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Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail

Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail

Highlight • River

Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail

Name: Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail
Rating: 2

Recommended by 3 hikers

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Mount Rainier Wilderness

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Location: Pierce County, Washington, United States

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Best Hikes to Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail

4.9

(10)

125

hikers

1. Carter Falls – Cougar Rock Campground loop from Packwood

4.20km

01:17

150m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.7

(3)

hikers

2. Longmire Historic District – Carter Falls loop from Packwood

9.39km

02:47

260m

Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Intermediate

5.0

(2)

hikers

3. Longmire Historic District – Narada Falls loop from Packwood

14.7km

04:37

550m

Intermediate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Intermediate

Tips

Jamie S.

May 22, 2025

The Nisqually River crossing on the Wonderland Trail is a memorable and dynamic section, located near the southern side of Mount Rainier, typically between Maple Creek Camp and Paradise River Camp. The river itself is one of Rainier’s largest and most powerful, fed directly by the Nisqually Glacier high on the mountain’s southern face. The riverbed is wide and braided, with silt-heavy water often roaring through multiple channels.

The crossing is usually made via a sturdy log or footbridge, though the exact setup can change from year to year depending on flooding, glacial melt, or storm damage—always check current conditions before your hike. The approach to the river offers expansive views up the wide, rocky riverbed toward the glacier, with Rainier looming behind, framed by shifting clouds or alpenglow in the right light.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 930 m

Weather

Monday 10 November

8°C

0°C

87 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h

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See hikes here

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Location: Pierce County, Washington, United States

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Nisqually River Crossing on the Wonderland Trail

1. Carter Falls – Cougar Rock Campground loop from Packwood

2. Longmire Historic District – Carter Falls loop from Packwood

3. Longmire Historic District – Narada Falls loop from Packwood

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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