the Details
"you might want to bring a helicopter"

Run 50K from Paradise to Sunrise in the Mt. Rainier National Park via the Wonderland Trail. The Wonderland Fifty 2009 will challenge you every step of the way with over 16,000' elevation gain/loss, 4600' average altitude and rugged terrain. Come prepared or leave defeated.

 
SCHEDULE (see the Date for a calendar of events, August 2009)
  • Friday: Check-in and mandatory gear check at Cougar Rock campground (SW corner of Mt. Rainier park) from 5-10pm. (www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/camping.htm)
  • Saturday: Wake up nice & early to a hearty pancake & oatmeal breakfast.
  • The Run begins at 6:00 am (Paradise)
  • Support crews stationed at:
    - Louise Lake
    - Box Canyon Overlook Trail Entrance
    - Indian Bar Shelter
    - Summerland Shelter
    - White River Camp Ground
  • Finish at Sunrise Park by 5:30 pm. Although there are no cut-off times, you should leave the Box Canyon Overlook support station before 9:30 am.
  • Stay the night at White River camp ground, or drive back home with blistered feet.
GEAR
The following items are required for the entire run:
  • Whistle (one per person)
  • Trail Map (one per person, provided)

The following gear is mandatory between Box Canyon Overlook Trail and White River Camp Ground support stations:

  • Space Blanket (one per person)
  • Water (enough for 2 litres per person)

Here is a list of suggested gear:

  • Warm running clothes for the start. You can leave clothes at any of the support stations if you like.
  • Lots of food (PowerBar, CliffBar, Pizza!)
  • Electrolyte replacement fluids (CytoMax, NUUN, etc.)
  • Sunscreen
  • Running hat or visor
  • Extra pair of socks
  • Gaiters
  • Disposable or digital camera
  • Sunglasses
SUPPORT
Support crew will be stationed at 5 checkpoints along the trail with food, water refills and moral support. Runner's progress will be relayed to headquarters.
 
RULES OF THE TRAIL
  • Team members must stay within 100m of each other unless necessary for safety reasons.
  • You must stay on the signed "Wonderland Trail" at all times. We will do our best to mark the course for you, but it's up to you not to get lost.
  • Minimize our damage to nature by practicing "leave no trace."
  • Follow Mt. Rainier National Park Rules and Regulations.
  • Park fee of $15 per vehicle must be paid to enter the National Park. (good for 7 days)

A Thrive AR Team Journey 2009