Mount Rainier National Park: Tolmie Peak

INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping-and-hiking.htm.

PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations requests accepted by fax or mail, starting on March 15th of each year ($20/reservation). Download form at nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/wilderness-reservation-information.htm.

CONTACT Mt. Rainier National Park, (360) 569-2211; nps.gov/mora

Trail Facts

• Distance: 9.8

Waypoints

TOL001

Location: 46.932941, -121.864098

Head N on the Wonderland Trail around L shore of Mowich Lake

TOL002

Location: 46.934349, -121.865997

Veer R to flank the alpine water; muddy shores are crowded with alpine firs and plentiful huckleberry bushes

TOL003

Location: 46.940937, -121.864563

Ascend timbered ridge as the trail veers L from lake into foggy forests

TOL004

Location: 46.950359, -121.867996

Ipsut Pass: Turn L @ Y onto Tolmie Peak Trail

TOL005

Location: 46.951241, -121.8722

Dramatic chalky white cliffs rise 100 ft. On rainy days, the walls are streaked with waterfalls

TOL006

Location: 46.952141, -121.876602

Turn L, follow drumming sound to gully stream bathed in blooms; upstream, a lovely cascade pours off the canyon lip from Eunice Lake

TOL007

Location: 46.952648, -121.876999

Tip: The upturned branches of mountain hemlocks offer little rain protection. Best to rest under silver and noble firs, or Western white pines

TOL008

Location: 46.954159, -121.875702

Turn L @ Y; igneous columns crumble below Tolmie Peak

TOL009

Location: 46.9547, -121.876297

Circle S side of Lake Eunice; Rainier profile reflects in glassy waters. Climb arduous switchbacks

TOL010

Location: 46.9576, -121.880898

Tolmie Peak (5,939 ft.): On sunny days, bask in 360° views to Mts. St. Helens and Rainier; backtrack to car