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The Definitive Guide to the Wonderland Trail

Get ready to trek around washington's most iconic mountain, through some of the best scenery in the lower 48..

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Imagine exploring both rainforests and vibrant mountain meadows within just a few miles on the same trail, all with a glacier-capped volcano rising in the background. That’s exactly what the Wonderland Trail is: a 93-mile (150 km) trek around Mt. Rainier, the most glaciated peak in the lower 48 states. Situated in the heart of Washington State, Mount Rainier National Park draws hikers ranging from local residents to out-of-state and international travelers. Whether you choose to hike the entirety of the Wonderland Trail or just wander in for a dayhike or two, a little advance planning will help you have the hike of your life on this postcard-worthy ramble.

Wonderland Loop Stats

Distance: 93-mile loop Total Elevation: 24,939 feet Daily Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,500-5,000 feet Difficulty: Strenuous Dog Friendly: No

Where is the best place to start?

There are three starting points where you can enter Mount Rainier National Park and access the Wonderland Trail. Be sure to check the park website for closures and other updates before you head out. 

South Side:

• Southwest Entrance: Paradise Road starts here, and runs through Longmire and ends at Paradise. From Paradise, it meets up with Stevens Canyon Road which leads to the southeast entrance by Ohanapecosh.

North Side (access by car is more sparse here):

•  Northwest Corner: Access the trail by Mowich Lake near the Carbon River entrance. 
• Northeast Corner: Head to the Sunrise entrance and access the trail either by the Sunrise Visitor Center or lower down the road by White River Campground.

How long will it take to complete the Wonderland Trail?

For the average backpacker, expect to hike between 7-14 days depending on how far you and your group are capable of hiking each day with a heavy overnight pack. Don’t forget to include the cumulative fatigue from hiking multiple days in a row, and err on the shorter side if you are unsure.

As a reference point, a 10-day adventure requires you to hike an average of nine miles per day whereas a two-week hike lets you cut down the mileage to about seven miles per day. This is a good baseline for how far apart you want your campsites to be.  Use the Wilderness Trip Planner to help you sketch out your trip.

Quick tip: If you plan to be out longer than a week, it may be beneficial to store food midway at a food cache or have a friend meet up with you to help restock your supplies. Good places to do this are at Mowich and Sunrise.

When is the best time to visit?

The most beautiful time to visit the Wonderland Trail is mid-summer when the snow has melted, the wildflowers are out, and the weather is stable and sunny. If you attempt the route before midsummer, you’ll need to be prepared for snow travel. The route’s highest point, the 6,750-foot Panhandle Gap, doesn’t melt out until late June or early July. Spring is also tricky because the snowmelt can create extreme flows that may damage bridges and trails and make them unsafe. In fall, the leaves start to change into golden hues but storms are common, and weather windows with no rain are rare.

Regardless of what time of year you hike, be sure to bring insulation and a rain shell; this is the PNW alpine—temps and weather are always variable. Stay up to date on trail and weather conditions on the park’s site .

Are permits needed to hike the Wonderland Trail?

For dayhiking, no permits are required other than the Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee or the Annual National Park Pass. If you choose to explore the Wonderland Trail on a multi-day trip, you’ll need a wilderness permit to use any of the 18 campsites next to the trail year-round. These permits are available on a lottery system, which opens each February. These permits are competitive—read more about the parameters on the permit website . 

How do you reserve campsites?

The best method for reserving campsites for your hike is through the lottery system, open from mid-February to early March every year. Successful applicants will have an early reservation opportunity between late February and early March. Although 1,800 applicants will be given a window to reserve, only 600 Wonderland thru-hikes are available during this early reservation period, meaning it’s still competitive even if you win the lottery. It helps to have your ideal camping itinerary ready early so you know when and where you want to stay and can make your reservations as soon as possible.   

Following the lottery, the remaining campsites open for reservations in late April. Outside of that, it is possible to piece together the remaining campsites, although you may have days of uneven hiking lengths—a 2-mile day and then a 15-mile day, for example—if you cannot get your ideal campsites. There is often more availability for partial Wonderland Trail backpacking trips.

Wonderland Trail: Section by Section

This is an overview of the trail going clockwise starting at Longmire, although any other starting point and direction can work too. No matter where you are on the trail remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and stay on the proper trail to avoid damaging off-trail areas, including the wildflower meadows which are extremely fragile.

Longmire to Carbon River

The westerly stretch from Longmire to Carbon River is filled with deep forest walks, glacial rivers, and colorful subalpine meadows. The trail begins by meandering through the forest and past Rampart Ridge—a worthy 1.5-mile detour for amazing views of Rainier. After a climb and short descent into the Kautz Creek Basin, you’ll reach Pyramid Creek Camp, a great place to rest before heading up another long ascent to Devil’s Dream Camp. As you continue past the field of purple lupine flowers surrounding Squaw Lake, you’ll find yourself at Indian Henry’s Hunting Grounds. This area has one of the most photogenic views of Rainier with an open subalpine meadow and old-school ranger patrol cabin.

If you can peel yourself away from the bewitching meadows, the moderate trail will take you to the famous Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge, the longest bridge in the national park. The swinging bridge is a jaw-dropping airy crossing above the glacial melt river and not for the faint of heart. A short climb brings you up and around Emerald Ridge for a great view of Glacier Island, a mass of rock rising from the Tahoma Glacier. Enjoy another rich meadow before descending back into the forest to the South Puyallup River Camp. Just a short few minutes walk further and you’ll get a view of the unique Devil’s Pipe Organ, a conglomerate of columnar lava cliffs.

Take a break at mile 18 at the aqua-blue St Andrews Lake before heading on to Klapatche, one of the most beautiful campsites along the trail. It boasts another green-blue lake and a subalpine view of Rainier. This is a prime tent spot for the sunset alone, which lights up Rainier at dusk.

The next section through the North Puyallup River Camp makes for a great autumn hike, with blueberry bushes along the trail and the mountain ash turning a spectacular golden yellow. Continue on to the campsite at Golden Lakes. The Sunset Park Patrol Cabin is located here and if you wander a little, you can find yourself an iconic sunset lake reflection view of Rainier.

Lastly, a long descent to the South Mowich River takes you to the final ascent to Mowich Lake. Be careful crossing the river. Sometimes a log bridge will take you across and other times, you may need to pick your way through the silty rocks. ( Trekking poles are a great idea here.)

Mowich to Sunrise

This northerly section has a large variety of scenery. You’ll experience wide-open river beds created by the melting glaciers, fields of wildflowers, and a vast, outer space-like ambiance of monochrome ash formed by an andesitic lava flow.

Take some time to restock with your food cache at the patrol cabin, catch up with friends over lunch by the picnic tables, or take a stroll around the many trails. Tolmie Peak Lookout has one of the best vantage points of Rainier. Eunice Lake below is teeming with wildflowers. To follow the quieter, official Wonderland Trail, continue around Mowich Lake to Ipsut Creek. Or, if you don’t mind the busier alternate route, hike through Spray Park, a wildflower paradise. 

Ipsut Creek Camp is not too far from Mowich and offers a lowland experience by the Carbon River. Walking along the Carbon River, you’ll cross another incredible suspension bridge, albeit shorter than the Tahoma Creek bridge. Soon, you’ll climb out of the river bed and pop out to Mystic Lake, which hosts another campsite and ranger station. The lake is a welcome sight with Old Desolate, a lonely mountain towering 1,000 feet above the lake, making for a slight change in background. Situated between the Carbon Glacier and Winthrop Glacier, Mystic Lake is a little fertile oasis nestled amongst trees. 

From the Mystic Camp, walk near the foot of the Winthrop Glacier before passing the Granite Creek Camp with more views of Rainier. You’re in for a treat as you head towards Sunrise (the northeast entrance of the park) with views that are other-worldly. The Burroughs Mountains have a moon-like quality to them, barren unlike any other section of the Wonderland Trail, but are surrounded by some of the most vibrant wildflower meadows.

Sunrise has many side trails and camps to choose from that are slightly off the main Wonderland Trail. You can watch summit climbers find their way up the Emmons Glacier or watch the sunrise from the Insta-popular Mt. Fremont Lookout. Despite the name, Sunrise is a great location for sunset in the summer because the sun sets far enough north to put on a beautiful display on both Rainier and the fields below.

Sunrise to Longmire

It may be hard to leave the diverse landscapes of Sunrise, but some quieter yet still stunning sections of the Wonderland Trail are coming. Pass the White River Campground and pick up the trail as it follows Fryingpan Creek up to Summerland. Wander through a dense forest of fir, spruce, and hemlock as you climb to the Summerland Camp, where the trees become sparse again and green grass carpets the ground.

Before long, the luscious green will transition briefly into the dry moon-like landscapes at Panhandle Gap. As you crest the gap, the views will open up beyond Rainier and all the way down to Mt. Adams with rolling ridges ahead. Quiet and beautiful, this is a favorite spot for many hikers. Soak in the scenery of the Ohanapecosh glacial moraine until you reach Indian Bar. Don’t forget to take a look at the waterfall on the Ohanapecosh River before passing through.

Next, traverse along the Cowlitz Divide and enjoy a few-mile stretch of magnificent views with Rainier as the main backdrop. At the bottom of the ridge, you’ll end up at Nickel Creek and another section of forest.

Save some time to take a few pictures at Box Canyon, a narrow slot canyon tumbling with whitewater, before you cross Stevens Canyon Road to follow Stevens Creek uphill. Along with Maple Creek Camp, you’ll pass over bridges and past waterfalls, like the 125-foot Martha Falls and fan-shaped Sylvia Falls. Reflection Lakes and Louise Lake are great places to stop for lunch and though there may be more visitors in this area, the views of Rainier are hard to beat.

