Cowlitz Divide

Cowlitz Divide is an out-and-back hike in Washington's Mount Rainier National Park, within the Mount Rainier Wilderness. The route rises from a low point of 2,139 feet to a high of 4,756 feet, with a total elevation gain of 5,508 feet over the full round trip. The climb is rated expert, and the steepest stretch comes at about 3.5 miles in, with a grade of 26%. The hike is 8.2 miles long, and a round trip takes about 5.5 hours. The trail is managed by the National Park Service, and a fee is charged. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at a similar elevation show July and August highs around 62 to 64°F, with lows in the mid-40s. That station sits higher than the trail's low point, so temperatures on the lower stretches run a bit warmer. The Ohanapecosh River, about 1.2 miles away, and the Spur and Stevens Creek Trail, both within 2 miles, make good companions for a longer day. Ohanapecosh Campground is about 3.6 miles off, and Liberty Cap is roughly 4.6 miles away.