Hiking to High Hut: Complete Guide to Washington’s Best Backcountry Cabin Near Mount Rainier
High Hut is a backcountry cabin perched at 4,760 feet with spectacular 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens. Located in Tahoma State Forest just outside Mount Rainier National Park, this overnight hiking destination offers one of Washington’s most affordable and unique mountain lodging experiences. For just $15 per person per night, you can wake up to alpenglow on Mount Rainier after a challenging but rewarding 3-mile hike.
What makes High Hut special isn’t just the incredible views—it’s the whole experience. You’ll share stories around a wood stove, play cards until midnight, and if you’re lucky, wake up above the clouds to watch sunrise paint the Cascades in gold and pink. This isn’t luxury camping; it’s authentic backcountry adventure that’s accessible to anyone willing to hike uphill for a few hours.
The catch? High Hut books out fast, especially winter weekends when the snowshoeing and skiing access makes it most popular. But with the right planning and realistic expectations, you can secure your spot at one of Washington’s most beloved mountain retreats.
High Hut at a Glance
- Location: Tahoma State Forest, near Ashford, WA (outside Mount Rainier National Park)
- Elevation: 4,760 feet with 360° views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens
- Accommodation: Rustic cabin with bunks, wood stove, cooking facilities
🥾 The Hike
- Distance: 3 miles from upper parking, 4 miles from lower parking
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 ft (upper lot) or 2,400 ft (lower lot)
- Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous (sustained uphill on old logging road)
- Time: 2-3 hours up, 1-2 hours down
💰 Booking & Costs
- Cost: $15/person/night or $120 for entire hut (8 people max)
- Reservations: Required through Mount Tahoma Trails Association
- Booking Opens: Early November for the following year
- Peak Season: December through March (winter access)
Planning Your High Hut Adventure
When to Book Your Reservation
High Hut reservations open in early November through the Mount Tahoma Trails Association website, and winter weekends disappear within days. Here’s the reality of booking:
Winter Weekends (December-March): Book the day reservations open. Set multiple alarms, have your dates ready, and be prepared to be flexible with your preferred weekend.
Winter Weekdays: Much easier to book and often just as rewarding. You’ll have smaller crowds on the trail and potentially better weather windows.
Summer Season (June-September): Significantly easier to book, but you’ll miss the classic winter hut experience that most people rave about.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, October-November): Great compromise with decent availability and potentially incredible conditions, but weather can be unpredictable.
Seasonal Strategy: When to Go
Winter (December-March): The Classic Experience This is when High Hut shines. Snow transforms the forest into a winter wonderland, the trail is groomed for snowshoeing and skiing, and waking up in a warm cabin surrounded by snow-covered peaks is magical.
What to expect: 2-4 feet of snow, temperatures from 10-40°F, shorter daylight hours (plan to arrive with headlamps), and the need for winter backcountry skills.
Why it’s worth it: This is the experience most people dream about—cozy cabin, snow-covered mountains, and that incredible contrast between the warm hut and the winter wilderness outside.
Summer (June-September): The Hidden Season Summer at High Hut offers a completely different but equally rewarding experience. The trail becomes a hiking route instead of a snow adventure, wildflowers bloom in the alpine zones, and you can explore areas that are inaccessible in winter.
What to expect: Clear trail conditions, wildflower displays, potentially hot hiking conditions, and longer days for exploration.
Why consider it: Less crowded, easier logistics, opportunity for side trips, and you can appreciate the surrounding terrain that’s hidden under snow in winter.
Spring/Fall (April-May, October-November): The Wild Cards These shoulder seasons offer the most unpredictable but potentially most rewarding experiences. You might encounter anything from bare ground to deep snow, from crystal-clear summit views to complete whiteouts.
What to expect: Highly variable conditions, fewer crowds, potential for incredible weather windows, and the need to be prepared for anything.
