An all encompassing endurance journey around Tahoma, the Mother of Waters, the crown of Cascadia’s volcanos.
Stage: 80 Miles, 4 Days
As of April 2025, there is no public access to Mowich Lake Campground. The 100+ year old Fairfax Bridge, which crosses the Carbon River provides the only public access to the zone, was deemed unsafe by the WA department of transportation. This closure is indefinite and likely to remain in place for several years with no estimated time frame for repair or replacement.
For a decade, Aspire has operated a circumnavigation of Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) in which runners complete the full Wonderland Trail over 3 days in 30 mile sections. Driving to Mowich Lake Campground is a critical component of this itinerary. Losing vehicle access to Mowich is a reminder of the privilege to access and recreate in wild spaces, but it doesn’t dampen our love for this landscape and Mt. Rainier National Park. In lieu of the traditional Wonderland loop, we have developed a Wonderland “ALT” itinerary that goes deep into the beauty and grandeur of this wild landscape.
We look forward to this new season of opportunity to share and experience incredible trails, community, and the awe emanating from Tahoma, the Mother of Waters.
This stage trip is a GREAT fit for goal oriented runners who are excited for multiple days of high mileage and BIG elevation gain in rugged terrain.
WL “Alt” Route Summary, Map, GPX: Wonderland ALT Caltopo
| Run day | Location | Miles | Elevation Gain | Elevation Loss | Travel Time |
| 1 | Mystic Burroughs Out-n-Back | 26 | 7,600+’ | 7,600-‘ | 8-10 hours |
| 2 | White River to Cougar | 28 | 7,300+’ | 8,500-‘ | 8-10 hours |
| 3 | Cougar to West Side Road | 26 | 7,000+’ | 7,300-‘ | 8-10 hours |
| Total | 80 | 22,000+’ | 23,500′ | 24-30 hours |
ASPIRE unlocks the all logistical bairriers to complete the wonderland Trail. Including Aiport pickups, a moving basecamp, delcious meals, and guide staff supporting all the trail miles.
Get the detailed itinerary, maps, .gpx files, route descriptions & more in the course packet:
2025 TRIP DATES:
JULY 23RD-26TH
JULY 30TH-AUGUST 2ND
AUGUST 6TH-9TH
AUGUST 13TH-16TH
AUGUST 20TH-23RD
AUGUST 27TH-30TH
"I've always wanted to run the Wonderland trail but never could figure out the logistics on my own. Aspire was the perfect blend of camp support, trail support when you needed it, and a let-you-run-free attitude without overbearing oversight. Absolutely loved this excursion and would highly recommend to anyone looking for a reasonable challenge, beautiful sights, and a sense of adventure."
Paul, Seattle WA
DAY ONE ITINERARY
1:00pm
SeaTac Airport Shuttle
4:30pm
Trip Meet up in Ashford WA
6:00pm
Dinner and Orientation at White River Campground, Mt. Rainier National Park
DAY TWO / Run 1
6:00am
Coffee and Breakfast
7:00am
Run: Mystic Lake Out-n-Back
6:00pm
Dinner and Orientation at White River Campground, Mt. Rainier National Park
DAY THREE / Run 2
6:00am
Coffee and Breakfast
7:00am
Run Wonderland Trail to Cougar Rock Campground
6:00pm
Dinner and next day overview
DAY FOUR / Run 3
6:00am
Coffee and Breakfast
7:00am
Run Wonderland Trail to Westside Road
6:00pm
Celebratory Finish
7:00pm
Aspire Shuttle Departs for SeaTac
FAQs
Trip Capacity
12 Runners
Accommodations
Front Country Camping. Limited Cell Service. Vault Toilets. Aspire Glamp Style Basecamp
Menu and Diet
Seasonally Inspired Camp Cooked Dinners and Breakfasts catering to ALL dietary needs and preferences. Trail snacks, electrolytes, and packable lunch items provided. Runners responsible for their personal favorite active nutrition. Aspire Menu
Pace
Hike the ups, shuffle the flats, run the downs. Runners average between 3-5 MPH including photo and snack stops. How Fast For an Aspire Trip?
Training Requirements
Completion of 50k Distance with 10,000+ feet of elevation gain within 30 days of the trip. Training for the Wonderland Trail
Route Variations
Day #1 Northern Loop, 36 Miles.Day #2 Short Stop at Box Canyon, 19 Miles. “Zero” Day with light hikes and casual running. Wonderland Trail Variations Explained
Risk Management
Runners travel independently using GPX and paper maps for navigation. Guides on trail in case of emergency. Aspire Safety Sandwich.
Gear and Equipment
Personal Running Kit, tent, sleeping bag, and pad. Camping gear is available to rent from Aspire. Pack Like a Pro For the Wonderland Trail.
Ride Alongs
Limited space available for friends and family to share in camp meals and festivities. Friends and Family Camping with Aspire.
Travel Planning
Trip Start/Finish is at Mt. Rainier National Park. Aspire operates a trip specific optional shuttle to/from the SeaTac Airport.
Post Booking Communication
Detailed packing lists, travel planning, and itinerary information available to registered runners via our “Runner 1 Sheet”. Prior to trip runners report on medical history, training preparation, backcountry experience, and dietary info.
Trip Insurance and Cancellation Policy
Course Fees are NON REFUNDABLE. We encourage all of our runners to purchase 3rd Party Trip Insurance. Cancellation Policy. How Trip Insurance Protects Your Financial Investment in Adventure Travel.
Cascadia's crown jewel awaits!
Here's how Aspire unlock's Mount Rainier National Park:
Aspire coordinates all camping reservations, backcountry permits, shuttles and meals to guarantee you an immersive trail running experience. All you have to bring is your running kit and your fitness.
View all the ways we support your adventure.
Get the course packet:
Cost
Early Bird Registration: $1,750
Ends January 31st
Regular Registration: $1,850
Ends April 30th
Late Registration: $1,950
Registration Closes 2 Weeks Prior to each Trip Start Date
*Payment plans are available for every trip. Get the info on how to set one up today.