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National park in Washington, United States
Photo: Sabrenaut, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Mount Rainier National Park is a national park located in the state of Washington, some 54 miles (87 km) south-east of Seattle. Established in 1899 and 368 miles² (235,625 acres or 954 km²) in size, the National Park is centered on the spectacular cone of Mount Rainier, a massive active stratovolcano 14,410 ft high.
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With the establishment of Mount Rainier National Park in 1899, Longmire became park headquarters. The site, located at 2700 ft elevation, had previously served as James Longmire's homestead, lodging, and mineral springs resort. Although park headquarters are no longer at Longmire, the original headquarters building houses a museum that tells the story of the early days of the park and about the park's natural and geological history, and animals. A ranger or volunteer staffs the museum to assist with park information and book and map sales.. All of Longmire is now designated a national historic district.
The park's most popular destination, Paradise is famous for its glorious views and wildflower meadows during the summer and hosts record snowfalls in winter receiving on average 641 inches (53.4 feet/16.3 meters) of snow a year. Hiking trails lead through meadows and up onto the mountain's snowfields, making this a great place for dayhikers. Paradise is also the prime winter-use area in the park due to the huge amount of snow it receives. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and tubing. The road between Longmire and Paradise is plowed throughout the winter. This area also includes The historic Paradise Inn, a concessioner-operated hotel, offers lodging, a dining room and a gift shop. The Paradise Inn is usually open from mid-May to early-October and is closed in the winter. The Guide House houses the Paradise Climbing Information Center, where visitors can obtain climbing permits and hiking and backcountry camping information and the historic Paradise Ranger Station. The Jackson Visitor Center is open throughout the summer and with limited days and hours in the winter. Inside the visitor center are accessible restrooms, an information desk staffed by a ranger or volunteer, food services, gift shop, park movie, and exhibits about the plants, animals, and the volcano.
Located in the southeast corner of the park, Ohanapecosh, named for a Taidnapam (Upper Cowlitz) Indian habitation site along the river, is thought to mean "standing at the edge." Situated among Douglas firs, western red cedars, and western hemlocks, visitors to Ohanapecosh can experience the beauty and complexity of an old-growth forest. The east side of the park is also somewhat drier and sunnier than the west side, making it a good destination when Paradise and Longmire are wet and foggy. Ohanapecosh is not accessible in winter. There are restrooms, exhibits, and a ranger or volunteer on duty to answer questions when it is open for the summer season.
Only open and accessible in the summer, at 6400 ft Sunrise is the highest park elevation accessible by car. In summer, mountain meadows abound with wildflowers. On clear days, Sunrise provides breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, Emmons glacier, and many other volcanoes in the Cascade Range. These views and an excellent trail system make Sunrise the second most visited location in the park. The Sunrise Visitor Center has exhibits, some books and maps for sale, and rangers and volunteers on duty to answer questions. Restrooms, gift shop, and food services are located nearby during the summer season.
(17.2 miles, 2100 feet gain). Starting from the Puyallup River trailhead (near the Nisqually entrance), this trail climbs to Emerald Ridge, named for its emerald green subalpine meadows. During late July and August the meadows showcase a variety of brilliantly colored flowers. The first 1.5 miles of trail climbs gradually through old-growth forest to the South Puyallup Camp. From the camp, the trail becomes very rocky and climbs more steeply.
(11.2 miles, 2585 feet gain). The trailhead is near the Nisqually entrance, near the end of the Westside Road (hike 4 miles up the closed portion of the road to Round Pass and the trailhead). Lake George is a pristine mountain lake, nestled in the northwest shoulder of Mount Wow. The rock outcrop of Gobblers Knob is situated at the north end of Mount Wow, a mountain whose name means "goat." The hike to Lake George is easy with a gradual incline. The hike up to Gobblers Knob Lookout is an additional 1.5 miles and much steeper.
(7.2 miles, 2955 feet gain). For the first two miles the trail ascends steeply through dense forest to a small stream, then continues another mile to a meadow. Beyond the meadow the trail is much steeper and rocky as it climbs the final 0.5 miles to the 5700 ft. saddle.
(13 miles, 2400 feet gain). The trail begins at Longmire and later joins the Wonderland Trail before connecting with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Scenery includes old growth forests, mountain meadows, and mountain lakes before reaching the Ranger Patrol Cabin in the meadows of Indian Henrys.
(9 miles, 1700 feet gain). Starting across the road from the Longmire museum, this trail crosses the Nisqually River, continues along the west side of the Paradise River, and rises to Narada Falls.
