High Lakes Loop (winter)

Trip

Basic Snowshoe - High Lakes Loop (winter)

Winter camping near Faraway Rock. We'll snowshoe from Narada Falls to Faraway Rock, set up camp, explore the area as time/conditions allow, and return to Narada Falls the next day. Participants must have previous winter camping experience.

  • Sat, Jan 7, 2023 — Sun, Jan 8, 2023
  • Tacoma Snowshoeing Committee
  • Snowshoeing
  • Basic
  • Adults
  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 10.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,500 ft

Longmire parking lot at 9:00am on Saturday, Jan 7th.

We'll start with a 2.5 mile, 900' gain snowshoe from the Narada Falls trailhead to Faraway Rock. We'll set up camp, explore the Faraway Rock / Mazama Ridge area as time/conditions allow (day hike of approx 4.2 miles, 1000' gain), and enjoy a night of winter camping.  The next day, we'll make our way back to the Narada Falls trailhead, stopping at Reflection Lakes along the way (3.2 miles, 600' gain).

Map (TH to camp): Narada Falls to Faraway Rock
Map (day hike): Faraway Rock up to Mazama Ridge
Map (camp to TH): Faraway Rock to Reflection Lakes and then Narada Falls

We'll trek at a moderate pace with brief stops for snacks/views. Participants should have a good fitness base, given the weight of winter camping equipment as well as the trip's distance and elevation gain.

Participants must have previous winter camping experience.

Weather forecast: National Weather Service

As this is a winter overnight, participants should be prepared for varied weather conditions and must bring winter-capable shelter and sleep system, cooking / water treatment systems, and clothing.

Chains need to be carried in all cars. Those driving front or rear wheel drive vehicles may be required to install chains before proceeding up to Narada Falls.

Park entrance fee or America The Beautiful pass will be required for all drivers.

Route/Place

High Lakes Loop (winter)



  • USGS Mt Rainier East

    Green Trails Mt Rainier East No. 270

    Green Trails Paradise No. 270S

    Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX
  • See full route/place details.
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

  • The Ten Essentials
  • Snowshoes
  • Poles
  • Winter-capable shelter and sleep system
  • Winter-capable cooking / water treatment systems
  • Winter-capable clothing
Trip Reports