Top 10 Huts and Cabins in Pierce County

Unfortunately only a short round possible, but breathtaking area

Indian Bar Camp sits in a wide alpine basin with clear views of Rainier’s east face and a glacial river running through the valley. There’s a composting toilet and nearby water (always filter it). It's a good overnight option and even if you’re not camping, it’s a good place to take a short break. The footbridge offers a clear look at the waterfall and surrounding terrain.

Sunrise Camp is a high-elevation backcountry site just below the Sunrise area, with wide alpine views and a quieter feel despite its proximity to one of the park’s busiest hubs. It’s a solid overnight spot or pause point for runners, with seasonal water, a composting toilet, and quick access to the Sunrise Visitor Center for restrooms and ranger info. Snow can linger into July, so be ready for cold nights. The camp is close to Shadow Lake and can be a good place to catch your breath before the descent to White River Camp.

Mowich Lake is a pristine lake and a popular overnight spot with a backcountry campground that operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It can get especially busy during peak season, so avoiding those times will give you more camping options. The area offers reliable water sources and also allows boating and fishing in the lake. The campground includes composting toilets. Check current road closures, as access may be limited: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/road-status.htm

Golden Lakes are stunning alpine ponds along the trail with beautiful sunset views. It's a good place to refill water and reset after the long descent from the ridge. The trail flattens briefly here before the steady climb to Mowich Lake begins. You’ll also find a composting toilet nearby. If you decide to camp, remember that a backcountry permit is required.

South Puyallup River Camp is a backcountry site tucked in dense old-growth forest, with access to water from the nearby river (always treat it). It’s a spot for catching your breath before the long climb toward Emerald Ridge. A short side trail leads to the South Puyallup River Bridge, where you can see dramatic columnar basalt formations formed by ancient lava flows.

Indian Bar Camp is one of the most beloved and scenic backcountry camps on the Wonderland Trail, located on the southeastern flank of Mount Rainier in a dramatic alpine basin carved by the Ohanapecosh Glacier. The camp sits where the Wauhaukaupauken Falls tumble into a wide, flower-filled valley, with big views of Rainier’s eastern face, surrounding ridgelines, and the braided river below. Campsites are split into two areas: a group site near the historic Indian Bar shelter (a stone structure built in the 1930s) and several individual tent pads just across the river, accessed by a sturdy footbridge. The individual sites are more exposed but offer incredible views—particularly at sunrise and sunset. Facilities include a composting toilet, bear pole, and nearby water from the glacial river (always treat before drinking). Indian Bar is especially popular during wildflower season and is often cited as a top overnight stop on the entire trail for its dramatic setting and alpine beauty.

Sunrise Camp is a small, high-elevation backcountry campsite located just below the popular Sunrise area on the northeast side of Mount Rainier. Sitting at around 6,200 feet, it offers expansive alpine views, access to wildflower meadows, and a front-row seat to Mount Rainier’s massive eastern glaciers. Despite being near one of the busiest visitor hubs in the park, Sunrise Camp maintains a quieter, backcountry feel, with designated tent sites nestled in subalpine terrain. It’s a great spot for catching alpenglow on Rainier and enjoying crisp, starlit nights above treeline. Snow often lingers into July, and weather can change quickly, so come prepared for cold nights and wind. The camp includes a composting toilet, bear pole, and seasonal water sources nearby (always treat before drinking). Best of all, it's a short walk to the Sunrise Visitor Center, where you can access restrooms, limited resupply options, and ranger assistance during the summer season.