While you can take a longer detour to visit Paradise, Longmire, and the end of the Wonderland Trail, is but a few miles away. Finish it up with a nice descent along Paradise River, with the babbling water flowing alongside the trail as you pass the hustle and bustle of Cougar Rock Campground. The trail will deposit you back at Longmire, where you can kick back in one of their outdoor wicker chairs and pat yourself on the back for the successful thru-hike.

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General Description

In all of Mount Rainier National Park, there’s one trail that beckons to adventurers and explorers the most. The Wonderland Trail circumnavigates Mount Rainier, traveling 93 miles and over 22,000 feet of total elevation gain. The trail follows high alpine ridges dotted with unique tundra flowers, drops into beautiful flower-strewn meadows, and past pristine lakes. But it’s not all alpine bliss–the true wonder of the Wonderland Trail is how diverse and unique each day is. Hike through towering old-growth forests, past cascading waterfalls, and high above treelike on this spectacular trail. And if you only have a day to visit, don’t fret. While the Wonderland Trail is best known as a backpacking destination, there are numerous dayhikes possible. Take a week or 10 days to hike the whole trail, or come for a day and bask in the beauty of Mount Rainier.

Explore Mount Rainier with Expert Guides

Getting to the Wonderland Trailhead

Because the Wonderland Trail is a complete loop around Mount Rainier, you can access the trail from many locations. Sunrise is one popular starting destination: from WA-410 on the East side of Mount Rainier, turn West on the Sunrise road to the Sunrise Visitor Center.  The road is usually closed between October and late June, so make sure to check the road conditions before you go.

History of the Wonderland trail

3 Best Day Hikes on the Wonderland Trails

Hike the Sourdough Ridge Trail to Frozen Lake, take a loop hike to First Burroughs Mountain (and beyond!), or head to the Mount Fremont Lookout.

Below are the primary options for day hiking at Sunrise.

1. Spray Park

Get off the beaten path with this lovely hike through dense forests and up to a sub-alpine paradise filled with flowers and peaks. This trail begins on the Wonderland Trail near Mowich Lake, takes you to stunning Spray Falls, and then climbs steeply up to lush green meadows dotted with flowers and surrounded with views of Mount Rainier, Echo Rock, and Obstruction Rock. Begin at the Wonderland trailhead near Mowich Lake, then follow a signed junction towards Spray Falls and Spray Park. A mellow 2 miles will take you to a short spur trail to Spray Falls, perfect for a family outing. Or, continue on after a refreshing break by the falls, and climb up a series of switchbacks to Spray Park. Rest in the shade or enjoy the warm mountain sun and the lush flowers of Spray Park. Return the way you came, or continue on to re-join the Wonderland Trail at Carbon River to turn it into an epic 16 mile loop with over 4,000 feet of elevation.

2. Summerland

Summerland is yet another wildflower utopia in a park full of them. But the best part about Summerland is, with its northeast aspect, the wildflowers here bloom, later in the season. So if you missed the main bloom at Paradise, head around to the far side of the mountain by the White River entrance, and hike this enchanted trail up to a bucolic meadow. Being at Fryingpan Creek, then follow the Wonderland Trail along Fryingpan Creek. The gorge gets deeper and more wild below you, but you’ll soon cross and turn up, climbing through changing forests until you emerge at the delightful Summerland. Keep an eye out for delicate white valerian flowers along moist stream sides, and for the profusion of purple lupine and fireweed, red castilleja, and more in the subalpine delight of Summerland. Picnic in this majestic meadow, with views of Mount Rainier towering above the wildflowers, or continue up into the alpine terrain of Panhandle Gap for views of the Goat Rocks, Mount Adams, and the southern Cascades far to your south.

3. Narada Falls to Reflection Lakes

Narada Falls is Mount Rainier’s most accessible waterfall, but don’t let the crowds dissuade you. This loop hike takes you past two of Mount Rainier’s famous landmarks–Narada Falls and the Reflection Lakes–and up to extraordinary views at Faraway Rock. Begin at the Narada Falls parking lot, head down the steep but well-maintained switchbacks to the viewing platform, and enjoy the pounding spray of Narada Falls. After you’ve soaked in the view (and the water!) follow signs for the Wonderland Trail and Reflection Lakes. Climb gently through towering fir trees to the mirror-like lakes, where on a still day Mount Rainier is perfectly reflected. Turn around here, or continue along the High Lakes Trail towards Faraway Rock. A steep climb takes you up to jaw-dropping views of the Tatoosh Range, Louise Lake, and Mount Rainier, and then a gentle ridge walk carried you through moist flowery meadows. Follow the Paradise River back to the trailhead, enjoying the tumbling cascades and polished rock under the water as you go.

Maximize Your Visit to Mount Rainier National Park on Hiking Tour

Multi-day packages   and dayhikes allow visitors the opportunity to make the most of their time in Mount Rainier National Park and to do it hassle-free. Guided tours include gear (backpack, trekking poles, crampons in winter), meals, accommodations on multi-day tours, local transportation, and a professional Washington hiking guide. Through their knowledge, stories, and personal passion, guides can bring a place to life in a way that’s much more difficult to do on your own. Read more about Mount Rainier Hiking Tours.

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3 Best Backpacking Trips on the Wonderland Trail

Thru-hike all 93 miles of the Wonderland Trail, or section-hike the greatest hits.

1. Summerland (2 days)

While Summerland is a fantastic dayhike, it’s an even better backpacking destination. Take your time hiking up to the stunning meadows at Summerland, then laze around in camp for as long as you like. Best of all, a backpacking trip to Summerland makes a dayhike up to Panhandle Gap more manageable and fun. Leave your gear at camp and just take the necessities up the steep switchbacks to Panhandle Gap, or spend two nights at Summerland and truly explore the Wonderland Trail.

2. Sunrise to Carbon River (2 days)

Hiking from Sunrise to Carbon River provides some of the best views and most delightful creeks, cascades, and wildflowers on the Wonderland Trail. Begin at Sunrise, then climb up to Sourdough Ridge, taking in the views from this high vantage point. You’ll drop down into flower-filled Berkeley Park quickly and leave the Sunrise crowds behind. Keep an eye out for marmots feasting on Lupine on this stretch of trail, then descend past delicate cascades and small alpine streams, where inky blue gentian and yellow monkey flowers nod under tricks of water. Many ups and downs will take you past Mystic Lake and Granite Creek, with views of the Emmons, Winthrop, and Carbon glaciers along your way. Camp at Granite Greek or Mystic Camp, then continue to the trailhead at Carbon River. You’ll need to arrange a car shuttle, or plan a return hike back to Sunrise.

3. Wonderland Thru-Hike (7-10 days)

The Wonderland Trail should be on every backpackers bucket list. It takes time, planning, and luck to get the permits, but it’s the trip of a lifetime if you can pull it off. You’ll gain and lose 22,000 feet of elevation over the 93 miles of trail, and get views of every single face of Mount Rainier, plus all of the delicate meadows, valleys, and vistas the park has to offer. If you’re looking to experience Mount Rainier fully, this is the hike for you. Mount Rainier National Park has a wealth of information for planning your trip and obtaining permits–this is a trip to begin planning a year in advance, although last-minute permits are sometimes available. Make sure to train well, and think about planning a resupply along the way to lighten your load.

When to Hike and Seasonal Considerations

Mount Rainier regularly receives record-breaking snowfall, and the snow can last well throughout the summer. The climate is also extremely mercurial–we say the mountain makes its own weather, to be prepared with plenty of layers and rain gear at all times. Sunrise often doesn’t open until the end of June, so make sure to plan accordingly. July-September is the perfect window, but October can have lovely weather and perfect huckleberries as well. Check the road conditions  and the weather before you go!

Necessary Permits

Day hike permits.

No permits are needed to day hike in Mount Rainier National Park

Backpacking Permits

Backpacking permit are required in Mount Rainier National Park. Walkup permits are sometimes available, but advance reservations are recommended,  and are absolutely critical for hiking on the Wonderland Trail

Suggested Packing List

Day hike packing list (edit).

• Lightweight hiking shoes or hiking boots
• Waterproof rain jacket and pants
• Warm wool or fleece top
• Warm hat and gloves (Spring, Fall, Winter)
• Water bottles or bladder (2 liters total capacity)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
• Salty, calorie-rich snacks
• trekking poles
• 1st aid kit

Backpacking Packing List

• all items listed for day hikes PLUS
• multi-day backpack
• 3-season tent
• sleeping bag
• sleeping pad
• backpacking stove and fuel
• backpacking meals
• 3 pairs wool socks
• extra t-shirts

Please Respect Our National Parks – Leave No Trace

We strongly recommend abiding by all Leave No Trace ethics guidelines and practices so that our national parks and public lands are preserved for the enjoyment of future generations and for the people and animals who call these places home. Simple things like packing out your trash, obeying national park rules, and respecting the peace and quiet of our national park trails is a great start. If you’re going on a backpacking trip, you can read about more about the 7 Leave No Trace Principles .

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Wonderland Trail Pt. 3: Mowich Lake to Sunrise

Distance:  21.5 miles one way, elevation gain :  6,300 feet, high point :  6,700 feet, snow free :  mid-july — october, introduction.

