(from the Longmire area, via the Wonderland Trail)
Trail Description
Distance, round-trip: 13 miles Elevation gain: 2400 feet Hiking time, round-trip: 8 hours Wilderness camps: Yes The trail begins at Longmire and joins the Wonderland Trail approximately 0.1 mile above Longmire. In another 0.1 mile the trail crosses the Longmire/Paradise road and enters old growth forest and climbs somewhat steeply for 1.7 miles to the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. From there the trail descends to Kautz Creek which is crossed on a log bridge. Inquire about the status of this crossing since washouts are not infrequent. After about 1.3 miles, the trail reaches Pyramid Creek Camp. From there it ascends via a series of switchbacks, crosses Fishers Hornpipe Creek, and traverses along a ridge to Devils Dream Camp (5 miles from Longmire). The trail then rises gradually for another mile before reaching the Ranger Patrol Cabin in the meadows of Indian Henrys.
Along the Trail The lower reaches have marshy areas in the old growth forest along with streams along the trail. Kautz Creek is a spot often used for a lunch break by travelers, as is Pyramid Creek (just past the Pyramid Creek Camp). From Pyramid Creek to Devils Dream the trail is mainly in old growth forest. Just before Devils Dream Camp is a stream in a deep narrow canyon. This stream is commonly used as a water source for hikers and campers. Shortly after passing Devils Dream Camp the trail reaches the beautiful Squaw Lake area with small meadows providing partial views of Iron Mountain. From there the trail passes several small streams and meadows which open to the west. Shortly the trail reaches the many large meadows of Indian Henrys Hunting Ground. About ¼ mile beyond the Ranger Cabin is the way trail to Mirror Lake (0.7 mile) and the base of Pyramid Peak. From Indian Henrys, the Wonderland Trail descends to Tahoma Creek and the suspension bridge leading to Emerald Ridge and South Puyallup Camp. Indian Henrys is noted for its magnificent display of flowers which begins typically in mid-July and extend into late August. In September and October these meadows also have significant displays of fall colors. Trailhead Location The trailhead is located across the street from the museum and main parking area and is on the same side of the street as the Administration Building. Camp only in designated camp locations and observe wilderness regulations. Backpacking Permits are required for all overnight backcountry travel. Permits may be obtained from the Longmire Wilderness Information Center (or Longmire Museum in the winter) for camp locations and regulations for backcountry travel. Backpackers may camp at Pyramid Creek (2 individual sites; 3 miles from Longmire) or Devils Dream (7 individual sites, 1 group site; 5 miles from Longmire).
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