(4.6 miles, 1339 feet gain). Also known as "The Ramparts," this ridge is the remnant of an ancient lava flow which originated at the summit of Mount Rainier. The loop can be hiked in either direction, but going clockwise keeps Mount Rainier in front more of the time and is thus recommended. The hike begins near the National Park Inn and climbs steeply through dense forest to the top of the ridge. Once on the ridgetop it is 1.3 miles of relatively level hiking before starting the descent along the Wonderland Trail back to Longmire.
(0.7 mile). A self-guiding trail starting from the National Park Inn that leads past an early homestead and numerous plant and flower species.
(3.8 miles, 900 feet gain). Starting four miles east of Longmire on the road towards Paradise, this trail visits one of the highest waterfalls in the park, Comet Falls. For two miles the trail climbs steadily up hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is to the right, where the trail winds through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 miles.
(11.5 miles, 3000 feet gain). The trail begins near the Kautz Creek Picnic Area, passing by Kautz Creek and through an old growth forest before rapidly climbing to the south flank of Mt Ararat. The trail soon enters a series of meadows before climbing a final ridge and descending to the Ranger Cabin in the meadows of Indian Henrys. These areas are the home of several bears as well as deer and other animals.
(5.8 miles, 2000 feet gain). Starting from a parking lot four miles east of Longmire (parking is often full), the trail climbs to Comet Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the park, and then onwards to Van Trump Park. For two miles the trail climbs steadily up hill until it reaches the base of Comet Falls. From there it switchbacks 0.6 mile uphill to the junction with the Rampart Ridge Trail. Van Trump Park is to the right, where the trail winds through the meadows until it dead ends in 0.5 mile.
(9 miles, 4600 feet gain). This hike begins in Paradise, rises through snowfields, and ends to a climber hut before the first glacier on the most popular summit route. It is the highest one can hike without a climbing permit. The hike is long, arduous and potentially hazardous if the weather turns nasty.
(1.2 miles). Starting from the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, this easy loop trail leads through a high-country meadow and offers excellent views of Mt. Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier.
(5.5 miles, 1700 feet gain). Starting from the Paradise parking lot this loop trail climbs 2 miles until reaching Panorama Point, where a toilet is provided for hikers. Past Panorama Point the trail begins its one mile descent to the junction with the Golden Gate Trail. Another 0.75 miles and the Skyline Trail reaches the Stevens-Van Trump Memorial and its junction with the Paradise Glacier Trail. From here it descends into the Paradise Valley, then climbs slightly to Myrtle Falls and finally back to Paradise.
(2.5 miles, 700 feet gain). Starting from the trailhead one and a half miles east of the Reflection Lakes parking area on the south side of the road, this trail is a succession of gradual ups and downs as it crosses a series of low ridges. The path first reaches Bench Lake after 0.75 miles, then continues another 0.5 miles to Snow Lake. Most years these lakes do not melt out until late July and the trail can be muddy until then.
(14.5 miles, 3700 feet gain). Starting from the parking area at Box Canyon, this trail covers a unique section of the Wonderland Trail. Miles of ridge-walking through alpine meadows with views of the southeast side of Mount Rainier, ending in a broad green valley into which pour a dozen waterfalls. One of the legendary places in the Park. A great spot to sit in the moonlight on a late-August night and listen to the bull elk bugling. Generally snow-free late July through September.
(2.5 miles, 1050 feet gain). The trail begins with a gradual ascent from the parking area at Reflection Lakes but soon becomes, and remains, a steep climb to the 5920 foot saddle where the trail ends. Hiking boots are recommended since this trail has either a snow or loose rock surface all summer. From the saddle to the top of Pinnacle Peak is a precipitous scramble on loose, unstable rock. Hikers wishing to get to the top should use extreme caution and have proper equipment.
(2.5 miles, 700 feet gain). Starting from a trailhead 1.5 miles east of Reflection Lakes, this trail climbs to Bench Lake, named for the flat area around the lake that is called "The Bench." The trail is a succession of gradual ups and downs as it crosses a series of low ridges. The path first reaches Bench Lake after 0.75 of a mile, then continues another 0.5 mile to Snow Lake. Most years these lakes do not melt out until late July and the trail can be muddy until then.
(1.5 miles). Starting near the Stevens Canyon entrance, this easy trail leads to an isolated grove of gigantic trees. Isolated on an island and thus protected from fire, the small area contains 20 western red cedars more than 25 feet in circumference; among them is the largest cedar in the Park. There are ten Douglas-firs over 25 feet in circumference; one is 35 feet. The trees are estimated to be nearly 1000 years old.
(0.5 mile). From the Ohanapecosh Campground this easy trail winds through Douglas fir and hemlocks to a bubbling hot spring.
