Wonderland Trail
A legendary 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, offering challenging terrain and breathtaking, soul-filling vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak wildflowers & wildlife
Wonderland Trail
Best Time
Peak wildflowers & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, offering challenging terrain and breathtaking, soul-filling vistas.
"Simultaneously the most amazing and terrible experience of my life."
🎯 Apply for Permits Early
Secure your Wonderland Trail permit via lottery on recreation.gov months in advance. Walk-ups are an option but stressful!
🎒 Pack Light, Pack Smart
Aim for a low base weight (around 10-11 lbs) for your 93-mile trek. Gear choices depend on season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Sunrise Road
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and surrounding peaks. Truly a dreamscape.
Magical Autumn Hues
Paradise Parking Lot area
Fairytale-like trails transform into a wonderland of fall colors, offering accessible beauty for all.
The Iconic Suspension Bridge
Tahoma Creek
A thrilling crossing over the Tahoma Creek, offering unique perspectives and a sense of adventure.
Wildflower and Wildlife Season
Various meadows
Witness vibrant wildflowers and potential wildlife sightings during peak season for an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits & Planning are Key
Gear Up for All Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Apply for Permits Early
Secure your Wonderland Trail permit via lottery on recreation.gov months in advance. Walk-ups are an option but stressful!
🎒 Pack Light, Pack Smart
Aim for a low base weight (around 10-11 lbs) for your 93-mile trek. Gear choices depend on season. 
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the long lines by arriving before 9 AM on weekdays and 7:30 AM on weekends, especially at popular trailheads.
❄️ Prepare for Winter Conditions
Even in fall, be ready for snow. Check weather and webcams before heading out; conditions change rapidly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Apply for Permits Early
Secure your Wonderland Trail permit via lottery on recreation.gov months in advance. Walk-ups are an option but stressful!
🎒 Pack Light, Pack Smart
Aim for a low base weight (around 10-11 lbs) for your 93-mile trek. Gear choices depend on season.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the long lines by arriving before 9 AM on weekdays and 7:30 AM on weekends, especially at popular trailheads.
❄️ Prepare for Winter Conditions
Even in fall, be ready for snow. Check weather and webcams before heading out; conditions change rapidly.
📸 Capture the Magic
From epic sunsets to serene forests, bring your camera to document the breathtaking scenery.
🚶♀️ Embrace the Challenge
The Wonderland Trail is tough but rewarding. Enjoy the journey, even the challenging ascents and descents.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe the Wonderland Trail as a simultaneously breathtaking and grueling experience, offering unparalleled natural beauty that makes the immense challenge worthwhile. While the views are consistently praised, the trail's difficulty and the competitive permit process are noted drawbacks.
"Simultaneously the most amazing and terrible experience of my life."
Steve O'Connor
"very pretty and peaceful hike, good incline and killer view if you take the loop up and around the lake."
Brian
"Mt Rainier is truly beautiful ... other that the lack of the great lodges, probably equivalent to GNP.
Wonderland trail is 92 miles so my 4 miles on wonderland is essentially just a stumble. Get there early... before 9 am weekday 730 am weekends ... its a L. O. N. G line getting in.
Was a wonderful 4 days."
Paul Weber
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wonderland Trail encircles Mount Rainier. Access points are typically via Mount Rainier National Park. Driving is the most common method, but be prepared for potential entrance lines, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early to secure parking.
Limited public transportation options exist. The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad offers a vintage train tour from Elbe, which can be a scenic way to experience the area, though not directly to trailheads.
Popular starting points include Paradise, Longmire, and Sunrise. The choice often depends on your planned itinerary and permit availability. +1
Yes, many visitors hike shorter sections of the Wonderland Trail. Popular day hikes can be accessed from trailheads like Paradise or Sunrise.
The original name given by the native Puyallup Tribe is Tahoma, meaning 'the mother of waters' or 'snowy peak'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required for overnight backpacking on the Wonderland Trail. The application process is competitive, with an early access lottery and walk-up options.