The Wonderland Trail travels for 93 miles around Mount Rainier. Constructed in 1915, it is one of the most beautiful, challenging, and popular hiking trails in America. The trail can be hiked in its entirety as a through hike usually typically taking 8-14 days to complete; or in shorter sections. Most people begin from Longmire and hike clockwise. This series of Wonderland Trail articles is meant as an introduction of what you can expect on this amazing trail. Be sure to consult with park officials for complete rules, permitting information and trail conditions before setting out. Consider too, these two excellent resources for more details: Green Trail Maps Mount Rainier Wonderland Trail Map 269S and Hiking the Wonderland Trail by Tami Asars (Mountaineers Books).

special information

Overnight permits required and can be acquired by making reservation in advance; or at the Longmire Wilderness Information Center (360) 569-445; Carbon River Ranger Station; or White River Wilderness Information Center. View complete permit information and park and trail rules and regulations .

Special rules : No Fires—use camp stove. Dogs prohibited.

Notes and special concerns : Spray Park Trail can be used as an alternative route to the Carbon River. However, this highly scenic route crosses permanent snowfields and can be treacherous in early season and inclement weather.

Trailhead directions : (South) From Buckley, follow SR 165 south for 10.3 miles bearing right on road to Mowich Lake. Continue another 16.8 miles (pavement ends at 1.6 miles) to road end at Mowich Lake. (North) From Enumclaw follow SR 410 east for 37.5 miles to Mount Rainier National Park, turning right onto the White River Road. Continue for 15.4 miles to Sunrise.

Mowich Lake (el. 4950 feet) is the largest and deepest in the park and shares its name with the Mowich River and Mowich Glaciers. Mowich means deer in the Chinook Jargon. Early Native Americans spotted within the glaciers and rock on Mount Rainier’s northwest side the figure of a deer. See if you can spot it—although it is most discernible from Spray Park. An easier site to spot is the Mowich Lake Patrol Cabin. Located a short distance from the camping area via a side trail, this 1922-built structure overlooks the lake and is still used by park personnel.

From the campground, the Wonderland Trail heads north crossing the lake’s outlet on a bridge and then hugging the pretty lake’s western shoreline. While the mowich figure on Mount Rainier might be elusive to decipher, you should have no problems sighting the real thing along the lake’s shores. Deer are profuse here. The trail rounds small coves and skirts lakeside ledges providing nice glimpses across placid waters to Fay and Castle Peaks and massive Mount Rainer. Beyond the lake, the trail commences a gentle climb through cool old growth forest to 5,150-foot Ipsut Pass.

Here, a scenic 1.7 mile side trail leads left to Eunice Lake and the Tolmie Peak Lookout. The sweeping views and gorgeous lake make this trail a worthy diversion from the Wonderland Trail. The Wonderland Trail continues north dropping steeply through brushy avalanche slopes to the Carbon River. En route take time to admire a massive Alaska Yellow Cedar, one of the largest in the state. The trail soon passes more massive trees traversing impressive groves of old-growth hemlocks. At 5.1 miles from Mowich Lake (39.1 miles from Longmire) you’ll reach a junction. Here at an elevation of 2,500 feet in the dank interior rainforest of the Carbon Valley is the lowest point on the Wonderland Trail.

The trail left leads 0.3 mile past Ipsut Falls to Ipsut Creek Campground, once accessible by automobiles before flooding warranted conversion of the Carbon River Road into trail. This trail continues west 5.1 miles to the Carbon River Ranger Station and can be used as an alternative starting point for your Wonderland Trail adventure.

From this junction, the Wonderland Trail now heads east following the wide and channeled glacier-fed silted Carbon River through an interior-rainforest. At 6.8 miles from Mowich (40.8 miles from Longmire) a side trail veers left to cross the Carbon River linking to the lonely and spectacular Northern Loop. It may be necessary to head this way as a detour as the one mile stretch of Wonderland Trail beyond is prone to washing out and in need of rehabilitation. If trail is open, continue straight along the roaring river reaching the Carbon River Camp in another mile. The thundering river should lull you to sleep at this camp.

Just beyond Carbon Camp, the trail crosses Cataract Creek and reaches a junction with the Spray Park Trail (alternative route from Mowich Lake). Now turn left continuing on the Wonderland Trail and cross the Carbon River on a 200-plus foot long suspension bridge. From the bridge you’ll get your first of the Carbon Glacier, the lowest (and one of the largest) glaciers in the Continental US.

Once across the bridge reach yet another junction (el. 3200 feet). Here the Northern Loop (insert link to Northern Loop Trail) (and the current one mile detour) leaves left heading down river before beginning its long climb to Windy Gap. You want to go right where you will begin a long climb to Mystic Lake. Following alongside the crashing Carbon River, leave forest and begin hiking up and alongside lateral glacial moraine. At 9.0 miles from Mowich Lake (43.0 miles from Longmire) reach the Dick Creek Camp (el. 4200 feet) with its two sites located just above cascading Dick Creek.

The trail now steeply climbs offering excellent views of the Carbon Glacier, largest of the radiating icy fingers emanating down from the mountain. Approaching Moraine Park, the climb eases. One of the prettiest spots along the Wonderland Trail, Moraine Park is punctuated with jumbled boulders and patches of brilliant wildflowers all under the watchful snowy eyes of Rainier. It’s also the home to scads of marmots often observed sunning on boulders and scurrying through lupine patches.

Climb once again reaching a 6,060-foot gap. Stop to admire the mountain before descending to Mystic Lake (el. 5,700 feet) set in a basin beneath craggy Mineral Mountain. The trail hugs the sparkling lake’s grassy shoreline crossing a few flowering bogs before reaching a junction. The trail left leads to another one of the park’s historic (and still in use) patrol cabins and to a great day use area on the lake perfect for picnicking, napping and wading.

The Wonderland Trail continues east descending into thick forest. At 12.8 miles from Mowich Lake (46.8 miles from Longmire) reach the Mystic Lake camps, one of the less attractive campsites along the trail. The Wonderland Trail continues a long descent reaching the terminal moraine of the massive Winthrop Glacier. Here Winthrop Creek streams from the glacier’s snout. On hot days it thunders from it.

Cross this milky, silted creek (el. 4,600 feet) on a foot log and begin yet another steep climb. Cross Granite Creek and pause to admire its tumbling Garda Falls. Then continue your ascent in cool forest eventually paralleling Granite Creek. At 17.2 miles from Mowich (51.2 miles from Longmire) come to Granite Creek Camp (el. 5,800 feet). The camp is well sheltered from the elements and located close to its cascading namesake.

Climb once again. A couple of sweeping switchbacks help lessen the pain. At 18.5 miles from Mowich (52.5 miles from Longmire) reach a 6,700-foot pass beneath Skyscraper Mountain. Views from the pass are sweeping, but they’re even better from Skyscraper’s 7,078-foot summit reached via a scramble path. Make the side trip or keep going traversing a barren and open cirque cradling Berkeley Park below. This section of trail is breathtaking across alpine tundra within the shadows of massive Mount Rainier. Views north to the Clearwater Wilderness peaks and beyond are impressive. After a slight descent and short ascent, reach at 19.7 miles from Mowich (53.7 from Longmire) the eastern terminus of the Northern Loop Trail.

Continue another 0.8 mile across rocky and open terrain reaching a five-way trail junction in a barren windswept gap (el. 6700 feet) above Frozen Lake. There are lots of options here for side trips. Left to Mount Fremont and Sourdough Ridge or right to Burroughs Mountain. The Wonderland Trail continues straight to Yakima Park. Located within the mountains’ rainshadow, the vegetation here is not as lush as Paradise. You’ll also notice different plant species combinations too, including the presence of whitebark pine which favors the high slopes east of the Cascade Crest.

At 21.1 miles from Mowich (55.1 miles from Longmire) reach a junction with the old Sunrise Camp Road since converted to trail. The old road continues straight about 0.6 mile to Sunrise where you can pick up cached supplies (or alternatively begin or end your Wonderland Trail hike). The Wonderland Trail turns right following the old road reaching in 0.4 mile Sunrise Camp (el, 6250 feet). Formerly a car campground, this nice but busy camp allows for excellent star gazing and serves as a great base to check out the aforementioned side trips from the gap. Rest up for the next section of trail, considered by many a Wonderland Trail hiker as the most visually stunning.

GPS waypoints :

Mowich Lake Camp:  N46 55.976 W121 51.802

Ipsut Creek Camp:  N46 58.654 W121 49.822

Carbon River Camp:  N46 56.988 W121 47.692

Dick Creek Camp:  N46 56.459 W121 47.049

Mystic Camp:  N46 54.932 W121 45.026

Granite Creek Camp:  N46 55.190 W121 42.461

Sunrise Camp:  N46 54.635 W121 39.599

By Craig Romano

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• October 24, 2021
• Trip Planning

From the time we started #parkchasing in 2010 , watching the sunrise in Acadia National Park ranked high on our national park bucket list. With some of the best views of the Atlantic coast in all of New England, there’s a good reason Acadia is famous for mornings.

As soon as we planned our Acadia itinerary , we started looking for spots to start the day. Today we’re sharing some of the most popular (and secret spots!) we found while researching where to watch the sunrise in Acadia National Park.

1. Cadillac Mountain

By far, the most popular place to watch sunset in Acadia National Park is Cadillac Mountain. In part it’s because at 1,530 feet, Cadillac is the tallest point in the park. (It’s also the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard!) But visitor’s also come to Cadillac because at certain times of the year, it’s the first place that the sun hits the United States seaboard.

Because of its popularity, Cadillac Mountain can be incredibly congested at sunrise. During the busy summer months, you should be prepared for long waits along Cadillac Mountain Road to park at the top. We visited in October and had difficulty finding a view of sunrise without people in it.

It makes our list of places to see the sunrise in Acadia National Park because its iconic–just be prepared that everyone else on vacation will be there also.

