Mount Rainier National Park

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 (4,390 m) high.

Mt. Rainier, wildflowers and stream

Understand

History

The indigenous people who lived in the region had many names for the mountain dominating the skyline. The words used by Lushootseed and Cowlitz speakers are commonly anglicized as Tahoma, "snow-covered mountain". Archaeological evidence exists of seasonal camps in the subalpine meadows flanking the mountain.

The park was established as America's fifth national park in 1899 (following Yellowstone in 1872 and Yosemite, Sequoia, and General Grant National Parks in 1890). The founding of Mount Rainier National Park was led by local groups, including mountaineering clubs, newspaper editors, businessmen's associations, and University of Washington faculty, and by scientists throughout the country, primarily geologists.

It was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1997 as a showcase for the "NPS Rustic" style architecture of the 1920s and 1930s.

Landscape

Mount Rainier, at 14,410 feet, is the most prominent peak in the Cascade Range, and in the entire contiguous U.S. The mountain stands nearly three miles higher than the lowlands to the west and one and one-half miles higher than the adjacent mountains.

Mount Rainier is a decade volcano, considered quite dangerous because it is close to Seattle and Tacoma, and encased in over 35 sq mi (91 km²) of snow and ice, enough to cause massive flooding and dangerous lahars if there were a large eruption. It last erupted approximately 150 years ago.

In addition to the mountain, the park contains outstanding examples of old growth forests and subalpine meadows. The park contains 26 named glaciers across 9 major watersheds, with 382 lakes and 470 rivers and streams and over 3,000 acres of other wetland types. The park's total area is 235,625 acres, of which 97% is designated Wilderness.

Flora and fauna

The park is part of a complex ecosystem. Vegetation is diverse, reflecting the varied climatic and environmental conditions encountered across the park’s 12,800-feet elevation gradient. Approximately 58 percent of the park is forested, 23 percent is subalpine parkland, and the remainder is alpine, half of which is vegetated and the other half consists of permanent snow and ice. Forest ages range from less than 100 years old on burned areas and moraines left by receding glaciers to old-growth stands 1,000 or more years. Some alpine heather communities have persisted in the park for up to 10,000 years.

Species known or thought to occur in the park include more than 800 vascular plants, 159 birds, 63 mammals, 16 amphibians, 5 reptiles, and 18 native fishes. Commonly seen animals include Columbian black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, noisy Stellar’s jays and common ravens. Other animals that are less-commonly seen but still popular include mammals like elk and black bear, which range in many habitats throughout the summer. Mountain goats typically remain in alpine or subalpine life zones.

Climate

Mount Rainier National Park
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       18     35 23       13     36 22       13     38 24       8.3     42 26       5.9     49 32       4.1     55 36       2     63 43       2     65 44       4.7     58 40       10     48 32       20     37 25       17     34 21 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches    Data from NOAA (1981-2010)
Metric conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       462     2 −5       323     2 −6       320     3 −4       211     6 −3       150     9 0       104     13 2       51     17 6       51     18 7       119     14 4       264     9 0       516     3 −4       437     1 −6 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm

Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean, elevation, and latitude. The climate is generally cool and rainy, with summer highs in the 60s and 70s (°F). While July and August are the sunniest months of the year, rain is possible any day, and is likely in spring, fall, and winter.

The mountain is known for creating its own weather. The summit is often capped with a lenticular cloud, formed when moist air pushes up against a large obstruction. Because the high altitudes interact with higher layers of air, conditions can be unpredictable even when it is nice in the lowlands.

Mount Rainier is one of the snowiest places on Earth. From November to late May, expect to find 10 to 20 feet of snow on the ground. Approximately 630 in (16,000 mm) of snow falls in an average winter at Paradise - in the winter of 1971-72, Paradise established a world record with 1122 inches of snow!