(8 miles, 3434 feet gain). Although this trail begins in the forest, it soon climbs into an old burn area that is open and shadeless. For 2.5 miles the trail continues its steep ascent to the top of the ridge. Still no shade, but a slight breeze sometimes makes the hike more bearable from here on. After a 5 mile walk along the ridge top, the route becomes a series of steep switchbacks for the final climb to an amazing viewpoint. The trailhead is 3.5 miles from the Stevens Canyon entrance.
(2.7 miles, 600 feet gain). This relatively level trail leads from Ohanapecosh Campground along the river to a waterfall that is a popular with families. Opportunities to see woodpeckers, deer, and other wildlife abound.
(12 miles, 2700 feet gain). From the trailhead at Laughingwater Creek, the trail leads hikers through the forest and up to a ridge where hikers will find three small mountain lakes. Mount Rainier can be seen by taking a short half-mile hike beyond the third lake and emerging from the forest into an open area.
(7 miles, 900 feet gain). Starting from the Sunrise parking area, this trail ascends past Shadow Lake and up to an overlook of the White River and Emmons Glacier before reaching a plateau at near Burroughs Mountain.
(5.5 miles, 900 feet gain). This trail starts at Sunrise, passes Frozen Lake, and extends through meadows and rocky crags to a historic fire lookout structure.
(7 miles, 1800 feet gain). From the trailhead at Sunrise this trail ascends past several lakes and meadows. Although the trail has no views of the mountain, hikers often see elk, marmots and pikas along the way. The spur trail to Hidden Lake is worth taking for the beautiful scenery around the secluded lake.
(3 miles, 200 feet gain). One of the many easy trails in the Sunrise area, this trail descends to Shadow Lake and intersects with numerous other trails, making for interesting day-hike possibilities.
(1 mile). An easy trail with guided markers along the way, this short trail in the Sunrise area is a good option for families.
(7 miles, 1280 feet gain). From the White River Campground this trail climbs along an old mining road. Glacier Basin is a good place to look for mountain goats on the slopes.
(7 miles, 1350 feet gain). The trailhead for this trail lies two miles from the White River entrance. The trail climbs through forests and meadows before reaching a series of secluded lakes. Be aware that this is one of the park's few trails that does not offer any views of Mount Rainier.
(8.5 miles, 1500 feet gain). Trailhead three miles from the White River entrance. Starting in forest, it rises to the open but brushy upper valley of Fryingpan Creek where hikers find good views of Mount Rainier. Shortly after crossing the creek at a small cascade, the trail climbs steeply for another 0.5 mile before reaching the open subalpine meadows of Summerland. This is one of Mount Rainier's most crowded trails, hosting several hundred hikers per day on a nice summer weekend, so be aware that parking can be a problem. Mountain goats and elk are frequently sighted along this trail.
(6 miles, 2300 feet gain). The trail to the Crystal Lakes starts along SR 410, four miles north of Cayuse Pass. The trail ascends through a forest, with excellent views of Mount Rainier before nearing Crystal Mountain. Lower Crystal Lake is the smaller of the two lakes, with Upper Crystal Lake lying in a basin 0.5 miles further along the trail.
(3.5 miles, 500 feet gain). An easy loop that is one of the most popular hikes in the park. The trailhead is at Tipsoo Lake, 0.5 miles west of Chinook Pass on SR 410. The trail offers amazing views of the mountain and passes through beautiful subalpine meadows.
(10.5 miles, 1000 feet gain). The Pacific Crest Trail stretches from Mexico to Canada, but the portion within the park lies along the eastern boundary and offers beautiful views as the trail rises and falls over 1000 feet of elevation change. The trail can be accessed at Chinook Pass where it crosses SR 410 or from the Tipsoo Lake Loop Trail.
(7 miles, 1900 feet gain). This trail leads to the Ipsut Creek campground, then along the Carbon river and up to the Carbon Glacier.
(0.3 mile). Near the Carbon River park entrance, this easy day hike explores a unique rain forest environment.
(7.4 miles, 500 feet gain). This trail from the Carbon River Ranger Station crosses the Carbon River to a small waterfall.
(10.8 miles, 1300 feet gain). From Carbon River Ranger Station, passing through an old-growth forest on its way to Green Lake. Don't miss Ranger Falls on your way to Green Lake.
(22 miles, 3450 feet gain). This trail climbs through switchbacks and then through a dry, open forest before reaching subalpine meadows and eventually the boulder-strewn meadows of Windy Gap. Beyond Windy Gap the trail descends to Lake James. Look for mountain goats near Windy Gap.
(21 miles, 3740 feet gain). This trail leads to the Ipsut Creek campground along the Carbon river, past the Carbon Glacier, and up to a flower-filled meadow. The last two miles of this trail lead up steep switchbacks.
(20.8 miles, 3900 feet gain). This trail leads to the Ipsut Creek Campground, crosses the Carbon River, parallels the Carbon Glacier, and then passes through Moraine Park. After passing over two ridges the trail descends to Mystic Lake.