Permits are primarily obtained through a lottery system on recreation.gov. Walk-up permits are also available but are not guaranteed.
The early access lottery is the primary application window. Check recreation.gov for specific dates, but generally, apply well in advance of your desired hiking season.
Yes, Mount Rainier National Park has an entrance fee. This fee typically covers a 7-day pass for your vehicle.
During peak season, Mount Rainier National Park may require timed entry reservations. It's crucial to check the official park website for current requirements before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Wonderland Trail is known for its significant elevation changes, with over 23,000 feet of elevation gain and an equal amount of loss throughout the 93-mile loop.
Expect steep, challenging terrain with significant ascents and descents. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows.
Yes, designated campsites are available along the Wonderland Trail. These require reservations as part of your backpacking permit.
You might encounter various wildlife, including deer, marmots, and potentially bears. Always practice bear safety and maintain a safe distance.
Due to its length, elevation gain, and challenging terrain, the Wonderland Trail is generally considered best for experienced backpackers. Shorter sections can be suitable for less experienced hikers.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise Point offers incredible 360-degree views. Many sections along the trail provide stunning vistas of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and valleys. Sunset Point is also a prime location. +1
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers opportunities for capturing the grandeur of the mountains.
Lightweight camera gear is preferred for backpacking. Some hikers carry mirrorless cameras or even just their smartphones to keep weight down.
Weather can be a challenge, with fog or clouds obscuring views. Rapidly changing light conditions and the need to balance exposure for bright skies and shaded forests can also be tricky.
Late summer and early fall are particularly beautiful, with wildflowers in bloom and vibrant autumn colors. Winter brings snow-covered landscapes, offering a different kind of photographic beauty. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a scenic drive along Sunrise Road, stopping at viewpoints like Sunrise Point for breathtaking panoramas that will captivate younger imaginations. The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad also offers a charming, family-friendly way to enjoy the surrounding landscapes without the rigors of hiking.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider carpooling with friends or utilizing any available shuttle services within the park. Packing your own food and cooking supplies is significantly cheaper than relying on external food sources. For those not thru-hiking, day trips to accessible areas like Paradise offer incredible scenery without the need for extensive gear or permits.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the grand vistas, look for opportunities to capture the intricate details of wildflowers, the textures of old-growth forests, and the power of glacial rivers. Consider bringing a lightweight camera setup to balance gear weight with photographic aspirations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Wonderland Trail: A Thru-Hiker's Dream
+1Securing permits for a thru-hike is notoriously difficult. The early access lottery on recreation.gov is the primary method, with a limited number of walk-up permits available for the more adventurous or flexible. Planning is paramount, involving detailed itinerary creation, campsite reservations, and careful consideration of gear. Many hikers opt for a lightweight backpacking setup to manage the strenuous ascents and descents.
+2While the trail is demanding, the rewards are immense. Hikers consistently describe the experience as both "amazing and terrible" – a testament to its difficulty and unparalleled beauty. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer magnificence of the landscapes make it a bucket-list adventure for many.
Best Times to Experience the Wonderland Trail
Autumn brings a different kind of magic to the trail. As summer fades, the landscapes transform into a breathtaking display of fall colors, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows painting the mountainsides. This can be a less crowded time to visit, offering a more serene experience, though hikers should be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of early snow.
It's crucial to remember that weather conditions can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Even in summer, snow can linger on passes, and unexpected storms can occur. Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before and during your hike.
Navigating the Wonderland Trail: Tips from the Community
Gear selection is another critical aspect. Given the trail's demands, prioritizing lightweight yet durable equipment is key. Instagram Reels often showcase minimalist backpacking setups, highlighting the importance of a low base weight. Consider the season you're hiking in, as this will dictate the type of clothing and shelter you'll need.
+1Finally, respecting the environment and practicing Leave No Trace principles are paramount. The Wonderland Trail is a fragile ecosystem. Be mindful of wildlife, pack out everything you pack in, and stay on designated trails to minimize your impact. The community's shared experiences underscore the profound connection one can forge with nature on this iconic trail.
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