Visitor information

• Park website

Get in

There are three main approaches to the park:

• Southwest Entrance (the Nisqually Entrance), between the town of Ashford and the historic park headquarters in Longmire. This is the closest entrance to Seattle and the Puget Sound region, and the closest entrance to the facilities at Paradise.
• East Entrances, along WA-410 past Greenwater and along WA-123 through Ohanapecosh. This is the closest entrance to Yakima and eastern Washington, and to the facilities at White River and Sunrise.
• Northwest Entrances, on WA-165 past Wilkeson and Carbonado to the Carbon River Ranger Station and to Mowich Lake. These entrances have minimal facilities and are mostly used for hiking access.

The Nisqually Entrance and the facilities at Longmire are open daily year-round. For the rest of the park, access is limited outside of summer.

• Facilities at Paradise and Ohanapecosh are open daily from late-May to mid-October. WA-410 south of Crystal Mountain typically opens in late May, and closes in November.
• Facilities at Sunrise, and Sunrise Road, are open July to early-October.
• The Visitor Center at Paradise, and Paradise Road, move to winter hours between November to March, opening for weekends and holidays.

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.

Parking at Sunrise and Paradise can be problematic during summer weekends, and in all areas of the park around summer holidays, so if possible try to visit mid-week.

from Seattle

To get to Paradise by car, take I-5 south to Tacoma and follow Tacoma directions. It takes about 2½ hours to get to Paradise from Seattle.

To get to Sunrise by car, take I-5 south to I-405, and north on I-405 to WA-167 south, or I-90 east to I-405, and south on I-405 to WA-167 south. Exit onto WA-410 and follow 53 miles (5 miles past park entrance) to White River Road. Take White River road to the right, 15 miles through fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center. It takes about 2 1/4 hours to get to Sunrise from Seattle.

from Tacoma

To get to Paradise by car, take WA-7 south. At Elbe, keep straight onto WA-706, which leads into the Nisqually entrance. It takes about 2 hours to get to Paradise from Tacoma. Most visitors come on sunny summer weekends and holidays.

To get to Sunrise by car, take I-5 north, exiting to WA-167 north. Enter WA-167 freeway after crossing the Puyallup River, and exit to WA-410 after 2 miles. Follow WA-410 53 miles through park entrance and take a right onto White River Road. Follow White River Road through fee station 15 miles to Sunrise Visitor Center. Driving to Sunrise also takes approximately 2 hours from Tacoma.

from Yakima

To get to Sunrise from Yakima, take US-12 west. 5 miles past Naches, continue straight on WA-410, which leads over Chinook Pass. 7 miles after entering the park over Chinook Pass, take a left on White River road, 15 miles through the fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center.

To get to Paradise from Yakima, take US-12 west over White Pass. 12 past White Pass, take WA-123 right for 5 miles, into the park. Take a left onto Stevens Canyon Road, and follow through fee station 21 miles to Paradise.

from Portland

To get to Sunrise from Portland, take I-5 north 76 miles and exit to US 12 east. Follow US 12 for 72 miles and take a left onto WA-123 for 16 miles to the top of Cayuse Pass. At Cayuse Pass, take a left onto WA-410, and follow 3 miles, then take a left onto White River Road, following 15 miles through fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center. Portland to Sunrise will take about 3 1/2 hours by car.

To get to Paradise from Portland, take I-5 north 76 miles and exit to US 12 east. Follow US 12 40 miles and take a left onto WA-7, another 17 miles to Elbe. At Elbe, take a right on WA-706 through the Nisqually entrance and fee station, 31 miles to Paradise. It takes about 3 hours to get to Paradise from Portland.

within the park

To get from Sunrise to Paradise, take the White River Road 15 miles to the intersection with WA-410. Take a right onto WA-410, 3 miles later a right onto WA-123, and after 11 more miles right onto Stevens Canyon Road, through the fee station 21 miles to Paradise. If Stevens Canyon Road is closed, you can continue on WA-123 to US-12, taking a right 7 miles to Packwood. At the north end of town, take a right on Forest Service Road 52/Skate Creek Road for 23 miles to WA-706. Take a right onto WA-706, 4 miles to the Nisqually entrance, and another 17 miles to Paradise.