Group Planning Considerations
Solo Travel: You’ll likely share the hut with others, which can be part of the fun. Solo travelers often meet great people and form impromptu hiking partnerships.
Small Groups (2-4 people): Perfect size for hut sharing. You can book individual spots and hope for compatible hut mates, or try to coordinate with friends for a partial hut rental.
Large Groups (5-8 people): Rent the entire hut for $120. This gives you privacy and control over the experience, plus it often works out cheaper per person.
Mixed Skill Levels: The sustained uphill can challenge less experienced hikers. Plan extra time, bring encouraging snacks, and be prepared for some people to take longer than expected.
What to Expect: The Trail to High Hut
Trail Conditions and Navigation
The hike to High Hut is straightforward but relentless—you’re basically walking uphill on an old logging road for 3-4 miles. There aren’t really any flat sections to catch your breath, which makes it more challenging than the distance suggests.
Summer Trail Conditions: The trail is clear and easy to follow, but it’s still a logging road, so don’t expect scenic single track. You’ll be walking on packed dirt and gravel with steady switchbacks through second-growth forest. The views don’t really start until you reach the hut.
Winter Trail Conditions: The Mount Tahoma Trails Association grooms the trail for skiing and snowshoeing, which makes winter access much more feasible. You’ll follow groomed tracks through snow-covered forest, but the sustained uphill remains challenging even with the good footing.
Navigation Notes:
- The trail is well-marked and hard to lose
- Cell service is spotty to nonexistent
- Download offline maps as backup
- The route splits early—follow signs for High Hut groomed trail (left fork)
Parking Lot Strategy
There are two parking options, and which one is open affects your hike significantly:
Upper Parking Lot (Preferred):
- 3 miles to High Hut, 1,700 feet elevation gain
- Often closed in winter (gated)
- Check current access before your trip
Lower Parking Lot:
- 4 miles to High Hut, 2,400 feet elevation gain
- Always accessible year-round
- Adds significant distance and elevation
- Has toilet facilities
Pro tip: Call ahead or check recent trip reports to confirm which parking area is accessible. The extra mile from the lower lot is more challenging than you’d expect.
What the Hike Actually Feels Like
First Mile: Steady uphill through forest. Your legs will start talking to you, but nothing too serious yet. This is where you settle into your pace and realize this isn’t going to be a casual walk.
Second Mile: The grade doesn’t let up, and you’ll start questioning your fitness level even if you’re in good shape. This is where snack breaks and encouraging friends become essential.
Final Push: The last mile feels the longest, but you’ll start getting glimpses of alpine terrain and maybe even mountain views. When you finally see the hut, it feels like winning the lottery.
Winter Considerations: Add 30-60 minutes to these times. Snow conditions vary dramatically, and even groomed trails require more effort than summer hiking.
Inside High Hut: What’s Provided & What to Bring
What You’ll Find at the Hut
High Hut is rustic but surprisingly well-equipped for backcountry standards:
Sleeping Arrangements:
- Bunk beds, a futon and sleeping mats for 8 people total
- Mix of sleeping loft and main room options
- Basic pillows provided (bring pillowcase or your own)
- No bedding—bring sleeping bag and personal items
Cooking Facilities:
- Propane stove and oven
- Wood-burning stove for heat
- Pots, pans, cooking utensils, plates, cups, silverware
- Basic spices, salt, pepper, cooking oil
- Coffee and tea supplies
Other Amenities:
- Dining table with seating
- Cleaning supplies and dish soap
- Firewood (amount varies by season)
- Pit toilet about 30 feet from hut
- Filtered water system (winter) or bring your own (summer)
Essential Gear to Pack
Year-Round Essentials:
- Sleeping bag rated for expected temperatures
- Pillow or pillowcase for provided pillow
- All food and drinks for your stay
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- First aid kit
Summer-Specific Additions:
- Water bottles (no reliable water source in summer)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Layers for temperature swings
- Sturdy hiking boots with good traction
Winter-Specific Essentials:
- Snowshoes or touring skis
- Winter hiking boots or ski boots
Food Planning Strategy
What Works Well:
- One-pot meals that use the provided cookware
- Foods that don’t require refrigeration
- Easy-to-clean dishes (you’ll be washing by hand)
- Plenty of hot drinks and snacks
Group Meal Strategy: Coordinate who brings what if you’re renting the whole hut. One person handling breakfast, another dinner, everyone contributing snacks and drinks works well.
