another wonderland question

“Trying to plan a trip to Rainier for '03 and I'm running into folks saying that you can make reservations and others who saying it is completely first come first serve. I'm begining to believe that within the last few years you could reserve campsites, but now its first come first serve.”

“Are you talking about a car camping spot? I believe it is first come first serve after Labor Day weekend (I was there the weekend after and got a space, no problem).

If you're talking about reservations to hike the Wonderland Trail, you always need a backcountry reservation for that if you are planning on backpacking (that would be defined as staying overnight, in the backcountry).”

“What kind of campsite are you talking about?”

“I think those permits are kind of hard to get - unless you're a doctor i suppose”

“My plans are to take a wonderland through hike (all 93 miles) and stay at the trailside camps. At MRNP free permits are upon arrival for either cross country camping (this has got to be way cool) or trailside camping along the wonderland. However, backcountry camps are extremely popular and the limited slots fill quickly. So my question is can I get a reservation a several months ahead that will guarantee us that we can begin hiking the day our arriving flight? Or are pre-trip reservations only available for car campers.”

“You MUST apply for a permit and choose sites.

Do it as soon as regulations allow.

There are only so many hikers allowed at any given time.

I hiked it this past July 19-29.
It seemed like a good time to go.
The bugs might be worse in August???

Make reservations as soon as is possible......I already said that.

Train hard.......
Steps
Hills

The descents are murderous if you're not prepared and tough if you are.

Don't let anyone tell you that it is just a stroll around a mountain.
22,000 feet up
22,000 feet down

After Mowich Lake going east there are two ways to go.
The Spray Park route is outta sight.....high and rocky and snow fields and you can see forever.”

“If you go to the park website
http://www.mount.rainier.national-park.com/camping.htm#bc

you'll find back country permits are first come first served and are issued the morning of your trip.

(Sorry, I can't do links.)”