Wonder Mountain Wilderness

Hood Canal Ranger District
Olympic National Forest

This 2,349-acre wilderness is one of the smallest wildernesses in the Western United States. Wonder Mountain Wilderness borders the Olympic National Park and is located west of Lake Cushman in Mason County. Terrain is generally rugged and ranges from a low of 1,740 feet in McKay Creek to the summit of Wonder Mountain at 4,758 feet. The lower slopes are heavily timbered with dense stands of Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and Pacific silver fir. Massive rock outcrops and precipitous pinnacles are common in the higher elevations.

Wonder Mountain is the highest peak in the wilderness. Wonder Ponds and several other ponds are located in the high headwaters of McKay Creek. There are no rivers or major streams in the wilderness.

The two major access roads have seasonal closures from October 1 to May 1 to protect wildlife.

Size: 2,349 acres
Elevation Range: 1,740' to 4,758'
Wilderness Permit: None Required
Key Access Points:
F.S. Roads 2355 & 2451-100
Cross-country access only. There are no constructed trails in the Wonder Mountain Wilderness.

Recreation Opportunities
The Wonder Mountain Wilderness has good opportunities for backpacking, mountain climbing, fishing, and camping in a primitive setting. Opportunities for solitude are excellent.

There are no trails within this wilderness. Access is only by cross-country travel. Wilderness travelers should carry a map and compass for route finding.

Wilderness visitors should always carry rain gear and adequate clothing, food, and backpacking equipment. Proper boots and clothing should be worn.

Notice: Fires above 3,500 feet elevation and groups consisting of more than 12 persons and/or 8 livestock are prohibited within the Wilderness. Fires at Wonder Ponds and all other ponds in the wilderness are prohibited. Stoves only above 3,500 feet elevation.