Wahpenayo Peak is located in the Tatoosh range along the southern boundary of Mt. Rainier National Park in Washington State. Another prominent named peak in the Tatoosh Traverse, Wahpenayo lies just southeast of Eagle Peak and Chutla Peak -- and just to the southwest of Lane Peak. Wahpenayo's summit commands great 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and Mt. Rainier across the valley to the north. This peak likely receives far fewer visitors than Eagle & Chutla. The easiest approach is via the trail up from Longmire and then following a user trail up the west ridge. Two easy false summits near the top make things interesting -- some easy class 3-4 scrambling. There may be other approaches as well.

This peak could be combined with Eagle & Chutla or other peaks along the Traverse for a full day outing. Some of Wahpenayo's other satellite peaks might also make for some interesting exploring.

Getting There

From the Nisqually (southwest) entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park, follow the road ~7mi to Longmire. Turn right at the entrance near the Longmire Wilderness Information Center and drive through the housing area for the park employees, crossing a narrow one-lane suspension bridge over the Nisqually River. The trail starts on the left/east side of the road, a short distance past the bridge. Alternately you can park at the Wilderness Info Center and hike in.

Red Tape

A fee must be paid on entering Mt. Rainier National Park.

When To Climb

Wahpenayo Peak is probably best done in late-spring/summer/fall - although it can probably be climbed all year 'round. The steep parts along the approach (e.g. the Chutla-Wahpenayo saddle and approach along Wahpenayo's west ridge) might possibly be easier if snow-covered. There is likely some avalanche hazard on Wahpenayo and below Chutla's cliffs in winter. The road to Longmire is usually open during the winter.

Camping

There is camping permitted within the park. The closest car-campground is at Sunshine Point just inside the Nisqually Entrance. A backcountry permit (available at the Wilderness Information Center in Longmire) is required for camping up on/near Wahpenayo Peak. There are some flat open areas just north-northwest of Wahpenayo where camping would be possible -- although water may be an issue.

Mountain Conditions

Mt. Rainier Trail Conditions
This site posts the current trail conditions for the Mt. Rainier area -- the status of the Eagle Peak trail can give you a good idea of what to expect at least on the first part of the approach.

Paradise WebCam
Mt. Rainier Paradise webcam. On a good day, Eagle Peak is visible left-center -- this can give a good approximation of conditions in the area.

Mt. Rainier Recreational Forecast

Images



[ View Gallery - 7 More Images ]