4.7 miles, 1200' gain, 2100' descent

(7.6 miles including my Banshee Peak side trip)

The climb from Summerland up to Panhandle Gap is one of my favorite sections of trail in the whole world (although, see later). It quickly leaves the rich wildflower meadows, entering an otherworldly realm of barren rock, snowfields, streams, and meltwater pools.

The section of trail immediately before Panhandle Gap crosses a north facing snowfield that often remains challenging until late in the season. I visited right at the transition point where this had not yet entirely melted, but was small enough that folk were clambering around below it rather than attempting to cross the remaining patch of snow. It was a steep boulder scramble, thankfully short.

Today, Panhandle Gap was a weather divide. I had climbed in sunshine but found dense clouds to the south. Would my planned side trip that starts from here be worthwhile if socked in? I decided to take the chance: see my article on Banshee Peak for details (spoiler, it was worth it).

Back on the Wonderland, the traverse across the high alpine of Ohanapecosh Park and then descent to Indian Bar was a misty, moody experience with much subtle shading of grey and rock but no big views to be had this day.

Indian Bar is, much like Summerland, just an absolute delight of a place. It's such a privilege to be able to spend a night here. The wide river valley is surrounded by waterfalls descending cliffs, and I had my own private viewpoint overlooking this from immediately behind my campsite.