(6 miles, 1300 feet gain). This trail leads to a waterfall and the meadows of Spray Park, as well as views of Mowich Glacier.
(6.5 miles, 1010 feet gain). This trail ascends to Eunice Lake and the beautiful views and meadows of Tolmie Peak.
(35 miles). Starting from the Ipsut Creek Campground, this multi-day trek passes through the most pristine wilderness in the park, visits a natural bridge, passes the Carbon Glacier, and leads along numerous mountain lakes. Total elevation gain along the route is 8500 feet.
(34.5 miles). From the trailhead at the end of Westside Road, the trail leads to an area of fifteen or more small lakes was so named because of the golden sunset colors reflected from the lakes' surfaces. The meadows of Sunset Park are abundant with wildflowers in mid-summer and are host to black bears foraging on the plentiful supply of huckleberries early in the fall.
(21 miles). Beginning at the end of the West Side Road, this trail climbs along a closed road and then rises another 1700 feet as it passes by a serene mountain lake, meadows abundant with subalpine wildflowers, slopes dotted with mountain goats, breathtaking views of Mount Rainier before arriving at a high mountain meadow. Backcountry campsites at Klapatche Park are often full during summer.
(93 miles). A multi-day trek that encircles the mountain, showcasing the views from every angle and linking together nearly every type of landscape in the park. It is considered one of the best backpacking trails in the world. The full trail requires over 22,000 feet in elevation gain. Permits are required for overnight camping. Food may be cached at ranger stations along the trail. Sections of the trail can also be done as day-hikes.
Offers one-day climbing instruction, two-day summit climbs, five-day climbing seminars, and private climbs.
Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers.
Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers.
Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers.
Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers.
An upscale dining area located in the Paradise Inn and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open seasonally, following the Paradise Visitor's Center schedule.
A fast-food restaurant in the Paradise Visitor Center. Open every day during summer, but only weekends and holidays during winter.
Open year-round and offering family-style dining within the National Park Inn. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Sunrise Lodge serves cafeteria-style food during the summer. Due to its higher elevation, it usually does not open until July.
This lodge, open year-round, is in the Longmire Historic District in the southwest corner of the park. 25 guest rooms, full service restaurant, gift shop, post office. Rates are $107 for a room without a bath and $143 for a room with a bath (1-2 people).
Open from late May to early October, this inn was built and 1917 and is located at Paradise. The inn offers 117 guest rooms, full service restaurant, snack bar, lounge, gift shop, post office. Rates are $99 per night for a room without a bath and $149 for a room with a bath (1-2 people).
(Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day). 173 sites, 5 group sites. 146 sites can be reserved in advance, 27 sites are first-come, first-served. Tent and RV sites, with amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, dump station, and amphitheater. Reservations can be made on web or by calling. Cougar Rock Campground is in a steep valley with the Nisqually River across the main road. Thick forest extends through the whole campground providing privacy for campsites. Access to the Wonderland trail is across the road with waterfalls a moderate hike away. Less than 15 minutes of driving can take you to the trails and facilities at Longmire or Paradise.
(late June through mid-October, weather permitting). A primitive campground in the northwest corner of the park, at the end of SR 165 (unpaved road). Offers 10 walk-in sites (tents only). Amenities include pit toilets, but there is no drinking water.
(Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day). 188 sites, 2 group sites. Tent and RV sites, with amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, dump station, and amphitheater. Ohanapecosh Campground is located in a steep mountain valley along the banks of the Ohanapecosh River at an elevation of 1,914 feet. Under the tall trees, the campsites are relatively private. A visitor center and trails are found within the campground that lead to Silver Falls and the Grove of the Patriarchs.
(late June through mid-September). 112 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Tent and RV sites, with amenities including drinking water, flush toilets, and a small amphitheater. White River campground takes its name from the river flowing beside it. Tucked into a steep canyon, curves can be tight. The Wonderland trail runs through the campground on its way up to Sunrise or Summerland.
formerly Northwest Interpretive Association
operates sales outlets at visitor centers throughout the park. They offer publications, maps, posters, videos, children's literature, and other informational materials. There is an online bookstore available and items can be purchased over the phone with a credit card.
By plane
Tourists from afar usually land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), 84 miles and about two hours driving northwest of the park.
By car
Access to Mount Rainier is generally by car.
By bus
Another option to minimize parking hassle is by parking at Ashford, just outside the Nisqually entrance, and take the shuttle into the park and Paradise.
On foot
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) travels 2,650 miles along the West coast of the United States, from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington State.
By foot
Most of the park can only be seen from the extensive network of 240 miles of maintained trails. These are some of the most popular and rewarding trails in the Pacific Northwest.
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