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2. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

If you’d like just as stunning of a sunrise view but with far less traffic and congestion, try another one of Acadia’s popular tourist spots: the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Located at the southern tip of Mount Desert Island, the lighthouse offers a perfect spot for ocean view sunrise. It’s also a popular spot for sunsets as well.

Be sure to arrive with plenty of time to park and walk the short trail down to the shore. The tides and rocks here can be unpredictable though, so make sure you pack a flashlight and hike with extra care.

3. Otter Point

As Cadillac Mountain has grown in popularity, the National Park Service has tried to recommend alternative locations to watch a sunrise. Otter Point and the Otter Cliffs are one of the places that park rangers now frequently recommend.

Located along Park Loop Road near the Ocean Path, Otter Point is an easy drive and has ample parking for vehicles at sunrise. With more than 2 miles of roadway, there are plenty of places for people to spread out and find some solitude.

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4. thunder hole.

Just a few minutes away from Otter Point is Thunder Hole, another good spot along Park Loop Road to catch a sunrise. Depending on the tide and wind conditions, you may also be treated to the unique sounds that give this area its name. When the tide is at the right level, the waves crashing into the rocks here create a deep, thunderous noise that can add some extra fun to a sunrise experience.

The Ocean Path leads in both directions from Thunder Hole. Park in the available lot and hike a few yards to find a clear spot to wait for the morning to arrive.

Related Posts:

• 25 National Parks Like Acadia
• Hiking in Acadia National Park: The Ocean Path Trail
• Hiking Acadia National Park: The Jordan Pond Path
• Camping in Acadia National Park: The Blackwoods Campground
• Visit all the National Park Service Sites in Maine

5. Thompson Island

If you would like a near 100% guarantee to watch a sunrise without another visitor around, try the parking area near the Thompson Island Information Center. Located on the north end of Mount Desert Island just as you enter the park, there’s a large open parking area for easy sunrise viewing.

If you’ve already gotten the mountain peak view at Cadillac and a rocky shoreline sunrise along the Ocean Path, Thompson Island will offer a completely different view. The scenery is much different here, with wide marshy flats and easy access to tidepools.

6. Schooner Head Overlook

Another secluded spot to watch the sunrise is along Schooner Head Road to the Schooner Head Overlook. The overlook area can be reached either by taking Schooner Head Road south from Bar Harbor or by turning off Park Loop Road just before the Sand Beach Entrance Station.

Schooner Head Overlook is well-suited for anyone with mobility issues as the view can be seen right from the parking area. It’s also possible to see Egg Rock and the Egg Rock Lighthouse from this location. If you prefer to get closer to the water, there is a short paved footpath that leads from the parking area. Be sure to bring a flashlight as it can be tricky to navigate in the dark.

7. Shore Path, Bar Harbor

Although technically not within Acadia National Park, another popular spot for sunrises on Mount Desert Island is the Shore Path in Bar Harbor. The path begins in downtown at the pier about 3/4 of a mile south along the eastern shore.

While it doesn’t offer the same scenery as the sunrise locations within Acadia National Park, it doesn’t require waking up extra early to drive either. You’ll also compete with the guests of the inns, hotels, and private homes along the Shore Path for sunrise views. It’s by far the best spot in Bar Harbor.

Things to Know About Watching Sunrise in Acadia National Park

Dragging yourself out of bed in the early hours of the morning while on vacation is no small feat. If you’re planning to catch a sunrise, there are some tips you’ll want to know so that you and your family have a memorable experience:

Plan ahead.

Decide ahead of time where you plan to watch the sunrise. Figure out how long it will take you to arrive at the destination, find a parking spot, and give yourself 5-10 minutes to settle in. At popular places like Cadillac Mountain, you’ll need to arrive well before sunrise.

Check sunrise schedules.

The park’s visitor’s centers will have posted sunrise times for each day you’re in the park. You can also check timetables online to give you an idea of when you need to be at the destination.

Check the weather.

It goes without saying that the weather in Acadia is unpredictable. Our first attempt to see the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain was a bust because of fog.

Dress warmly.

Even the warmest summer days in Acadia can start on the chilly side. Dress in layers and bring extras like a hat or gloves depending on weather conditions. The best locations to watch the sunrise are also exposed to the wind and elements, so be prepared.

What to Bring

Assuming your goal for sunrise is to capture some great photos and enjoy the landscape, it goes without saying that you’ll want to bring a good camera and tripod. If you need some additional national park photography tips, check out our series with National Park Patch Lady Sandra Ramos!

Other things to bring: 

• A blanket and extra layers — even in the summer months, temperatures drop quickly as the sun goes down.
• A sturdy camp chair  
• Board games, playing cards or a national park trivia — In Acadia you may need to stake out your spot for sunrise an hour or more ahead.  Our travel-size cribbage board is never too far away before the sun comes up.
• Warm beverages are nice.  Don’t bother with coffee or hot chocolate in the hotel.  Put it in an insulated travel mug and enjoy the extra warmth while you’re waiting for sunrise.

Bring a flashlight or headlamp. We watched plenty of people struggling to navigate on Cadillac Mountain in the dark. The trails in Acadia are rocky and can be slippery if it’s wet. Make sure to pack a flashlight or headlamp .

Park Chasers is a participant in several affiliate programs. Purchasing from these links supports us in sharing more content and national park travel with no additional cost to you.  As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.

Celebrating National Park Week 2020

How To Take Better National Park Photos, Part III: Half the Park is After Dark

How To Take Better National Park Photos – An Introduction

One final tip:  pack the night before..

Gather up everything you’ll need for the early morning excursion the night before. That way you can spend a few extra minutes sleeping rather than scrambling to find your camera and gear.

What Else to Do In Acadia National Park

Need trip planning advice for the rest of your time in Acadia?  Check out these other posts on hiking, camping, and enjoying nearby parks in Maine.

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All About African Burial Ground National Monument

Diverse NPS: The Memorial Foundation

70 National Parks To Learn About Racial Inequality

National Parks Honoring President Abraham Lincoln

5 National Parks To Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day

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THE PARK CHASERS

Greg & Amy Chasing a visit to all 400+ units in the NPS Current Count: 130/423 Next Stop: @hawaiivolcanoes

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• Acadia National Park , Bar Harbor , Maine National Parks , Where to see sunrise

4 thoughts on “7 Places to Watch the Sunrise in Acadia National Park”

Our favorite time to drive along the park loop road is just after sunrise. There is no traffic, plenty of solitude to enjoy, and the early sun makes photographing wonderful, the Rock colors and shadows really stand out

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Wonderland Trail Backpacking Guide

The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile (150 km) circuit located in Washington’s Mount Rainier National Park with over 23,000 ft / 7,090 m of elevation gain. 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 . There are a number of different starting points for the Wonderland Trail and it can be hiked clockwise or counterclockwise.

If you’re feeling ambitious, the hike can be done in three days (or fewer if you’re truly a beast), but most hikers choose itineraries calling for six to eight days.

Wonderland Trail Basics

• Location: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA
• Length: 93 mi / 150 km
• Type: Circuit
• Officially Recommended Time: 6 to 8 days?
• My Suggested Time: 5 days
• Possible Time: 2 or 3 days
• Most Popular Months: July/August
• Booking Required: Yes*
• Application Cost: $20 (per group)
• Max Group Size: 5 for an individual permit, 12 for group permit (min 6)
• Permit Required: Yes
• Permit Cost: $0 (covered by application cost)
• Mount Rainier Summit Location: 46.852326, -121.760328
• Cougar Rock Campground/Longmire ( map )
• White River Campground ( map )
• Mowich Lake Campground ( map )
• Elevation Gain: 25,293 ft / 7,709 m (although it’s officially reported as 23,000 ft / 7,010 m – the larger number was recorded by my GPS)
• High Point: Panhandle Gap (6,750 ft / 2,060 m)
• Low Point: Ipsut Creek Campground (2,300 ft / 701 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous

* More on permits (including how to hike the Wonderland Trail without a permit) below .

How to get to the Wonderland Trail

The only way to reach the Wonderland Trail is by car. There are no public transportation options for getting to Mount Rainier National Park. The closest major cities are Seattle, Tacoma, and Yakima in Washington or Portland, Oregon.

• Accessible via public transportation: No
• Trailhead parking: Yes
• Trailhead coordinates (with parking): Longmire ( map ), Cougar Rock Campground ( map ), Reflection Lake ( map ), Box Canyon ( map ), White River Campground ( map ), Sunrise Visitor Center ( map ), Mowich Lake Campground ( map )

BY CAR: To get to Mount Rainier National Park via car, you will need to pay an entry fee of $30 (per vehicle, not person). If you’ve got your own car and frequent the national parks, you should probably get an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass if you don’t already have one (unlimited entry to all national parks for a year). All of the trailheads listed above have nicely paved roads leading to them with the exception of Mowich Lake Campground which requires you to drive 16 mi / 26 km down an unpaved road (it’s not that rough – no 4WD or high-clearance vehicle needed). You can check the status of the park’s roads here .

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Unfortunately, this is not an option. This is America, people here don’t believe in public transportation.

BY PRIVATE TRANSPORT: If you poke around the internets, I am sure you can find (actually, not so sure) various companies offering rides to/from various trailheads within Mount Rainier National Park. If you can get to Tacoma, Washington, it’s about $100 for an Uber to Longmire (or $150 from Seattle) – not terrible if you’re a group of four.

