Camp Muir Hike

Route Description for Camp Muir Hike

The Camp Muir hike is a defining route for many hikers, representing the upper limit of what can be reached without true mountaineering skills. The views are simply sublime, and you can’t possibly leave this trail without feeling like you earned those views with grit and determination. The scenery is unmatched by other day hikes in the park and you’ll feel like a real alpine adventurer from Camp Muir.

Now, this trail represents a serious undertaking and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Most of the trail is snowbound well into August, making navigation a challenge and proper equipment (GPS, compass, crampons, poles) essential. Additionally, the melting snow can make descending hazardous and disorienting. While many hikers glissade down the snow, this still poses a risk and should be avoided unless you know how to self-arrest. The weather can be extremely unpredictable, so come prepared with suitable layers of clothing.

The Camp Muir hike begins from the Paradise parking lot. Take the Skyline Trail from the stairs behind the visitor center. The trail is often snowed in from the start, but if you’re visiting in hot weather, you may spend the first two miles hiking through subalpine meadows over paved or rocky trail.

Not long after a hairpin turn, you’ll turn left and follow a creek, where the way to Camp Muir is signed. At about the two-mile mark, cross through a gully (your last source of water on the hike).

You’ll soon reach the Muir Snowfield, where the trail becomes steep and stays that way until the summit. As you grind through the snow, take some time to enjoy the views of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Tatoosh Ridge that begin to unveil themselves.

At about 2,438 m, the trail evens out slightly, but only briefly. 305 m feet later, you’ll be able to make out Camp Muir in the distance. Although it seems close at this point, many hikers report that these last 76 m vertical feet feel never-ending. The air is noticeably thinner at this point, so take your time as you push through this extremely challenging portion of the trail.

Upon reaching the camp, soak up the views of the Cowlitz Glacier, the Gibraltar Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Little Tahoma. Climbers bound for the summit will likely be camping here.

The descent is often one of the most dangerous parts of this hike. Depending on the conditions, the snow can either be slick and slippery or hard-packed and icy. If visibility is poor, it can be easy to wander off-track. We recommend paying close attention to your GPS and remaining well in control of your body as you navigate the slush and snow. Resist the urge to follow the slope of the hill, as it leads to the dangerously crevassed Nisqually Glacier.

Having hiked halfway up the tallest mountain in Washington, revel in your accomplishment as you descend the snow back to Paradise.

Insider Hints for Camp Muir Hike

• Some hikers glissade down from the summit on trash bags. Use extreme caution if you choose to do this, and come prepared with an ice axe and the ability to self-arrest.
• Prioritize sun protection on the snowfield, as reflected rays can quickly burn your skin. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are important on this trail.
• Poles are essential for this trail, and microspikes or crampons can be massively helpful.
• Hikers from low elevations should allow themselves to acclimatize before attempting this trail due to the high camp elevation.
• The descent can be disorienting in solid snow. Bring a GPS or compass to stay on track.
• This hike is a taste of true alpine experience in a day hike. Come prepared with lots of layers and the right gear, more water than you expect to need, and food. This is not a suitable hike for beginner or intermediate adventurers.
• There is no toilet paper at Camp Muir. Bring a roll if you plan to use the facilities.