Seasonal Guide: Summer vs. Winter High Hut Experiences
Winter: The Classic High Hut Adventure
Why Most People Choose Winter: The winter experience at High Hut is what built its reputation. Snowshoeing or skiing up through snow-covered forest, arriving at a warm cabin with 360-degree views of snow-capped peaks, and waking up to alpenglow on Mount Rainier creates memories that last forever.
What Makes Winter Special:
- Groomed trail system managed by MTTA volunteers
- Snow-covered landscape transforms the entire experience
- Cozy cabin atmosphere enhanced by contrast with winter conditions
- Potential for incredible sunrise/sunset photography
- Shared experience with other winter adventurers
Winter Challenges to Expect:
- Shorter daylight hours (plan arrival by 3-4 PM)
- Cold temperatures requiring proper gear
- Trail conditions can vary from packed snow to post-holing
- Weather can change rapidly in mountain environments
- Heavier packs due to winter gear requirements
Winter Safety Considerations:
- Basic avalanche awareness recommended
- Check weather forecasts and trail conditions
- Inform someone of your travel plans
- Carry emergency shelter and extra food
- Know your limits in winter backcountry conditions
Summer: The Underrated Alternative
Why Summer High Hut Works: Summer offers a completely different but equally rewarding High Hut experience. Easier trail access, wildflower displays, longer days for exploration, and the chance to appreciate terrain that’s hidden under snow in winter.
Summer Advantages:
- No specialized winter gear required
- Longer daylight hours for flexible timing
- Wildflower displays in alpine areas
- Opportunity for side trips and exploration
- Generally more predictable weather conditions
What You’ll Miss:
- The classic winter cabin experience
- Groomed trail system (summer trail is just the logging road)
- Snow-covered mountain views
- Cozy contrast between warm hut and winter conditions outside
Summer Strategy:
- Bring extra water (no reliable summer water source)
- Plan for potentially hot hiking conditions
- Take advantage of longer days for sunset/sunrise viewing
- Explore areas around the hut that are inaccessible in winter
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book High Hut reservations?
Reservations open in early November through the Mount Tahoma Trails Association website (skimtta.org). Winter weekends book out within hours or days, so set calendar reminders and be ready to book immediately when reservations open.
Can you day hike to High Hut without staying overnight?
Yes! The hut is typically unlocked during the day, so you can hike up, warm up by the fire, enjoy the views, and hike back down the same day. Just be respectful of overnight guests’ space and gear.
What’s the difficulty level for High Hut?
It’s a sustained uphill climb that can be challenging in snow. If you can comfortably hike 5+ miles with 1,000+ feet of elevation gain, you can handle High Hut. Winter adds complexity with snow navigation and gear requirements.
How much does High Hut cost?
$15 per person per night, or $120 to rent the entire hut for up to 8 people.
What’s actually provided at High Hut vs. what do I need to bring?
The hut provides: bunks, pillows, cooking equipment, dishes, basic spices, coffee/tea, firewood, and cleaning supplies. You bring: sleeping bag, food, personal items, appropriate clothing and gear. In winter, water is provided through a filtration system; in summer, bring all your own water.
Are there other cabins like High Hut in the area?
Mount Tahoma Trails Association operates four backcountry accommodations: High Hut (the highest and most popular), Snow Bowl Hut (similar experience, slightly different views), The Yurt (different structure, forest setting), and Copper Creek Hut (in the north district).
