I took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather and backpacked the Northern Loop at Mount Rainier from Sept 30-Oct 2. I tried my luck at a walk up permit at White River WIC. I had never tried for a walk up permit, but I figured being the end of the season and most WA hikers have larch fever that my chances were good. The Ranger told me I was the 3rd person today for Northern loop permits (it was 8:30 am) and I got the camps I was hoping for.
Itinerary:
Day 1 - Sunrise to Lake James Camp
Day 2- Lake James Camp to Mystic Camp
Day 3 - Mystic Camp to Sunrise
I parked at Sunrise parking lot where the views began. Plenty of parking spaces to choose from and the toilets were open (sunrise visitor center+ store were closed for the season) Crowds disappeared once I left the turn off for Fremont Lookout. Trail was beautifully maintained with plenty of signage. All bridges were in. Made it camp by 4:30 and was the first out of the two other groups to arrive. Nice shaded camps to choose from with a short walk to the water source (stream further down the trail). The Bear Pole was taken down at James camp for the season. I brought my bear can since trees in the PNW can be tricky to hang and I am glad I did.
Day 2 - The day started with switchbacks up to Windy Pass. Absolutely gorgeous views and fall colors. I really took my time up here and I’m glad I did. This part of the park I had never been to and it was really beautiful. I stopped at Yellowstone camp for a quick break before heading down. I heard the camps were some of the best in the park. Small stream near camp to fill up on (didn't fill up and filter at the ponds I past by) Lots of ups and downs today. Rest and water breaks were essential. Made it Mystic camp around 4ish. Once I set up camp I went back to Mystic Lake to enjoy dinner with a view. This was one of my favorite spots when I hiked the Wonderland trail. Also worth checking out the ranger cabin for excellent views of Rainier
Day 3More great views of Rainier. I took the side trail up to Skyscraper Mtn. Lovely views with only a little haze from forest fires. I would recommend taking the little side trip if you are up for it. When I did the Wonderland trail 4 years ago I passed on it wanting to save my energy for the rest of the trail. Glad I made time to finally check it out.
This was yet another great backpack with unseasonably warm weather, fall colors, and challenging terrain with plenty of elevation gain and loss. You know it's a good backpack when you want it to last longer.
If you are interested in a vlog style trip report. I have the video linked below:
https://youtu.be/reHD5OzJNRs
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