National Parks Journal
Photo: JD Hascup Photo
Mount Rainier National Park
Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems. A lifetime of discovery awaits.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
5.5 mi · 1,700 ft gain · loop
The park's most popular hike with subalpine wildflowers, close-up Nisqually Glacier views, and distant views to Mount Hood.
Starts at: Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise
3.5 mi · 500 ft gain · loop
Subalpine flower fields with breathtaking Mount Rainier views. Late summer brings abundant huckleberries.
Starts at: Tipsoo Lake at Chinook Pass
6.5 mi · 1,010 ft gain · out & back
Forest climb to Eunice Lake then steep ascent to Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout with spectacular mountain views.
Starts at: Mowich Lake
7 mi · 1,280 ft gain · out & back
Rehabilitated mining road through wildflower meadows with mountain goat viewing and views of the largest glacier in the lower 48.
Starts at: White River Campground
Upcoming Events
Paradise - Plaza Program
Join a ranger for a stationary program. Topics vary by day and ranger, so check at the front desk inside the Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise for today's subject!
Longmire/Cougar Rock - Evening Program
Explore questions about Mount Rainier's human and/or natural history. Join a ranger and other visitors to discuss and learn about the park. If you attend the program but are not camping, please park in the Cougar Rock Picnic Area across the park road from the campground. Parking at the campground is limited.
Paradise - Ranger Guided Walk
Join a Ranger to Discover Paradise. Explore questions about the human and/or natural history of the park on this easy to moderate walk. Up to 1.5 miles roundtrip, on a paved trail.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: May, September, October
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean and elevation. The climate is generally cool and rainy, with summer highs in the 60s and 70s. While July and August are the sunniest months of the year, rain is very likely in spring, fall, and winter. Visitors should be aware that mountain weather is very changeable. In the higher elevations, like Paradise, winter can last from November to May with many feet of snow on the ground.