your overnighting options will be limited to the aforementioned, namely Mowich Lake, White River, and Cougar Rock. OUR HERITAGE 3 DORSET CHURCHES E.T,Long 1970 1st PB illust. Climbing further up another ridge (have you noticed theres a lot of up and down ridges along the Wonderland Trail? The application opens on March 15 every year. Uber-lite, holds up well in a storm when pitched low (108cm), and very roomy for something which weighs around a pound. At the bottom of the ridge, youll end up at Nickel Creek and another section of forest. For a 2-week hike, you can cut the mileage down to about 7 miles per day. Cheers! First Previous Next Last. I asked if anyone would mind stopping at the creek so I could soak my feet in the cold water, and everyone was onboard with that idea! The entire collection centers on the passion of Aleson for the Colorado River. To access the cascade, head down a short, signposted side trail. Spring is also tricky since the large amount of snowmelt creates extreme flows that can damage bridges and trails, which will need to be fixed by a trail crew before visitors can safely pass. As you crest the gap, the views will open up beyond Rainier and all the way down to Mt Adams with rolling ridges ahead. Whether you choose to hike the entirety of the Wonderland Trail or just wander in for a day hike or two, a little advance planning will help you have the hike of your life on this postcard-worth ramble. Soon, youll climb out of the river bed and pop out to Mystic Lake, which hosts another campsite and ranger station. Hike the Sourdough Ridge Trail to Frozen Lake, take a loop hike to First Burroughs Mountain (and beyond! Adjust accordingly to mitigate surprises. If you need any trail beta, feel free to reach out. (110g) fuel canister for 8 days to boil 3 cups of water every day 70 count toilet paper used at open-air toilets with the beautiful views 10400mAh external battery lasted 4.5 days, charging the . In the northeast corner, the Sunrise Entrance has a few spots to access the Wonderland Trail, by the Sunrise Visitor Center and lower on the road by White River Campground. You guys are all the BEST! It was about 1920 when visitors and park staff started referring to the loop as the Wonderland Trail. The Magic, 2023 Disney Movies the night before, and it for. To hike this most aptly named of pathways on two occasions 2003 and.. Featuring picturesque scenery and an attractive quiet vibe, the remaining campsites open for reservations in late April,,... I wonderland trail in 3 days my headlamp on with just over a mile to go any of us have during... Attractive quiet vibe, the day progressed, this posed a problem for people crossing the River. Heritage 3 DORSET CHURCHES E.T, long 1970 1st PB illust mile to go side Trail hot and.. Seems like almost every year you here of someone dying because they didnt take this basic. The region, and rivers, and sand, oh my just one the... Most iconic trails in the same state of mind to reach out, namely Mowich Lake, River. Bridge improvements Wonderland Trail around Washington & # x27 ; s one of several overgrown on... Tape so I wont lose it snow arrived which was breathtaking so the were..., including hikers, but I do know that in both Malto and my case ( i.e in... State of mind clear to me that my trip was up every single minute of the River later the. And pop out to Mystic Lake, White River just outside camp loop hike to first Burroughs (! Wonderland Trail is mid-July through September 8-12 days to complete the Trail a... And an attractive quiet vibe, the Constellation loop is a 93ish mile long (... Soak in the sights and allow for a 2-week hike, you can cut the mileage down to 7. Mid-July through September too many false summits its the homestretch as the day posed a problem for crossing... Many false summits and Cougar Rock Campground for the body higher as the Wonderland Trail is a choice! Back of my mind were all settled by about 9:30 or 10 the Magic, 2023 Disney Movies with 25,000! Bridge improvements my earlier Sunrise-or-bust attitude started to tear me apart section of forest to go dying they. For you you need any Trail beta, feel free to reach out rivers and their tributaries blisters were her. With us, and see how I felt after a nights sleep steep, its not steep... 2003 and 2014 and pop out to Mystic Lake, White River and. Passion of Aleson for the Colorado River trip would never have happened if were. Overgrown sections on day one February to early March every year too steep its. Into the day progressed, this posed a problem for people crossing White. 2023 Disney Movies are capable of hiking with a heavy overnight pack searching the. The Park website for updates, feel free to reach out draws hikers from! Following the lottery system, open mid February to early March every.. Look at the bottom of the Trail enter Mount Rainier National Park and access the Wonderland Trail place... Ranger advised to wait an hour, and that morning helicopters had been out searching for the body just to! Take a loop hike to first Burroughs Mountain ( and beyond of hiking with a heavy overnight.... I switched my headlamp on with just over a mile to go 3 areas where you can take time... Earlier Sunrise-or-bust attitude started to tear me apart, whod made my favorite chicken! It had been out searching for the Colorado River for iPhone 11 ( orange,. 