Wonderland Trail

[Trek-chick]

DH and I are going to hike the Wonderland Trail (Mt. Rainier) this summer. We plan to go the first week in August and take 10-11 days to complete the 93 mile hike.

I was just curious if anyone here has done the hike and care to share your experience...

I have done other backcountry hikes in Yellowstone so, this will not be new to me.

It is my first time ever going to the Pacific Northwest part of US and I am sooooooo excited. We hope to spend a day or so in Seattle...anything you recommend we see or do there?

I actually just bought a patagonia rain jacket this morning, and need good waterproof pants before we go...just in case. I hear it is rainy there but, what is the general weather like? Does it really rain that much in August? I'm sure being on Rainier it will be hit or miss, but I would appreciate any insight from anyone that has done this hike.

Thanks

[ivorygorgon]

Trek Chick:

I grew up in Washington State and lived there until I was bout 35. DH and I did a portion of the Wonderland Trail several years ago, were going to go all the way around, but I hurt my knee and couldn't continue.

This is an amazing hike. You are going to have a blast. It is outstandingly beautiful.

Mid August will most likely be gorgeous. I don't really think you will run into too much rain that time of year. (but you should be prepared). It is probably pretty close to the driest time of the year there.

Have fun!

[Tri Girl]

Nothing to add, but just wanted to say WOW!!! Your planned hike sounds AMAZING!!! Now I want to look up the Wonderland Trail to see what it's all about. WOW! Please please please share everything when you return. Sounds SO exciting!!

[Trek-chick]

Thanks ivory....

I am not too worried about the rain and will expect to get wet at some point. I am sooooooooo excited about this trip. I did have to put off doing RAGBRAI this year but, I think we will remember this trip forever.

I will definitely post a trip report with photos too

[roadie gal]

A number of years ago I did a section around Summerland. It's beautiful, but it has some of the most aggressive squirrels and chipmunks I've ever seen. They chewed a hole in my friend's backpack trying to get to a granola bar she had. Make sure you keep your pack and any food in a bear box or your tent if you're not wearing it. Hanging it doesn't work. They can run across any rope you string up.