Scored a timed entry reservation for 7-9 am and arrived at the trailhead at about 8. All parking was full but there were a couple of spots along the road on the side where the trail begins so we snagged one of those.
The trail was delightfully empty for the most part. We saw one other couple pass us on the way up. Then a ranger and a couple solo hikers on their way down. Once we got to the meadow we started seeing more groups.
This is one of my all time favorite hikes and if timed entry is what it takes for it to not be completely overrun, I’m now a fan.
Had snacks at Summerland camp and spotted a bear also snacking near the group site that moved along down the hill pretty quickly without seeming very bothered. Marmots from afar.
Lots of wildflowers blooming right now including avalanche lilies, paintbrush, columbine, lupines and more. Beautiful day to take it all in.
Trip Report
Summerland - Panhandle Gap — Saturday, Jul. 19, 2025
Mount Rainier Area > NE - Sunrise/White River
Type of Hike
Day hikeTrail Conditions
Trail in good conditionRoad
Road suitable for all vehiclesBugs
Bugs were not too badSnow
Snow free
Comments
BeaverDawg on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
Thank you for reporting. Looks like a wonderful day with a bear to boot! How were the mosquitos?
Posted by:
BeaverDawg on Jul 20, 2025 08:39 AM
shawnoq on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
We got bitten a couple of times on the way down, but definitely not bad at all. Had bug spray on at the beginning of the hike and didn’t re-apply.
Posted by:
shawnoq on Jul 20, 2025 01:46 PM
LilyT23 on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
Did you go beyond the Summerland camp? How’s the snow condition on the trail between Summerland and Indian Bar?
Posted by:
LilyT23 on Jul 20, 2025 11:24 PM
shawnoq on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
We didn't go beyond Summerland camp but we saw tons of people going up and coming back from that direction without special equipment. The trail conditions on the park website say there's still snow needing expert navigation skills at Indian Bar as of 7/11: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/trails-and-backcountry-camp-conditions.htm
Posted by:
shawnoq on Jul 21, 2025 07:37 AM
marisao on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
Did you happen to notice if there were bear poles or bear cans at Summerland Camp? Staying there on Wednesday and would love to not hike in a bear canister if it's not needed! Thanks for any intel you can provide!
Posted by:
marisao on Jul 21, 2025 02:13 PM
shawnoq on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
All backcountry camps have bear poles during the summer. While I didn't go witness one myself, I'm fairly confident there is at least one at Summerland. I'm jealous! Have fun and be safe.
Posted by:
shawnoq on Jul 21, 2025 02:39 PM
marisao on Summerland - Panhandle Gap
Thank you! Checking the permit site everyday paid off! Just called the ranger station and they confirmed that there's a bear pole.
Posted by:
marisao on Jul 21, 2025 02:43 PM