HITCHHIKING: If you can make it out of the city and past the major freeways/highways, I am sure that hitchhiking in would be possible. The closer to the park you get, the easier (presumably) it will be to score a ride. Hitchhiking in Washington is illegal on freeways, but not on the on-ramps (but don’t quote me on this). If you walk into the park (past a checkpoint) there is a “per person” fee of $15 (this applies to bicycles as well). Best to get a hitch that’s actually driving into the park (you won’t cost them anything extra for being in the car). That said, hitchhiking is technically illegal within Mount Rainier National Park, but I would be surprised if a ranger gave you trouble for hitchhiking somewhere safe and out of the road.

Notes on the trail

• The Wonderland Trail can be hiked clockwise or counterclockwise . I hiked the trail counterclockwise; the most popular route is clockwise. Which way should you hike it? Honestly, I don’t think it matters.
• Clockwise is the more popular way people hike the Wonderland Trail (but as I said, I don’t think it matters which way you go).
• Longmire is the most popular starting point on the Wonderland Trail. Here, you will find a ranger station, a small store (with mostly souvenirs), and a hotel.
• I began my hike at Mowich Lake Campground which features a 16 mi / 26 km drive down an unpaved road , pit toilets, picnic tables, and trash cans.
• The most popular time for hiking the Wonderland Trail is from mid-July through mid-September . The earlier you go, the more potential there is for snow there is; the later you go, the more potential for cold.
• July and August are the driest and warmest months in Mount Rainier National Park.

Wonderland Trail Weather

Washington and the Pacific Northwest are notorious for rain. The permanent glaciers surrounding Mount Rainier (which, hopefully, you will see plenty of during your time on the Wonderland Trail) are a testament to this.

July and August are the driest months of the year at Mount Rainier and are therefore also the most popular months to hike the Wonderland Trail. June and September are also relatively dry, at least compared to the rest of the year, but you can also expect slightly lower temperatures during these months.

I hiked the Wonderland Trail over three days in September and had one day of rain, one day of clouds, and one beautiful day of the most glorious sun.

Wonderland Trail Permits

“How do I get a Wonderland Trail permit?” The first hurdle to a Wonderland Trail hike.

There are four ranger stations where Wonderland Trail permits may be picked up or applied for as a walk-up. They are:

• Longmire Wilderness Information Center ( map )
• Paradise Wilderness Information Center ( map )
• White River Wilderness Information Center ( map )
• Carbon River Ranger Station ( map )

NOTE: After September 28, permits are only available at Longmire (daily) or the Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise (weekends only).

Applying Online

You can apply online for the Wonderland Trail advance-reservation lottery beginning in late February each year on Recreation.gov . Two-thirds of permits are distributed via the advance-registration lottery and subsequent online general sale.

Spots on the Wonderland Trail fill up quickly, and by April, the park generally stops accepting permit applications (for the Wonderland Trail). Applications are processed in random order. The cost for entering the lottery is $6 and the cost for a permit (if you’re awarded one) is an additional $20.

Walk-Up Permits

One-third of the wilderness permits for Mount Rainier National Park are reserved for in-person walk-ups.

These permits can be issued the same day as your trip’s start date or one day before – no earlier. Wonderland Trail walk-up permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at each of the four ranger stations .

Also, if you’re planning on hiking the Wonderland Trail beginning after September 28, you are required to get a walk-up permit (first come, first served).

Tips for Getting a Permit

There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting a Wonderland Trail permit.

• Check the number of sites for each backcountry campsite you plan to stay at. Some campsites only have two or three individual sites which can hurt your chances.
• Incorporate the three frontcountry campgrounds (Mowich Lake, Cougar Rock, and White River) into your itinerary if possible. These campgrounds have space allotted for backpackers and, worst case, you can always pay for a site at Cougar Rock or White River.
• The shorter your Wonderland Trail itinerary, the better your odds are of getting a permit (fewer nights competing for spots at a campsite).
• Remember that there are a handful of campsites you can stay at located off the Wonderland Trail as well (under 2 mi / 3.2 km). Getting to/from one of these nearby campsites may be worth the extra legwork if it means getting a permit for the start/end day you want.
• For walk-up permits, be flexible with your itinerary – if just one campsite you’re hoping to stay at is full your entire itinerary will be rejected. Have multiple plans ready when attempting to get a walk-up permit.
• If you’re hoping for a walk-up permit, start your trip mid-week to avoid competing with weekend backpackers also hoping for a walk-up permit.
• For walk-up permits, remember that unclaimed Wonderland Trail permits are canceled at 10 am the day they’re scheduled to start, so don’t give up hope if there were no permits available when the ranger station opened.

Hiking Without a Permit

Lastly, know it’s possible to hike the Wonderland Trail without a permit – you just have to complete the 93-mi / 150-km loop in three days .

The permit people get for the Wonderland Trail allows for camping in the backcountry; there’s no permit needed for hiking during the day. Luckily, there are three frontcountry campsites spaced fairly evenly around the Wonderland Trail, Mowich Lake Campground , Cougar Rock Campground , and White River Campground . Mowich Lake is a free, primitive campground (pit toilets) with a self-registration booth in the parking lot. Cougar Rock and White River Campgrounds are full-service campgrounds (flushing toilets) with campsite fees of $20 each. Here are the distances between the tree frontcountry campgrounds:

• Cougar Rock Campground clockwise to Mowich Lake Campground: ~36 mi / 58 km
• Mowich Lake Campground clockwise to White River Campground: ~26 mi / 42 km
• White River Campground clockwise to Cougar Rock Campground: ~33 mi / 53 km

All three of these campgrounds are accessible via car (Mowich Lake Campground requires 16 mi / 26 km of travel down an unpaved road).

Wonderland Trail Campsites

Camping along the Wonderland Trail is only allowed in one of the 21 designated campsites (18 backcountry and 3 frontcountry). Individual sites can accommodate up to five people and group sites allow for up to twelve.

Here is a list of all the campsites along the Wonderland Trail with distances to the next campsite (in each direction). Remember, there are a handful of campsites within 2 mi / 3.2 km of the Wonderland Trail that you can stay at as well (if you want to be flexible with your itinerary to increase your chances of getting a permit). If you want to follow along, you can find the Mount Rainier National Park wilderness planner (including a map with distances) here .

Camping in undesignated sites is permitted within cross-country and alpine zones is possible by permit only.

Wonderland Trail Itinerary

How many days does it take to hike the Wonderland Trail? A backcountry permit for Mount Rainier National Park allows for a maximum stay of 14 nights , which means that if you want to complete the Wonderland Trail on a single permit, you will need to average at least 6.64 mi / 10.69 mi per day.

You may choose to hike either clockwise or counterclockwise and you may begin your hike from wherever you would like. Remember, your permit governs where you camp, not where you start/end .

Here are some example itineraries (all going clockwise):

5-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Cougar Rock Campground to Golden Lakes (21.35 mi / 34.36 km)
• Day 2: Golden Lakes to Ipsut Creek Campground (15.8 mi / 25.43 km)
• Day 3: Ipsut Creek Campground to Sunrise Camp (18.6 mi / 29.93 km)
• Day 4: Sunrise Camp to Nickel Creek (19.8 mi / 31.87 km)
• Day 5: Nickel Creek to Cougar Rock Campground (12.75 mi / 20.52 km)

7-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Cougar Rock Campground to South Puyallup River (12.85 mi / 20.68 km)
• Day 2: South Puyallup River to Golden Lakes (11.5 mi / 18.51 km)
• Day 3: Golden Lakes to Ipsut Creek (15.8 mi / 25.43 km)
• Day 4: Ipsut Creek to Granite Creek (13.5 mi / 21.73 km)
• Day 5: Granite Creek to Summerland (14 mi / 22.53 km)
• Day 6: Summerland to Nickel Creek (10.9 mi / 17.54 km)
• Day 7: Nickel Creek to Cougar Rock Campground (12.75 mi / 20.52 km)

10-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Cougar Rock Campground to Devil’s Dream (6.75 mi / 10.86 km)
• Day 2: Devil’s Dream to Klapatche Park (9.8 mi / 15.77 km)
• Day 3: Klapatche Park to Golden Lakes (7.8 mi / 12.55 km)
• Day 4: Golden Lakes to Mowich Lake Campground (10.2 mi / 16.42 km)
• Day 5: Mowich Lake Campground to Dick Creek (9.8 mi / 15.77 km)
• Day 6: Dick Creek to Granite Creek (9.3 mi / 14.97 km)
• Day 7: Granite Creek to White River Campground (7.3 mi / 11.75 km)
• Day 8: White River Campground to Indian Bar (11.2 mi / 18.02 km)
• Day 9: Indian Bar to Maple Creek (10 mi / 16.09 km)
• Day 10: Maple Creek to Cougar Rock Campground (9.15 mi / 14.73 km)

As discussed in the permit section above, you can also hike the Wonderland Trail without in permit if it’s done as a three-day trip :

• Day 1: Cougar Rock Campground to Mowich Lake Campground (~36 mi / 58 km)
• Day 2: Mowich Lake Campground to White River Campground (~26 mi / 42 km)
• Day 3: White River Campground to Cougar Rock Campground (~33 mi / 53 km)

Wonderland Trail Gear & Packing List

Most people would probably consider the Wonderland Trail a long-distance backpacking trip, and so it’s generally recommended that you pack appropriately for what could be an adventure of up to 15 days (if you’re really taking advantage of those 14 nights allowed by the permit).

If you don’t know what you should be packing for a trip like this, you probably shouldn’t be hitting the Wonderland Trail, but there are a few things that are worth highlighting/pointing out just in case.

