How difficult is the Wonderland Trail?
How difficult 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.
How long does it take to complete the Wonderland Trail?
10 to 14 days
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.
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.
Is the Wonderland Trail a loop?
The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile loop around the base of Mt. Rainier in Washington State. It can be completed in 7-10 days. Each day the average hiker gains and loses 3,000 to 6,000 feet of elevation.
How much does it cost to hike the Wonderland Trail?
The trail circumnavigates (goes in a circle around) Mount Rainier, the highest peak in Washington at 14,411 ft / 4,392 m. It’s a popular trail and requires hikers to apply for a permit ($20 application fee per group of up to 12 people) in advance – more on Wonderland Trail permits, including walk-up permits, below.
How do I get in shape for the Wonderland Trail?
Exercise sometimes wearing a backpack. When preparing for a long backpacking trip like the Wonderland Trail, the core elements of a good training program are progressively longer hikes with a backpack to develop strength and balance and vigorous daily exercise to develop physical endurance.
Where does the Wonderland Trail start?
Longmire is the most popular starting point for the Wonderland Trail and Sunrise/White River is a close second.
How do you cache food in Wonderland Trail?
For hikers on the Wonderland Trail there is the option to cache food at several locations along the 93 mile (150km) route. Food can either be mailed in advance of the hike, or you may drop it off at the cache location once you arrive in the park.
What is the Wonderland Trail in National Park?
The Wonderland Trail is a distinguishing feature of Mount Rainier National Park. Establishment of the trail took place at the turn of the century when the “Wonderland” was an attraction used to promote park visitation. Later, rangers used the trail as a patrol beat.
What is the Wonderland Trail on Mount Rainier?
No two corners of Mount Rainier seem all that alike, and as the hiker passes through each day on the Wonderland Trail, each day will be remembered uniquely as a hike to someplace different. The Wonderland Trail explores the glacial valleys and volcanic ridges fanning outward from Mount Rainier.
Where do you start the Wonderland Trail Adventure?
The Wonderland Trail Adventure (93 miles circumnavigating Mt. Rainier) is a serious trek to be considered only by skilled and trained individuals. The map waypoint shows the Wonderland trail starting at Longmire, with the trail over Rampart Ridge. In fact, there is no best starting point and no best direction.
Do you need a reservation to hike Wonderland Trail?
Smaller trips and day hiking the Wonderland Trail. If you can’t get a reservation it’s still possible to visit many stretches of the Wonderland Trail. You do not need a permit to day hike, and there are access points to the trail all around the park. You can stay in car campgrounds or lodging in or near the park.
