![20180712_093504_HDR[1]](https://i0.wp.com/wallamas.com/wp-content/uploads/slider/cache/44b227ab91fd21a6ead3135917206f2d/20180712_093504_hdr1.jpg?resize=120%2C80&ssl=1)
$1995+tax/Adult, non-wilderness
July 29 – August 1, 2024
This trail is steep and strenuous for everybody, but truly photogenic enough to be worth the effort.
We start at the Dark Meadow trailhead and follow that trail for 4 miles as it becomes quite steep, with 1800 ft of elevation gain. After the intersection with Juniper Ridge trail we follow the trail west for a mile to Dark Meadow. Day 2 features a 4 mile hike with 1200 ft of fairly steep elevation gain to a stunning vista that features Mt Adams, Mt Rainier, Mt Hood and Mt St Helens. The second and third nights are usually spent here.
Options for the layover on day 3 include dawn at Sunrise peak (for early risers) or day hiking in the vicinity of Jumbo Peak. Day 4 features a 7-mile hike back to the trailhead with 3000 ft of elevation drop. “Strenuous” for sure.
Mountain goat and elk frequent the area, and we sometimes see bear, deer or grouse. There may be some wild strawberry picking in early August.
These trails are open to hikers, bicycles, horses and motorcycles. There is occasional motorcycle traffic, but expert riders only due to the difficulty of the trail.
Trip Logistics
Meet up at the trailhead at 10 am to review safety concerns and Leave No Trace principles. A Forest Pass is not required at this trailhead.
Lunch is provided on the first day and the last day, as well as meals and snacks in between.
Llamas aren’t very tolerant of hot weather, so if it’s hot, we’ll start early, with breakfast served at either 6 or 7 a.m. Extra coffee will be provided!
Specific Hazards
- Steep trail in places
- Motorcycles on the trail occasionally
- Steep, rocky ground by 2nd camp
Food
We strive to provide exceptional meals in the backcountry and are happy to customize the menu for your group. Pescatarian, and dairy-free are easily accommodated. Vegan and gluten-free are available individually through commercial dried dinners with fresh additives that we will bring. All dietary requests must be made at least 2 weeks before the trip.
- For dinners, expect fresh meats and fish, steamed vegetables, salad, fresh bread and dessert baked in Dutch ovens when fire danger is low.
- Lunches for the first 3 days typically include wraps with fresh meats and cheese as well as fresh fruit. Day 4 will be wraps with nut butters and dried fruit. Snacks include a selection of energy bars or similar items.
- Breakfasts on travel days include hot coffee, tea, and instant oatmeal selection. A nice breakfast is standard fare on layover days, sometimes with fresh coffee cake if fire danger allows.
What to Bring
The llamas carry 30 lbs of personal gear per person, including the provided tent and sleeping pad (4 to 6 lbs). If your gear exceeds 30 lbs, you’ll need to carry the excess. We recommend avoiding this so you can enjoy the treat of backcountry travel with just a light day pack containing snacks, raingear, and anything else you may need while hiking. Feel free to call us before the trip to help you pare down.
- Day pack
- Rain gear
- Sleeping bag (available to rent for $22)
- Warm clothes
- Hat
- Trekking poles
- Light shoes to wear in camp
- Flashlight
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Medications
