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    Hikes/United States/Washington State/Mount Rainier National Park

    Knapsack Pass Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-2.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    396 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
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    Knapsack Pass is a 4.7 km hike in Mount Rainier National Park. This trail is no longer maintained, so you’ll need to bushwhack a little for your views. This hike leads you to a viewpoint just underneath Mother Mountain. Bring GPS or a map to complete this hike.

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    Route Description for Knapsack Pass Hike

    Knapsack Pass may not be maintained any longer, but it’s a pretty hike if you’re willing to take on a more natural trail. The hike begins from the end of the Mowich Lake Campground near the ranger cabin. Hike through the forest, passing over open rock slabs and scree in parts. The views of the valley are extensive here.

    A small fork appears about a half-mile from Mowich Lake. Stay left here. The pass is underneath Mother Mountain, and once you’re finished enjoying it, carefully retrace your steps.

    Getting to the Knapsack Pass Hike Trailhead

    To reach the trailhead for the Knapsack Pass hike, drive east from Carbonado on State Route 410 and make a right onto Mowich Lake Road (which is in poor condition, consider bringing a high-clearance vehicle). Drive 27.4 km to the end of the road, where the trailhead can be found at the far end of the campground.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      July-October

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Poor

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Knapsack Pass Hike Elevation Graph

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