• Do you know what is awesome? Maps. You should probably invest in the National Geographic Mount Rainier National Park Trail Map if you want to be really cool.
• You need a shelter (tent) to hike the Wonderland Trail (at least you should have one if you don’t like sleeping in the rain). Although shelters are available at some campsites, most are primitive sites with nothing more than a cleared patch of ground for you to sleep on. I used a Big Agnes Copper Spur 2 Platinum on my hike and it was the best.
• The chance of rain is high and you should probably bring appropriate gear for the conditions (for most people this probably means at least a rain jacket). Check out the Arc’teryx Zeta SL for something ultralight (but effective) or the Arc’teryx Beta SL for something a bit more bombproof.
• If you’re hiking in the middle of the summer (i.e. warmer temperatures), you probably want to invest in some repellant as mosquitoes can be bad (I am a big fan of Sawyer Picaridin Spray ).
• Carrying a phone? Worried about getting lost? Want to know how far you are from the next campsite or water source? Get the Wonderland Trail App from FarOut Guides and you (probably) won’t regret it.

If you want more recommendations on backpacking gear, check out my current gear list or gear reviews .

Resupply and Food Caches

Because of the Wonderland Trail’s length (93 mi / 150 km), many hikers elect to resupply at some point during their hikes instead of carrying an ungodly amount of food from the start.

There are four locations where Wonderland Trail hikers can cache food:

• White River Campground food cache container near ranger station ( map )
• Sunrise Old Gas Station food cache container ( map )
• Mowich Lake Patrol Cabin food cache container ( map )

Food caches can be dropped off in-person prior to the beginning of your hike or mailed ahead to the park. Because of rodents (the threat is real, one got into my car at Mowich Lake Campground), all food caches are required to be in a plastic/clearly labeled container .

Cache labels must contain:

• The location the cache is being picked up at
• The approximate date the cache is being picked up (if known)
• Your permit number (if known)

Food on the Trail

I’m constantly trying to evolve my backcountry food game (i.e. make healthier decisions) and I think I did a solid job fueling my three-day circuit of the Wonderland Trail. Here are some of my favorite snacks/meals from the trail:

• Lemon Zest + Herb
• Ancho Chili + Lime
• Rainbow Peppercorn
• Sweet + Smoky Original
• Joe Chocolates (Coffee + Chocolate)
• Mountain House Fusilli Pasta with Italian Sausage

I’m always looking for new (and especially healthier) backpacking meals and snacks. I’ve found that not eating only chocolate on the trail can really improve my performance (and mood). If you have any suggestions for new foods to try, let me know in the comments!

If you are mailing food ahead to yourself, here are the addresses for each of the locations ( NOTE: not all locations accept USPS, UPS, and FedEx – confirm the address and shipping method before sending out your resupply).

Longmire Wilderness Information Center UPS or FedEx

Mount Rainier National Park 1 NPS Warehouse Longmire, WA 98397 ATTN: Longmire WIC

White River Campground OR Sunrise Visitor Center USPS, UPS, or FedEx

Mount Rainier National Park White River WIC 70002 SR 410 East Enumclaw, WA 98022

Mowich Lake Patrol Cabin via UPS or FedEx ( PREFERRED )

Mount Rainier National Park Carbon River Ranger Station 35415 Fairfax Forest Reserve Road East Carbonado, WA 98323

Mowich Lake Patrol Cabin via USPS

Mount Rainier National Park Carbon River Ranger Station P.O. Box 423 Wilkeson, WA 98396

Notes on Food Caches

• Fuel (gas cans, HEET, white gas, etc.) cannot be sent in your cache (you aren’t allowed to mail it). Additionally, fuel must be stored separately from (outside of) your cache’s plastic container. You may hand-deliver fuel to one of the four cache locations at the beginning of the section.
• You must mail or hand-deliver your food caches to the locations where you intend to pick them up . The park will not distribute your food caches for you.
• The park suggests mailing your cache so it arrives at least two weeks before you expect to pick it up.

Trail Description

The Wonderland Trail is quite literally, a walk in a park. The Wonderland Trail is not, figuratively a walk in the park.

As you would expect from a national park, the physical trail is brilliantly maintained and there is infrastructure for every water crossing. In addition to log crossings (with railings), you’ll find the Tahoma Creek Suspension Bridge between Devil’s Dream and South Puyallup River.

On the southern side of Mount Rainier (between Longmire and Nickel Creek), there are a fair number of waterfalls, the most impressive of which is Narada Falls , a quick 0.1 mi / 160 m detour off the Wonderland Trail (worth the detour).

There is also a cool box canyon next to the road between Snow Creek and Nickel Creek (there are also bathrooms and trash cans here).

Your time on the Wonderland Trail will be split above and below the tree line – which is 6,500 to 7,500 ft (1,980 to 2,286 m) in Mount Rainier National Park. However, most of the Wonderland Trail lies below 6,000 ft / 1,829 m. The only sections of the trail above this altitude are those between Summerland and Indian Bar and between Granite Creek and Sunrise.

With over 23,000 ft / 7,010 m of elevation gain (although my GPS recorded 25,293 ft / 7,709 m), that works out to just under 250 ft of elevation gain per mile (48 m per km) – assuming you’re climbing for all 93 mi / 150 km. When you cut that distance in half (because you’re going down half the time), the elevation gain per mile averages out to 500 ft per mile (94 m per km). All that math works out, right?

Basically, you just have to know that there are some serious climbs.

Heading clockwise, the Wonderland Trail has five sustained climbs over 2,000 ft / 610 m. Heading counterclockwise, there are six. Maybe this is why people tend to go clockwise? Regardless of which way you decide to hike, you will be doing a lot of climbing (and descending).

The highest point on the Wonderland Trail is Panhandle Gap (6,750 ft / 2,060 m); the lowest point on the Wonderland Trail is Ipsut Creek Campground (2,300 ft / 701 m).

The Spray Park Alternate

Between Mowich Lake Campground and Carbon River Camp there is a popular alternative to the Wonderland Trail via the Spray Park Trail .

The Spray Park Trail is 7.8 mi / 12.6 km long and bypasses 8.5 mi / 13.7 km of the Wonderland Trail – making it 0.7 mi / 1.1 km shorter . Hikers opting to take Spray Park will miss the climb up and over Ipsut Pass (5,118 ft / 1,560 m), and will instead climb to 6,400 ft / 1,951 m on the western slope of Mount Rainier.

Basically, the Spray Park alternate is slightly shorter, adds a fair amount of climbing, and is more scenic than the official Wonderland Trail.

There are also two backcountry campsites located along the Spray Park Trail, Eagle’s Roost and Cataract Valley.

Spray Falls (via the Spray Park Trail) is also a popular day hike from Mowich Lake Campground. More on this hike here .

Wonderland Trail Map

This is a GPS track for the Wonderland Trail. This track should be used for illustrative purposes only and should NOT be used for navigation. I’ve marked the ranger stations, trailheads, and points of interest.

The Wonderland Trail is popular for a reason – it’s a beautifully maintained trail around an impressive and imposing mountain (that’s Mount Rainier, in case you’re somehow reading this and don’t already know this). However, getting a permit for a Wonderland Trail hike can be a pain (if you don’t get one via the lottery).

Is the Wonderland Trail worth it? Probably, yeah. Is it the greatest thing ever and should you be crushed if you don’t end up getting a permit? No, it’s certainly not that. And if you are really dead set on hiking it, just head to the park with plenty of time to spare and try for a walk-up permit.

If you don’t end up getting a permit for the Wonderland Trail and hanging out in the park waiting to score a walk-up permit isn’t your idea of a good time, you try for a permit for the Enchantments or opt to hike in North Cascades National Park instead. There’s no shortage of mountains to be explored in Washington (or of Sasquatch to be found).

Hopefully, you found this post useful. I’m always looking to improve my hiking guides (and, more specifically, Wonderland Trail-specific information), if you have any suggestions to improve or update this guide, please leave a comment below or get in touch .

• Wonderland Trail Permits (Recreation.gov)
• The Wonderland Trail (Mount Rainier National Park)
• Elevation Profile
• Trip Planner (distances between campsites)
• Mount Rainier National Park Map (with distances)
• Mount Rainier National Park Home
• Mount Rainier National Park Map (overview)
• Mount Rainier National Park Permits
• Mount Rainier Road Status
• Mount Rainier Weather
• Cougar Rock Campground Map
• White River Campground Map

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Wonderland Trail Day 10: Sunrise to Summerland

• August 14, 2019
• Jeff Hester

For Day 10 on the Wonderland Trail, we returned to double-digit mileage after three short days. Our legs were well rested, and we were looking forward to seeing Summerland.

The trail followed cairns to a log bridge crossing the White River that was looking a little dicey. Later in the day as the river level rises, this might not have been a safe option. The optional detour took you a mile down the road, but thankfully we were able to avoid that.

Once across the White River, the trail parallels the river down to the Frying Pan Creek Trailhead, roughly 6.25 miles in. We stopped for a break, and then started the climb.

The trail parallels Frying Pan Creek for about four miles, then crosses and begins a series of switchbacks up to Summerland.

Summerland is indeed stunning, and we were fortunate to have beautiful weather to enjoy it. Views, wildflowers, snowfields, babbling creeks–Summerland delivers on all counts.

We were also lucky to be assigned the group site here (it was designated on our permit). The group site is a three-sided stone shelter, which meant we didn’t need to pitch tents.

It also provided a great venue for an impromptu birthday bash for a fellow Wonderland Trail hiker from Las Vegas, Brian. A few other hikers that we had met along the way including Brad and his daughter and some nice ladies from Canada joined in and we shared a beer, some awesome homemade jerky and wished a fellow hiker happy birthday.

