How difficult is the Wonderland Trail?
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.
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.
How long does it take to hike 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.
Are there bears on the Wonderland Trail?
Hikers are more likely to see bears on the trail. There are on average of 417 back bear encounters per year in Washington, more than any other potentially dangerous animal.
What can I bring on Wonderland Trail?
Wonderland Trail Backpackers Checklist
- Backpack.
- Sleeping bag.
- Tent.
- Sleep pad.
- 2 moisture-wicking shirts (either 2 short sleeve, or 1 short sleeve/1 long sleeve)
- 1 pair of long pants (comfortable enough for hiking, sleeping and underneath rain pants)
- 1 pair of hiking shorts.
- Waterproof Jacket.
How do you resupply on 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.
Can you do part of the 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.
Do you need a bear canister for Wonderland Trail?
Bear canisters All hikers are required to carry at least one approved bear canister per person.
When should I hike the Wonderland Trail?
When to hike the Wonderland Trail. In a typical year, the Wonderland Trail is accessible from late July to the end of September. These months are when most people hike the entire trail.
Does Wonderland Trail require bear spray?
Hikers are more likely to see bears on the trail. There are on average of 417 back bear encounters per year in Washington, more than any other potentially dangerous animal. Bear spray can also scare away these animals. If you carry it, make sure it’s within reach.
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.
The Wonderland Trail is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. It’s one of the most iconic trails in the region, and with very good reason. 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.
Is the Wonderland Trail on your bucket list?
The Wonderland Trail is a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. It’s one of the most iconic trails in the region, and with very good reason. Simply put, the Wonderland Trail should be on every backpacker’s bucket list.
How long does it take to hike the Wonderland?
Most people hike the Wonderland in around 10 days, so planning one or two food drops to reduce pack weight is very common. There are four locations where you can cache food along the Wonderland, but two of them (Sunrise & White River) are right next to each other.
What is it like to camp at the Wonderland?
The campsites are well maintained and almost all of them are close to a water source. Campsites along the Wonderland are almost always full, so expect to be camping with neighbors nearby. Also, the campsites are often in sheltered locations, so don’t expect sweeping views from your tent either.