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.

• Gray Line of Seattle, toll-free: +1 800-426-7532. Offers round-trip bus tours of Mt. Rainier from downtown Seattle, but does not provide one-way trips to the park. 

By 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. It passes through the eastern edge of the park.

Fees and permits

Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2020 are:

• $15 - "Per Person" Fee for individuals on foot/bike
• $25 - Motorcycle Fee
• $30 - Single Vehicle Fee
• $55 - Mount Rainier Annual Pass

An entrance fee is not required to access any of State Routes 410 or 123 on the east side of the park, including the Ohanapecosh campground and visitor center.

There are several passes for groups traveling together in a private vehicle or individuals on foot/bike that provide free entry to Mount Rainier National Park and all national parks, as well as some national monuments, national wildlife refuges, and national forests:

• The $80 Annual Pass (valid for twelve months from date of issue) can be purchased by anyone. Military personnel can obtain a free pass by showing a Common Access Card (CAC) or Military ID.
• The $80 Senior Pass (valid for the life of the holder) is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over. Applicants must provide documentation of citizenship and age. This pass also provides a 50% discount on some park amenities. Seniors can also obtain a $20 annual pass.
• The free Access Pass (valid for the life of the holder) is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Applicants must provide documentation of citizenship and permanent disability. This pass also provides a fifty percent discount on some park amenities.
• The free Volunteer Pass is available to individuals who have volunteered 250 or more hours with federal agencies that participate in the Interagency Pass Program.
• The free Annual 4th Grade Pass (valid for September to August of the 4th grade school year) allows entry to the bearer and any accompanying passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle. Registration at the Every Kid Outdoors website is required.

The National Park Service offers free admission to all national parks on five days every year:

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January); next observance is January 20, 2025
• The first day of National Park Week (third Saturday in April); next observance is April 19, 2025
• The National Park Service Birthday (August 25)
• National Public Lands Day (fourth Saturday in September); next observance is September 28, 2024
• Veterans Day (November 11)

Timed entry

In 2024, Mount Rainier introduced a Timed Entry Reservation requirement for Paradise and Sunrise, the two most popular areas of the park. A reservation is needed for vehicles intending to enter the park from the Nisqually or Stevens Canyon Entrances (to Paradise) or from the White River Entrance (to Sunrise), between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day, between the hours of 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Reservations need to be made in advance on Recreation.gov. Reservations open about 90 days in advance.

Get around

By car

Most visitors explore the area by car, utilizing the parks 147 miles of roads that travel to each of the park's five main areas:

• Longmire (southwest corner).
• Paradise (south side).
• Ohanapecosh (southeast corner).
• Sunrise/White River (east side).
• Carbon River/Mowich Lake (northwest corner).

Parking can be difficult or impossible to find on sunny summer weekends at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove of the Patriarchs, and at trailheads between Longmire and Paradise. Try to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day, and carpool to the park. Parking is not permitted along road edges. Park roads are winding and road shoulders are narrow. The maximum speed limit is 35 mph in most areas. Allow plenty of travel time during your visit.

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.

See

• 1 Longmire (on the south side of the mountain, about 9 miles east of the town of Ashford on State Route 706). 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. (updated Jun 2020)

• 2 Paradise (19 miles (30 km) east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles (19 km) east of Longmire). 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. (updated Jun 2020)

• 3 Ohanapecosh (in the southeast corner of the park on State Route 123, 12 miles north of the town of Packwood). 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. (updated Jun 2020)

• 4 Sunrise (on the north side of Mount Rainier, this visitor center is at the end of the Sunrise Road, 15 miles after the turn off from State Route 410). Only open and accessible in the summer, at 6,400 ft (2,000 m) 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. (updated Jun 2020)