Sunrise to Summerland Trail Map and Elevation Profile

Originally hiked on August 14, 2019 with Derek and Jason.

Back to Day 9  |   Continue to Day 11, Summerland to Indian Bar

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Laurel Canyon Tours

Stroll through rock and roll paradise!

Meet Your Hosts

Greetings, friends!  

Thank you for visiting our website, and welcome to our little slice of heaven in the hills.  As a seasoned residents of Laurel Canyon, we're excited to give you a local insider point of view, and  take you on a journey back in time.  

Memories will come to life as you enter this land of wonder, and see L.A. like you've never seen it before!  Along the way, we'll show you where legendary rock stars lived, and share stories about the nature and history of L.A.’s most magical and mythical neighborhood: Laurel Canyon.

We invite you to take a walk on the wild side!

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Visitor Information

Adventure awaits you.

For the first time ever, go behind-the-scenes on a guided hiking tour through 1960's rock and roll paradise! See the former homes of Neil Young (Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young), John Lennon (the Beatles), Frank Zappa (Mothers of Invention), Glenn Frey (the Eagles), Jackson Browne, Paul Rothchild (Doors' Producer), Arthur Lee (Love), Slash (Guns N' Roses), John Mayall (Bluesbreakers), Ginger Rogers (dancer), Bette Davis (actress), and more! Along the way you will learn about the nature and history of Laurel Canyon, and see the most beautiful scenic views of LA !!!!!

Where the Craziest People Live

Joni Mitchell recalls L.A.'s Laurel Canyon reputation the 1960s and 1970s: "When I first came out to L.A. in 1968, my photographer Joel Bernstein found an old book in a flea market that said: Ask anyone in America where the craziest people live and they'll say Los Angeles. Ask anyone in Los Angeles where the craziest people live and they'll tell you Hollywood. Ask anyone in Hollywood where the craziest people live and they'll say Laurel Canyon."

Coming to the Canyon

What to bring: comfortable shoes, wide brimmed hat, bottled water, sunscreen. 

We will be walking approximately 2-3 miles (moderate fitness level required).  Be prepared for a fun, active, and invigorating hike!

Experience the Best of L.A.

See these famous rockers' old houses, neil young house, john lennon treehouse.

Crosby , Stills, Nash, and Young

John Densmore

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Glen Frey House

Jackson browne house, frank zappa house.

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Buffalo Springfield

Slash House

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Guns N' Roses

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Please reach us at [email protected] if you cannot find an answer to your question.

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There is a combination of moderate uphill and downhill terrain.  We will walk at your pace for maximum comfort and enjoyment.

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Northern Lights in Russia: Arctic Winter Magic

Duration 12 days

Price from USD $3,550 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Cultural, Northern Lights

Time of year Dec - March

Home / Moscow Tours / Northern Lights in Russia: Arctic Winter Magic

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Russian winter turns cities a dazzlingly photogenic white, and reveal the true beauty of the Kola Peninsula, whose Arctic skies are often graced with the mythical Aurora Borealis.

Russian winters are harsh yet extraordinarily beautiful, and it’s the lands above the Arctic Circle where winter's transformational effects are most keenly felt. The Kola Peninsula is home to people and animals who not only survive but thrive despite the chilling temperatures. Ending in the 'capital' of the Arctic Circle, Murmansk, this Northern Lights tour shows you two sides to life in the Russian Winter, from the grandiose cities of Moscow and St Petersburg to the polar landscapes of the remote Kola Peninsula.

Northern Lights in Russia tour highlights: 

• Moscow City Tour: Begin your journey in Russia’s mighty capital discovering Moscow's highlights. Start with a guided exploration of the Kremlin in its finest winter decorations, before heading underground to discover the famous Moscow Metro system and its lavishly decorated subterranean stations
• Armed with the knowledge of an expert guide, uncover some of the most esteemed treasures among the 3 million works of art in St Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum
• Hovercraft Ride: Visit the small rural settlement of Kizhi Island, today an enchanting open-air museum with over 80 original wooden structures from the 14th to 17th  centuries. In the middle of Lake Obega, Kizhi is only accessible in winter via a hovercraft able to navigate the icy, aquatic terrain
• Polar Nights and Astral Lights: Crossing into the Kola Peninsula, you'll spend four nights above the Polar Circle where the chance to experience the Northern Lights in all their splendour is a tantalising prospect each evening
• Visit one of the Kola Peninsula’s largest indigenous Saami settlements. Learn about their ancient  culture, customs and cuisines and try your hand at essential Saami skills like reindeer lassoing and husky sledding

On this trip to see the northern lights in Russia, we begin in Moscow, where the city’s monuments, parks and churches are transformed into a scene from a winter fairy tale, all icing sugar snow and shimmering lights. Next, we head north to Saint Petersburg, where you can enjoy world-class attractions like the Hermitage at a leisurely pace, free of the tourist crowds typical of the summer months.

Forging closer to Arctic Circle, we’ll stop to admire the Ruskeala Mountain Park, spending a day absorbing the park's natural beauty, including shimmering waterfalls and the amazing, 100m deep Marble Canyon. During winter evenings, the canyon is illuminated by a dream-like display of multi-coloured lights. Next, we'll navigate the icy waters of Lake Onega on a day trip to historic Kizhi Island.

Finally, we’ll cross into the Polar North, arriving in the Kola Peninsula by train. Discover the customs of the indigenous Saami and traverse their snowy lands in sleds pulled by huskies and reindeer. Finally, we reach Murmansk, the largest city in the Kola Peninsula. While there’s the possibility to observe Aurora Borealis throughout our time in the Kola, Murmansk and the surrounding area is regarded as one of the best places in the world to experience the psychedelic light display in all its awe-inspiring glory.

This tour perfectly encapsulates the charm, allure and beauty of both urban and rural Russia in winter. From the cities to the mountains to the Arctic Circle, you'll witness magical sights and scenes that can only be experienced in the season of ice, snow and amazing astral projections that light up the darkest winter nights in unforgettable fashion.

Accomodation

Cultural, Northern Lights

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Type of tour

12 days / 11 nights

min 2 people

Private tour

Itinerary View map

Day 1 welcome to moscow.

Arrive in Moscow and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Get your first taste of life in the Russian metropolis, exploring the city at your leisure.

Day 2 Moscow: Red Square, Kremlin and Armoury Chamber

Our first acquaintance with Moscow starts with a walking tour of the historical city centre. Almost every building in the historical centre of Moscow is associated with different events and celebrated personalities of Russian history and culture.

You will see and hear the stories of the most popular places in the city: Red Square , the hub of Russia, with its fantastic "stone flower"- St. Basil Cathedral , one of the symbols of Moscow; fancy Manezhnaya Square with the Zero Kilometer, a starting point for all Moscow roads;  Alexander’s Garden  with the eternal flame, a WW2 memorial, where you might watch a change of guards. These are places that make Moscow one of the most beautiful cities in Russia.

Have a delicious lunch in one of the multiple downtown cafes or restaurants and continue the day with a tour of the  Kremlin grounds and Armoury Chamber . The Kremlin used to be a fortress then the residence of the Russian Tsars.

After the Revolution of 1917, the USSR Government moved in it. Now it is the seat of the Russian President and a unique cultural museum complex that consists of palaces, cathedrals and museums.

You will tour the grounds of the Kremlin and visit its strikingly beautiful cathedrals full of ancient frescoes and icons, such as Assumption Cathedral  where Russian tsars and emperors were crowned; Archangel Cathedral  - the burial vault of the Russian tsars until 18th centuries; and  Annunciation Cathedral , a home church for the royalty. 

You will get to meet the 2 prominent Russian tsars in person:  the Tsar Bell and the Tsar Cannon , the biggest in the world. Kremlin will surely reveal you some mysteries of the Russian state and soul.  

While touring the Kremlin you will also visit Armoury Chamber, famous for the Tsar's regalia such as jewellery crowns, orbs and sceptres, clothing of the Russian tsars and tsarinas, royal carriages, collection of arms and armour, gifts to the Russian Tsars from various countries of the West and the East, and the illustrious collection of Faberge Easter eggs.

Take your time to relax as we prepare something special as an option* for this evening. Head out for an unforgettable night at the opera or the Russian ballet at the iconic Bolshoi Theatre.

Day 3 Moscow: Panoramic tour, Metro and Tretyakov Gallery

Today, we explore Moscow further on a car tour of the city, giving you a sense of the city’s sheer size, and an impression of how Moscow has changed throughout the ages. Visit the starkly contrasting Theatre Square to see the stunning Bolshoi Theatre. Stroll along Tverskaya Street , the city’s main boulevard and home to the landmark Yeleseyevskiy Grocery Store , a former palace turned luxury providore.

We’ll also explore Boulevard Ring, where Russian nobles built their exquisite 18th and 19th-century mansions, and Kutuzoyskiy Avenue with its Triumphal Arch . Pass by the legendary Gorky Park and the White House before a stop at the architecturally stunning Novodevichy Convent , and the observation platform at Sparrow Hills , for a bird’s eye view over this staggering megalopolis.

Next, we visit the 19th century Tretyakov State Gallery , the world’s foremost depository of Russian fine art, containing over 130,000 exhibits, with work by Rublev, Kandinsky, Repin, and many others.

***The tour of Tretyakov Gallery can be changed to a tour of Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts upon request.

We will also explore the Moscow Metro . Opened in 1935, this striking feat of engineering is one of the largest and oldest underground railway systems in the world. Its grand stations are remarkably beautiful and have become tourist attractions in their own right. 

