Activities

Backpacking

Included

Medically-trained, naturalist guides
All transportation in passenger van
Camping fees & backpacking permits
Tent, sleeping pad, and group camping equipment
All meals indicated in itinerary
Park entry fees

Weather

Our journey will take us through varied terrain and elevation. Expect daytime temperatures mainly in the 60s-70s, possibly reaching into the 80s. Evenings are cool and may drop as low as the 40s or even 30s this time of year, depending on elevation. Rain and wind is common this time of year, so be prepared for varied conditions!

Group 

All public trips are 18+. Please make sure to review the Intensity section for information about what to expect on your trip!

Intensity – Moderate to Advanced

Hiking days will usually include about 8+ total hours on the trail, covering anywhere from 8-10 miles on the day with weight and about 2,000+ feet of elevation gain daily. This trip includes four days of backcountry hiking, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable being active for most of the day, multiple days in a row. Some hiking experience is recommended. Backpacking experience is preferred, not required.

Accommodations

• One night frontcountry camp at White River or Cougar Rock Campground
• Three nights backcountry camp

Day 1

Arrive in Seattle by late morning and meet your group for a transfer to Mount Rainier National Park. We’ll settle into our frontcountry site and will take an afternoon hike to stretch our legs. Tonight, we’ll get to know one another at camp while we review our route and check our gear.

Meals: D

Day 2

We’ll set off early today, departing the stunning area of Sunrise and climbing up, up, up. Our goal today is Mystic camp, located next to a peaceful and serene alpine lake. And we’ll certainly earn it! We’ll gain and lose elevation as we head into the wilderness and will arrive just in time to eat a hearty dinner and collapse into bed.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3

Today is a more mild day compared to our first. We can enjoy a leisurely breakfast and morning at the lake before setting off for our next camp. Our day includes 5 miles with modest elevation gain and lots of elevation loss. Tonight, we’ll camp along the Carbon River and will rest up for our biggest day tomorrow.

Meals: B, L, D

• Required Gear
  • Backpack (45-60 L recommended)
  • Duffel or suitcase (to be left in the vehicle when backpacking, 1 small suitcase or duffel per person)
  • Sleeping bag (also available to rent), rated to 20 degrees or below
  • Pack cover
  • Headlamp
  • Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
• Recommended Gear and personal items 
  • • Hiking poles
    • Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
    • Camping pillow
    • Sunscreen
    • Earplugs
    • Insect repellent
    • Toiletries (please choose biodegradable and scent-free items)
    • Small, personal first aid kit (including blister treatment)
    • Small, quick dry towel
    • Personal plate, mug, and utensils (your guide will have these items if you don’t have your own)