• 5 Carbon River (Mowich Lake) (on the Carbon River Road, 5.5 miles east of its junction with the Mowich Lake Road (State Route 165), the ranger station is just over 2 miles before the road ends at the park boundary). Located in the northwest corner of the park and accessible only on dirt roads that may require high-clearance and are prone to flooding, the Carbon River area offers access to Carbon Glacier via a 3.6-mile (one-way) trail, while Mowich Lake is the largest and deepest lake in the park. Named for coal deposits found in the area, is located in the park’s northwest corner. This part of Mount Rainier National Park receives consistently high amounts of rainfall so the climate and plant communities found here resemble that of a temperate rainforest. The ranger station is staffed by ranger or volunteer as staffing and weather conditions allow. Building hours may vary so call ahead for hours (+1 360-829-9639). When open, rangers and volunteers provide park information, wilderness camping, and climbing permits. Wilderness camping permits available by self-registration when closed. (updated Jun 2020)

Do

Hiking

Southwest area trails

Just past the Nisqually Entrance, the Westside Road was a failed attempt to fully circle the mountain with paved roads. Nine miles of the road were completed before the project was canceled, leaving behind a gravel road popular with cyclists, and a less-strenuous approach to the western side of the mountain.

• Emerald Ridge Trail. (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. 
• Gobblers Knob Trail. (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. 

Longmire is the central hub of the park, at the base of the incline towards Paradise. Hikes here emphasize the early homestead, the dense forest at the foot of the mountain, and the waterfalls flowing from the glaciers above.

• Eagle Peak Trail. (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. 
• Indian Henrys Hunting Ground, from Longmire. (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. 

Narada Falls

• Narada Falls Trail. (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. 
• Rampart Ridge Trail. (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. 
• Trail of the Shadows. (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. 

Near Longmire:

• Comet Falls Trail. (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. 
• Indian Henrys Hunting Ground, from Kautz Creek. (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. 
• Van Trump Park Trail. (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. 

Paradise immerses you in the alpine. Explore the meadows filled with wildflowers, or follow the climbers to the snowfields along the most popular route to the summit.

• Camp Muir Trail. (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. 
• Nisqually Vista Trail. (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. 
• Skyline Trail. (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. 

Stevens Canyon Road passes by a string of lakes that capture the reflection of the majestic mountain.

• Bench Lake Trail. (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. 
• Indian Bar Trail. (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. 
• Pinnacle Peak Trail. (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. 
• Snow Lake Trail. (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. 

East area trails

The Onhanapecosh River along WA-123 harbors the park's most accessible groves of old-growth red-cedar and Douglas fir.

• 1 Grove of the Patriarchs. (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.  
• Life Systems Trail. (0.5 mile). From the Ohanapecosh Campground this easy trail winds through Douglas fir and hemlocks to a bubbling hot spring. 
• Shriner Peak Trail. (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. 
• Silver Falls Trail. (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. 
• Three Lakes Trail. (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. 

Sunrise is the highest point in the park reachable by road. It is perched upon a ridge offering 360-views of the surrounding mountains. Since it is on the drier side of the mountain, the forests open up into expansive meadows, filled with colorful wildflowers in the summer.

• Burroughs Mountain Trail. (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. 
• Mount Fremont Lookout Trail. (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. 
• Palisades Lakes Trail. (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. 
• Shadow Lakes Trail. (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. 
• Sourdough Ridge Trail. (1 mile). An easy trail with guided markers along the way, this short trail in the Sunrise area is a good option for families. 

On Sunrise Road:

• Glacier Basin Trail. (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. 
• Owyhigh Lakes Trail. (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. 
• Summerland Trail. (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. 

The trails along WA-410 climb up steep ridges overlooking the mountain, merging with the extensive National Forest trail network just east of the park.

• Crystal Lakes 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. 
• Naches Peak Loop 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. 
• Pacific Crest Trail. (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. 

Northwest area trails

Rainforest on Green Lake Trail

The Carbon River ranger station receives heavy rainfall, which fosters a temperate rainforest at the foot of the lowest-elevation glacier in the park. The Carbon River road used to be open to cars all the way to Ipsut Creek Campground, but the road washed out in 2006, turning several short day-hikes into longer treks. The portion of the road is still open to bicycles.