When is the best time to visit High Hut?
Winter (December-March) offers the classic experience with snow access and mountain views, but books up fastest. Summer (June-September) is easier to book with wildflowers and simpler logistics. Shoulder seasons can offer incredible experiences but with more variable conditions.
How early should I arrive at High Hut?
In winter, plan to arrive by 3-4 PM due to shorter daylight hours. Summer offers more flexibility, but arriving with 2-3 hours of daylight lets you settle in and enjoy sunset views from the hut.
What if High Hut is booked when I want to go?
Check for last-minute cancellations, consider other MTTA huts (Snow Bowl or The Yurt), look into fire lookout rentals in the Mount Rainier area, or plan backcountry camping alternatives in the region.
Is High Hut suitable for children?
The sustained uphill might challenge kids, but motivated children who regularly hike can handle it with proper pacing and plenty of encouragement. (its so depended on the child) The hut itself is kid-friendly with games, cooking activities, and incredible views to keep them engaged.
High Hut vs. Other Mount Tahoma Trails Association Options
If High Hut is booked out (which happens frequently), MTTA operates three other backcountry accommodations:
Snow Bowl Hut
Similar to High Hut: Mountain views, winter access, rustic cabin experience Different: Slightly lower elevation (4,400 ft), different mountain views, 8.4 miles round trip vs. 6-8 miles for High Hut Best for: Groups wanting similar experience with potentially better availability
The Yurt
Different experience: Forest setting vs. ridge-top views, circular structure vs. cabin, more secluded feeling Distance: 12.6 miles round trip (longer commitment) Best for: Groups wanting more solitude and a unique structure experience
Copper Creek Hut (North District)
Different logistics: Separate trail system, different access point Best for: Groups exploring different areas of the Mount Tahoma Trails system
Safety and Leave No Trace at High Hut
Backcountry Safety Essentials
High Hut sits in a wilderness setting where self-sufficiency is essential:
Communication: Cell service is unreliable. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
Weather Awareness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Check forecasts and be prepared for conditions worse than predicted.
Emergency Preparedness: Carry first aid supplies, extra food, emergency shelter, and know your evacuation options.
Winter Considerations: Basic avalanche awareness is recommended. Understand terrain, weather patterns, and rescue limitations in winter conditions.
Respecting the High Hut Experience
High Hut exists because volunteers maintain it and users respect it:
Clean Up Thoroughly: Sweep floors, wash dishes, pack out all trash, leave it cleaner than you found it.
Share Common Spaces: If sharing the hut, be considerate of noise levels, space usage, and others’ gear.
Fire Safety: Follow all wood stove protocols, ensure fires are completely out, don’t leave fires unattended.
Preserve the Resource: Report maintenance issues, donate to MTTA when possible, follow all posted guidelines.
Why High Hut Should Be on Your Washington Bucket List
High Hut isn’t just about reaching a backcountry cabin—it’s about the complete experience of earning your mountain views, sharing stories around a wood stove, playing cards by lamplight, and waking up to alpenglow on Mount Rainier. It’s accessible adventure that feels remote, affordable luxury that’s authentically rustic, and a shared experience that creates lasting memories.
Whether you’re snowshoeing through winter forest or hiking summer wildflower displays, whether you’re sharing the hut with new friends or renting it for your own group celebration, High Hut delivers the Pacific Northwest mountain experience at its finest. For $15 per person, there’s arguably no better value for mountain accommodation in Washington.
The key is realistic expectations: you’ll work for those views, the accommodations are rustic, and the weather might not cooperate. But when everything comes together—clear mountain views, cozy cabin atmosphere, and the satisfaction of earning your mountain retreat—High Hut creates the kind of memories that keep you planning your next mountain adventure.
Start checking the Mount Tahoma Trails Association website in early November, have your dates ready, and prepare for one of Washington’s most beloved backcountry experiences.
