Backpacking the Wonderland Trail: A Journey Around Tahoma

The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile loop that encircles Mt. Rainier, offering some of the most stunning and varied landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. With over 22,000 feet of elevation gain, this trail is no joke—but for those who take it on, the reward is an unforgettable trek through old-growth forests, subalpine meadows, glacial valleys, and rugged ridgelines.

Suggested Itinerary: 10 Days, Clockwise Route

This itinerary balances reasonable daily mileage with spectacular campsites to maximize the experience.

Day 1: Longmire to Devil’s Dream (5.2 miles, +3,100 ft gain)

A steep climb out of Longmire, but a short first day allows time to settle in. Devil’s Dream Camp sits near a creek, but mosquitoes can be annoying in mid-summer.

Day 2: Devil’s Dream to South Puyallup River (8.7 miles, +2,300 ft gain, -3,100 ft loss)

Pass Indian Henry’s Hunting Ground, a gorgeous meadow with Rainier views. A long descent to South Puyallup River Camp, which has limited sites but good water access.

Day 3: South Puyallup River to Mowich Lake (11.3 miles, +3,100 ft gain, -2,100 ft loss)

Highlights include Emerald Ridge and the stunning suspension bridge over Tahoma Creek. Camp at Mowich Lake (permit required) or nearby Eagle’s Roost.

Day 4: Mowich Lake to Carbon River (12.5 miles, +2,000 ft gain, -3,700 ft loss)

Cross Spray Park (alternate route option) for extra scenery before dropping into the lush Carbon River Valley. Camp at Carbon River Camp near the roaring glacier-fed river.

Day 5: Carbon River to Mystic Camp (7.5 miles, +3,200 ft gain, -800 ft loss)

A steady climb leads to Mystic Lake, one of the most beautiful high-altitude camps on the trail.

Day 6: Mystic Camp to Sunrise Camp (10.3 miles, +2,400 ft gain, -3,500 ft loss)

Panoramic views of Winthrop Glacier and a descent into White River Valley before climbing to Sunrise Camp, which offers epic sunset views.

Day 7: Sunrise Camp to Summerland (6.5 miles, +2,500 ft gain, -1,600 ft loss)

A shorter day, but the scenery at Summerland is some of the best on the trail.

Day 8: Summerland to Indian Bar (4.5 miles, +1,400 ft gain, -1,100 ft loss)

A relatively easy day with jaw-dropping views in Panhandle Gap, the highest point on the Wonderland Trail.

Day 9: Indian Bar to Maple Creek (9.3 miles, +1,700 ft gain, -4,200 ft loss)

A long descent into the forested Ohanapecosh River Valley. Maple Creek Camp is a great stopping point before the final push.

Day 10: Maple Creek to Longmire (9.7 miles, +2,600 ft gain, -3,300 ft loss)

A final big climb over Rampart Ridge before completing the loop at Longmire. Celebrate with a well-earned meal at the National Park Inn!

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