Panhandle Gap Hike

The hike to Panhandle Gap is long, but it’s full of great views and points of interest along the trail. You’ll cross through Summerland Gap, enjoy some small lakes, and then finish off at the gap, which offers awesome views.

Take Summerland Trail south from the Summerland parking area. The trail shortly joins Wonderland Trail- stay straight and hike roughly alongside Fryingpan Creek. You’ll switchback along a few tight turns and then continue straight along to Camp Summerland after a few more switchbacks. The trail out of camp continues south along Wonderland.

Hiking along Wonderland for another mile, you’ll pass a couple of small lakes. These are somewhat uninspiring, so keep going for 0.4mi to the gap. The views here are fantastic, and it’s a nice place to recoup before retracing your steps back to the parking area.