Wonderland "ALT" Trail: 80 Miles Total Elevation Gain: 22,000
As of April 2025, there is no public access to Mowich Lake Campground. The 100+ year old Fairfax Bridge, which crosses the Carbon River provides the only public access to the zone, was deemed unsafe by the WA department of transportation. This closure is indefinite and likely to remain in place for several years with no estimated time frame for repair or replacement.
For a decade, Aspire has operated a circumnavigation of Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) in which runners complete the full Wonderland Trail over 3 days in 30 mile sections. Driving to Mowich Lake Campground is a critical component of this itinerary. Losing vehicle access to Mowich is a reminder of the privilege to access and recreate in wild spaces, but it doesn't dampen our love for this landscape and Mt. Rainier National Park. In lieu of the traditional Wonderland loop, we have developed a Wonderland “ALT” itinerary that goes deep into the beauty and grandeur of this wild landscape.
We look forward to this new season of opportunity to share and experience incredible trails, community, and the awe emanating from Tahoma, the Mother of Waters.
Course Overview
Day 1: Meet in Ashford WA
We meet runners at 5pm at Whittaker Mountaineering in Ashford WA. This is a great place to purchase or rent any last minute gear. Runners will drop vehicles and ride the Aspire Shuttle to White River Campground. Aspire serves and evening meal and we go over routes, risk management, and gear in preparation for the run.
Day 2: Northern Loop: 25 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +7,637/-7,684
Runners start their run from camp. 2 big climbs lay ahead, this section features towering old-growth forests, pristine alpine lakes, and big views await. As will all your gear and plenty of hot food, showers, and beer at White Rock Campground.
Day 3: White River to Cougar Rock, 28 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +7,299’ / -8,421’
The route begins with a steady climb through shady evergreens, eventually breaking into the open alpine of Summerland and Panhandle Gap—one of the highest and most scenic points on the entire trail. Here, wildflowers bloom in bursts of color, marmots sun themselves on rocky outcrops, and passing Reflection lake you are gifted with a downhill terrain.
Day 4: Wonderland trail to West Side Road, 26 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +7,069’ / -7,349’
Some how it’s possible for each day of this trip to get better. Starting from the main trail, this segment meanders through subalpine forests and lush river valleys before climbing into wild terrain. Once at the finish we have dinner and drinks. We celebrate, we congratulate, and eventually say our goodbyes.
Transportation
This trip begins and ends in Longmire WA. We meet runners in Ashford WA just outside of the park on Wednesday evening. We also provide a shuttle to and from SeaTac airport on Wednesday afternoon and Saturday evening, this shuttle is NOT included in the course fee. All those booking flights should plan to fly home on Sunday. Runners who drive personal vehicle leave their cars in the backpackers parking lot in Longmire WA.
Accommodations
Our basecamp will be at a different drive in campground each night. Aspire will provide lively camp amenities for a remote but comfortable “glamp” style experience. Runners will need to provide or rent a personal tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc.
Course Info Packet
For details about the trail, itinerary information, packing and gear lists, menu and dietary information, safety protocols, and trip policies please check out the Wonderland Course Packet available on our website: www.AspireAdventureRunning.com
Aspire Adventure Running
Aspire organizes single and multi-day running adventures in backcountry and wilderness terrain. We pair logistical and emergency support with delicious meals for a unique and memorable running experience. More info about our project is available at: www.AspireAdventureRunning.com
Custom Courses
Aspire Adventure Running holds a commercial use authorization with Mt. Rainier National Park to offer guided and supported trail running within the park. This permit give us flexibility in our course dates, but limits our group sizes. Contact us to design a supported run of the Wonderland Trail for you and your running group.
Event's current local time: 1:57 PM PT
