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Intro to Backpacking Field Trip - Panhandle Gap

Field trip: Introduction to Backpacking

Intro to Backpacking Field Trip - Panhandle Gap

Preference to Tacoma Branch Introduction to Backpacking Students. Trip will open to all Mountaineers based on availability on April 28. ***Dates are projected and subject permit availability. Hike through dark forest to flower-filled alpine meadows to Summerland, set-up camp and then on to Panhandle Gap on the Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park. Enjoy views of Goat Mountain, Fryingpan Glacier, Little Tahoma and Mount Rainier.

Contacts

Lisa Elliott
Lisa Elliott
Primary Leader
  • Strenuous
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 12.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,000 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 mph

Please read gear list before asking permission.

Day 1 Hike to Summerland, set-up camp. Explore surrounding area. Cook meal together, enjoy evening time at your leisure.

Day 2 Early wake up, Optional: explore Panhandle Gap area (micro spikes required), break camp and return to trailhead, late afternoon. 

Preference to Tacoma Branch Introduction to Backpacking Students.
Trip will open to all Mountaineers based on availability on April 28.

TBD based on what works for participants. 

**Carpool options

***Permit Fee: Each Participant will be asked to pay an additional $15 to cover their cost for the permit.

Route/Place

Summerland & Panhandle Gap

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

To be discussed at lecture for Introduction to Backpacking course students.

The Ten Essentials plus overnight gear which may include:

  • Tent with footprint/ground tarp

  • Stove and fuel

  • Sleeping bag

  • Sleeping pad

  • Water filter

  • Cooking pot/pan with plate and utensils

  • Toilet paper and shovel or blue bag to deal with waste

  • Micro spikes
Trip Reports