Day 4 St Petersburg city tour

In the morning, after breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the train station, where you board a fast train Sapsan , which will take you for a 4h journey to your next destination St Petersburg – also known as the cultural capital of Russia. On arrival to St Petersburg, you will be met by a driver and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

Your second half of the day starts with meeting your professional and friendly St. Petersburg guide in the lobby of your hotel to enjoy a walking city tour of St. Petersburg with picturesque stops in most popular places and by most spectacular sights.

At this time of year, the city is at its most beautiful. The streets are relaxed and uncrowded, the iconic Neva River becomes a wilderness of ice, and the city’s gilded monuments glow against a backdrop of the winter sky and bare trees covered in crystalline frost.

Stroll along the Nevsky Prospect - the main street of St. Petersburg, cross the Anichkov Bridge and admire the Anichkov Palace. Walk along the banks of Fontanka and Moika Rivers, stop at the Kazan Cathedral and St Isaac's Cathedral , visit the Palace Square and Senate Square with the Bronze Horseman monument to Peter the Great, walk inside of the Church on the Spilled Blood and be amazed by its architecture.

During the tour, you will also visit the Peter and Paul Fortress and its Cathedral - a burial place of Russian emperors from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family. 

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to enjoy the traditional Russian dance performance in Nikolaevsky Palace.

Day 5 St Petersburg: day trip to Pushkin and Pavlovsk

Experience the extravagance of the Imperial rulers on an excursion to the suburban estates of the Romanov Tsars. Tsarskoe Selo ( Tsar’s village ) is now part of the nearby town of Pushkin and is one of Saint Petersburg’s finest attractions. Amid exquisite parks and gardens, you’ll find the baroque Catherine Palace , a dazzling testament to Catherine’s love of luxury and royal excess.

Envision Catherine strolling with her beloved dogs through acres of private gardens, where remarkable structures like the Marble Bridge, the Dutch Admiralty and the Creaking Pagoda were constructed for her amusement. We also explore the stately neoclassical Alexander Palace, whose tumultuous history paints a fascinating portrait of the Romanov family and the replica of the world-renowned Amber Room .

You will also visit Pavlovsk Palace and Park , the summer palace of Emperor Paul I, commissioned by his mother Catherine the Great. The palace borders with a park of 600 hectares in area, which is one of the largest landscape parks in Europe.

If there’s one must-do in St Petersburg in winter, it’s a traditional troika ride! Perhaps the quintessential image of the Russian winter, a troika is a sled-like carriage drawn by three horses harnessed side-by-side. Be swept up in the magical winter scenery, passing beautiful wooded areas and meandering streams.

As an option* for this evening, we invite you to experience:

An evening of Russian classical music at one of St. Petersburg’s beautiful palaces. Take a seat in the magnificent Hall of the Palace, then, lose yourself in much-loved works by Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and others, played by one of the world-class orchestras of St Petersburg. Before the raising of the curtains, enjoy an interesting pre-concert tour of the palace's halls and a glass of sparkling wine.

Day 6 St Petersburg: The State Hermitage Museum

On our last day in St Petersburg, we pay a visit to its most lauded attraction. The State Hermitage Museum houses some 3 million masterpieces, spread across six magnificent historic buildings, including the splendid Winter Palace . Here you’ll feast your eyes on Rembrandts, Leonardos and Michelangelos, and get an up-close look at some of the world’s most important archaeological finds.

After lunch at a café in the Hermitage, you can seek to discover more of the museum at your own pace or head elsewhere.

As an option* for today, enjoy a tour (audio-guide) of the recently opened Faberge Museum , a private collection of over 4,000 Faberge Eggs and other bejewelled objects of desire, elegantly displayed inside the stunning Shuvalov Palace.    

In the evening, we transfer from to the Ladozhsky railway station for the train bound to Petrozavodsk – the capital of Karelia, a scenic mid-sized town built along a bay on vast Lake Onega.

Day 7 Karelia: Ruskeala Park and Kinerma village

Your local guide will meet you at the Petrozavodsk train station, for a tasty hot breakfast at one of the city cafes. After a short tour of Petrozavodsk , you will embark on a scenic, several-hour-journey to the Ruskeala Mountain Park . Unique for its waterfalls and varicoloured marble quarries, the quarry pits were once mined to provide building material for the royal palaces.

The park is now protected and one of the most spectacular natural sites in the Karelia region. Its most famous attraction is the 100m high, 450m wide Marble Canyon, which is filled with crystal clear water from underground springs. In winter, the canyon is illuminated with multi-coloured lights – a truly unforgettable scene.

The return journey will take us back to Petrozavodsk. En route, we will stop at Kinerma village , which in 2016 was named the most beautiful village in Russia. We’ll be met by a local resident for a personalised tour around the village, made up of late 19th century houses and a wooden chapel to the Virgin Mary erected in the 17th century. Afterwards, we’ll be invited to dinner in a traditional Karelian house.

Closer to evening, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Petrozavodsk.

Day 8 Karelia: Kizhi Island

Today we visit the Kizhi Island in the centre of Lake Onega. Getting here in winter requires a ride on a hovercraft. Only a small rural settlement remains on Kizhi, and the island has become an open-air museum with over 80 historical wooden structures, some dating to the 14th century.

After returning to Petrozavodsk, it’s time to get ready for our overnight train, which will take us above the Arctic Circle.

Day 9 Kola Peninsula: Murmansk city tour

We have now crossed the northern polar circle and at arrived in Murmansk, the northernmost city in Russia, with a population of around 300,000 people, by far the largest city above the Arctic Circle. An important Russian naval base, Murmansk served as a port for the Arctic convoys during WWII.

After hotel check-in and lunch, we embark on the Murmansk city sightseeing trip, and a tour of the world’s first nuclear icebreaker ship, Lenin .

Spend your free evening discovering the surprisingly vibrant nightlife in this quirky Russian outpost. With any luck, the Northern Lights will make an appearance, we will go hunt this beautiful phenomenon.

Day 10 Kola Peninsula: Saami village and husky dog sledding

Head to one of the largest Saami settlements in the Kola Peninsula, where many traditional dwellings are still in use. The settlement was built around important grazing land for the Saami’s precious reindeers, who are surprisingly affectionate and enjoy being stroked and fed by visitors. Also look out for wildlife in the surrounding countryside, including polar foxes, hares and hunting birds.

You’ll get the chance to learn about the ancient Saami culture and be invited to play traditional games, test your lasso throwing skills and reindeer sledding abilities, and maybe even try on some traditional Saami clothing. The locals will put on an authentic lunch spread including fish soup, berry pie and herbal tea, after which you’ll be given the opportunity to purchase handicrafts.

After lunch, we head to a Siberian husky farm . Here, you’ll learn the wonderful story behind the evolution of this iconic northern breed, and spend time getting to know the charming resident dogs here as well as their reindeer stablemates. Take an exhilarating sled ride through the starkly beautiful winter forests with the Husky team.

In the evening, we get back into the hotel where we’ll spend the remainder of the evening.

Day 11 Kola Peninsula: Snow village and snowmobiling at Khibiny Mountains

We start our day with the chance to carve it up on a snowmobile safari in the Khibiny Mountains , making our way down the valleys for a sensational view of the mountain ranges. This experience doesn’t require any special skills or physical abilities. After a safety brief, you will truly feel yourself “in the saddle” and will be able to enjoy the stunning winter landscapes and tranquillity of the mountains.

Next destination is the Snow Village , an ambitious tourism project that has been running since 2008. The Snow Village has been painstakingly constructed almost entirely out of ice and snow and features ornately decorated buildings, sculptures and labyrinthine tunnels with intricately patterned rooms, walls and corridors. This enchanting place is the work of true artists and a chance to open your imagination to the magical spirit of winter.

Day 12 Departure from Murmansk

After breakfast, it’s time to check out of our Murmansk hotel. You’ll be transferred to the airport to catch a flight back to either Moscow or on to your next destination.

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3* hotels in Moscow, St Petersburg, Petrozavodsk and Murmansk

Breakfasts in the hotels, some lunches (download the detailed itinerary for more information)

Airport and train station transfers

All transportation, according to the itinerary

Local licensed English-speaking tour guides in each region

Professional drivers

All excursions, including entry fees

1 night of Northern Lights hunt

Train tickets

Russian tourist visa support document

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. *Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service here .

Moscow to Murmansk

*Private tour, price is per person, based on min 2 people

Testimonials

Andrew Cherrett Australia

Everything was effortless and planned perfectly!

The hotels were great and the locations perfect! (the igloo hotel could do with some work, but the location made up for it). We tried lots of Russian food and restaurants, all were fantastic.

From our very first meeting your support & help has been amazing, I couldn’t ask for anything more & will recommend you to anyone thinking of visiting Russia. Additionally, the guides & drivers were fantastic, very helpful & perfect representation of Russia. Please pass this on to them & the companies.

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Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

Destination Specialists

Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

Bonded & Licensed

56th Parallel is a fully licensed, insured and accredited travel provider.

From USD $3,550

Day 1: Welcome to Moscow

Day 2: moscow: red square, kremlin and armoury chamber, day 3: moscow: panoramic tour, metro and tretyakov gallery, day 4: st petersburg city tour, day 5: st petersburg: day trip to pushkin and pavlovsk, day 6: st petersburg: the state hermitage museum, day 7: karelia: ruskeala park and kinerma village, day 8: karelia: kizhi island, day 9: kola peninsula: murmansk city tour, day 10: kola peninsula: saami village and husky dog sledding, day 11: kola peninsula: snow village and snowmobiling at khibiny mountains, day 12: departure from murmansk, not included, start planning your tour.

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