Wonderland

Ian — does this apply to all Rainier permits? i.e. say I just want to do a two-night trip on Rainer, which would probably involve some of Wonderland, but not the whole loop, should I put in for that now?

If you want to hike a section of the Wonderland or the Norhtern Loop, even if it's just a section of it, then I'd put in for it now. I'm not familiar with the other parts of the park to say.

I've had a lot of success with walk up permits so I don't think its the end of the world if I don't get the permit, but it's tough to get some of the prettier sites like Indian Bar and Summerland without a reservation as they fill up quick.

"Ian — does this apply to all Rainier permits? i.e. say I just want to do a two-night trip on Rainer, which would probably involve some of Wonderland, but not the whole loop, should I put in for that now?"

Yes.

yeah, I — or rather my family– needs to know what I'm doing before i set out.

Would you recommend Indian Bar and Summerland as an "intro to Rainer" trip? Or something else?

Both if you can swing it. Thats a real pretty section of the trail and plenty of opportunities to watch mountain goats and side hikes.

I'm no expert on Rainier. But I have enjoyed Hiking the Wonderland Trail by Tami Asars.
In addition to the Woderland Trail she covers the Northern Loop and the East Side Loop.

Falcon Guide, Hiking Mount Rainier National Park by Heidi Schneider and Mary Skjelset offers a nice selection of day hikes and 2 or 3 day hikes.

Billy

Just faxed in mine.

Any lucky permit holders? Record applications this year. So many they're not accepting any more. I submitted mine the third week of March, but haven't heard a word.

I got the "Sorry Letter" last week.

billy

Check your credit card web site for a charge. That should appear before a confirmation letter, if you are successful.

billy