Banshee Peak


Banshee Peak is located in the eastern section of Mt. Rainier National Park between Panhandle Gap and the Cowlitz Chimneys. No map that I have found labels this peak as Banshee or any other name, however, Beckey's Cascade Alpine Guide identifies this peak as Banshee Peak. It is not a challenging objective, but it does offer other rewards and makes for a relaxing outing. Its SW slopes are gentle and open, offering a continuous view of the area. A very large herd of mountain goats (easily more than 20) roam this area. I spotted them in the basin between Banshee Peak and the main Cowlitz Chimney. Banshee's NE side is exactly the opposite with steep cliffs and the Sarvant Glaciers below. Banshee offers a good vantage point to try to figure out the much more complex route up the main Cowlitz Chimney, Hmmm...

To get to Banshee Peak, follow the Wonderland Trail from White River Road through Summerland to Panhandle Gap. From Panhandle Gap, traverse around the south side of the high point just east of the gap to a flat saddle area and then continue through the meadows along the crest. There are several high points along the crest, but the true summit is a rocky area about one mile from the saddle.