Mount Wow (Hard)

Join me for a climb to the summit of Mount Wow.

Distance: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,300 ft
Difficulty: Hard

This mountain follows the boundary trail along the edge of Mt. Rainier, and supposedly “wow” is what people say when they see the view from the summit. First you have to get there though, and that is not an easy task. This trail involves a lot of elevation gain and may require some travel on steep snow slopes. Excellent physical condition and winter hiking experience will be needed, but with excellent weather forecasted, the rewards should be worth it.

The snow conditions this year are unusual, and the snow depth is much below normal. There may or may not be snow at various places on the trail, and what snow there is may either be soft from the warm temperatures or solid ice depending on many factors. Please bring your mountaineering gear, just in case. Expect about 8 hours on the trail.

Gear:
Mountaineering boots
Ice Axe
Crampons
Helmet
Snowshoes
Microspikes
Hiking Poles
Everything else, such as food, water, and extra clothing.

Here is a nice trip report that details some of the key points:
https://www.mountaineers.org/activities/trip-reports/winter-scramble-mount-wow-3

We will most likely follow the winter route:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/ascent-of-mount-wow-on-2026-01-10-d16e1ee

The summer trail is here, in case the snow is melted:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/mount-wow-via-boundary-trail

This trip is weather and avalanche dependent. I will change the trail if conditions are not favorable.

Riders will reimburse their drivers $20 for gas. The trailhead is at the border of Mount Rainier National Park, so an America the Beautiful Pass will make things easier. Please bring a plastic bag for you boots for the trip home.

Important: I am not a guide and this is not a guided trip. You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.