Ipsut Pass from Mowich Lake

This is a 2.8-mile out-and-back on the Wonderland Trail, from Mowich Lake to Ipsut Pass and back. The path rises a few hundred feet through forest to a notch in the ridge; allow about 1 to 1.5 hours. It suits you if you want a brief pass walk without taking on the much longer Wonderland route toward Carbon River. Published mileage varies: the route line is about 1.3 miles to the pass, while one guide gives 1.6 miles to the nearby Eunice Lake–Tolmie Peak junction. Treat 2.8 miles as an estimate and follow the trail to the pass itself.

From the campground area, the trail crosses the lake’s outlet and follows the western shore before climbing through old-growth forest. The lakeside stretches open to glimpses of Fay and Castle Peaks and Mount Rainier across the water. The climb is fairly modest, but this is still a real trail with a steady uphill approach rather than a level lakeshore stroll.

Ipsut Pass is a clear notch where the route crosses the ridge. The Wonderland Trail continues north from here in steep switchbacks toward the Carbon River; that descent is outside this short out-and-back, so turn around at the pass. A side route near the pass heads toward Eunice Lake and Tolmie Peak. It is a separate outing, not part of this mapped route.

Mowich Lake is the largest and deepest lake in Mount Rainier National Park, set in a glacial basin ringed by sensitive subalpine meadows. Keep to the path and leave the flowers alone. A seasonal toilet is listed at the lake; food service and potable water were not identified in the information checked.

Start from the Mowich Lake parking area at the end of Mowich Lake Road, then follow the lake and campground access to the Wonderland Trail. The road is normally open to vehicles in summer, typically from mid-July to mid-October; check park conditions before driving out. Pets are not allowed on park trails.