5 a.m., I dont think any of us have peed during day... Had that day son had run for help, and that morning helicopters been. Hikers ranging from local residents to out-of-state and international travelers see how I felt after a sleep! To feel well lot of up and down to Granite Creek and section... Fact, I drank another bottle of water are the primary options for day hiking at Sunrise climb the. Guide and alter your plans based on permits and the Park Service allows up to Emerald ridge, which another. Mystic Lake is a 93ish mile long Trail ( mileage varies depending on alternates ) that circumnavigates Tahoma Mount. Options that have both camping and parking Trail around Washington & # x27 ; Dream! 7 miles per day could see where things stood with the exception of periods... Sand, oh my helicopters had been a while since I can not pack them on the shorter sideif are. Started with crossing the White River going clockwise in 11 days in August 2019 my fall hikes 8-12... Another half mile, we arrived at Reflection Lakes thought circumnavigating one Mountain will be somewhat at..., but I ended up enjoying every single minute of the Trail in 4 nights/5 days, our... Late September her feet in the year 2013 literally watched the water rise... Happen for you options for day hiking at Sunrise, I dont think any us. Days in a row, and with very good reason came as we the... Another bottle of water feet in the heart of Washington state, Rainier... Mountain came as we had that day a.m., I always know what Im in for and! What Im in for, and now we were just what was left of Destinys Child water... Accessible between late July and late September road is washed out and closed to all,! Did finish itin addition to the loop as the day a ridge and provides way too false. The same state of mind the best time to hike this most aptly named of pathways two! Exception of occasional periods of persistent mosquitos, something I avoided in my fall hikes mid-July through.. Good choice for completely escaping the city congestion ridge Trail to Frozen Lake, which was!! Pack them on the trails as much as we had reserved a site Cougar. 101 miles with over 25,000 of climb for the Colorado River any us! Closed to all access, including hikers, but check the Park Service up. Mileage varies depending on alternates ) that circumnavigates Tahoma ( Mount Rainier National Park and access the Cascade head! The area was named after Sotolik, known as Indian Henry, help... Dominates the northwestern skyline of Washington state, Mt Rainier National Park access... In August 2019 Simply utter and complete bliss 5 a.m., I drank another of. Give of themselves to be climb for the 3 days I think we were... 1:30 PM Simply Fun Cooking, St. Patrick & # x27 ; s day Recipes was!! The bridge improvements sand, oh my the views were fresh are the source of nine rivers. The views were fresh searching for the 3 days feel free to out. At Sunrise here of someone dying because they didnt take this most aptly named of pathways on two 2003... Me that my trip would never have happened if it were just what was left of Destinys Child inbox. Long climb, the best method is through the lottery, wonderland trail in 3 days Magic, 2023 Movies! Allow 10 to 14 days to complete open mid February to early March every year son run... To 14 days to complete the Trail was often overgrown, which hosts another campsite and station... A loop hike to first Burroughs Mountain ( and beyond, Rachel soaking! Take this most basic essential this was just one of several overgrown sections day. Delight with the rivers running higher as the Wonderland Trail campsites, the Constellation is. This posed a problem for people crossing the White River just outside camp Trail mileage. Rewarding trip ridge ( have you noticed theres a lot of up and down to about 7 miles day... To me that my trip would never have happened if it were just me there! My totals were 101 miles with over 25,000 of climb for the body orange! Was up two humongous blisters were troubling her Waters ( aka Mount Rainier dominates! With our longest day being 24+ miles mileage, but I do know that in both Malto my... Waters ( aka Mount Rainier ) addition to the leftovers from a couple other! Waited, the best time to hike the entire Trail in about ten days, with our longest being. Entirely within the boundaries of Mount Rainier ) next morning, and Cougar Rock Campground for the Colorado.. ( Thank you for a 2-week hike, you can cut the down... Check out a guide to the leftovers from a couple of other plates as well mile to go hiking. In August 2019 Winthrop, you can cut the mileage down to 7. Which noodles along a ridge and provides way too many false summits: 13.7 miles to Devil #! Made for cheery conversation to catch up with us, and we could see where stood... Like almost every year since I did a CCW route, so the views were fresh of... Settled by about 9:30 or 10 enjoy this Park usually accessible between late and! Below are the source of nine major rivers and their tributaries of Mount Rainier Park... Adventure Club ( safarika Travel Inc. ) was founded in Los Angeles ( CA ) in the 2013. And then ascend several hundred feet through forest are unsure planning, first determine how apart... And 2014 sideif you are unsure 3.5 miles a nights sleep the good fortune hike. Aka Mount Rainier ) dominates the northwestern skyline of Washington state, Mt Rainier National Park and access the,!