• Carbon Glacier 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. 
• Carbon River Rain Forest Nature Trail. (0.3 mile). Near the Carbon River park entrance, this easy day hike explores a unique rain forest environment. 
• Chenuis Falls Trail. (7.4 miles, 500 feet gain). This trail from the Carbon River Ranger Station crosses the Carbon River to a small waterfall. 
• Green Lake Trail. (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. 
• Windy Gap Trail to Lake James. (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. 
• Moraine Park Trail. (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. 
• Mystic Lake Trail. (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. 

The Mowich Lake Campground, at the end of a long and bumpy gravel road, connects you to the most remote and undeveloped region of the park.

• Spray Park Trail. (6 miles, 1300 feet gain). This trail leads to a waterfall and the meadows of Spray Park, as well as views of Mowich Glacier. 
• Tolmie Peak Trail. (6.5 miles, 1010 feet gain). This trail ascends to Eunice Lake and the beautiful views and meadows of Tolmie Peak. 

Wilderness Backpacking

view of little Tahoma from the Wonderland Trail

A Wilderness Permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Advance reservations are available for trips from June to September, and are strongly encouraged. Reservations are handled through Recreation.gov. A limited number of walk-up permits may be available from the Longmire Wilderness Information Center during the summer months. Refer to park's Wilderness Permits page for details.

Many backcountry campsites, particularly along the Wonderland Trail, are in extremely high demand. The park runs an Early Access Lottery each February, for the upcoming summer season. You are unlikely to find camping along the park's signature trails if you're not able to snag an early access permit, though climbing routes and less interconnected campgrounds typically remain available.

• Northern Loop Trail. (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. 
• Golden Lakes Trail. (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. 
• Klapatche Park Trail. (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. 
• 2 Wonderland Trail. (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.  

Mountaineering

The 14,410-foot-tall Mount Rainier is an active volcano that is also the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. It is climbed each year by thousands of people who traverse a vertical elevation gain of more than 9,000 feet over a distance of eight or more miles.

Every route to the summit crosses glaciers and requires knowledge of crevasse safety. Do not attempt this climb if you are unfamiliar with glacier climbing.

Weather, snow, and route conditions can change rapidly and can make the difference between a pleasant and rewarding experience or tragedy. Before climbing, obtain a current weather forecast. Turn back if weather conditions deteriorate. Severe winter-like storms on the mountain are not uncommon during the summer.

Permits are required for all climbers going above 10,000 feet or onto any glacier. Permits for a route be applied for on Recreation.gov, and then obtained in-person from the Paradise Ranger Station, White River Wilderness Information Center, and the Carbon River Ranger Station. Refer to the park's Climbing page for details.

Additionally, the park assesses an Annual Climbing Fee of $68 per person per calendar year, payable online before your visit. Climbing fees are used to help recover costs for protecting the mountain's delicate and unique alpine environment, staffing the mountain's high camps and ranger stations with climbing rangers, managing upper mountain human waste and providing rangers who can rapidly respond to incidents on the mountain.

Numerous guide services are available to help visitors reach the summit:

• Rainier Mountain Guides, ☏ +1 360 569-2227. Offers one-day climbing instruction, two-day summit climbs, five-day climbing seminars, and private climbs. 
• Ascents International, ☏ +1 206 378-1927. Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers. 
• American Alpine Institute, ☏ +1 360 671-1505. Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers. 
• Cascade Alpine Guides, toll-free: +1-800-981-0381. Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers. 
• Mount Rainier Alpine Guides, ☏ +1 360 569-2889. Offers guided summit climbs on the Emmons-Winthrop Glaciers. 

Buy

There are no gas stations within the park. Gift shops can be found at Sunrise, Paradise Inn, Jackson Visitor Center and Longmire.

• Discover Your Northwest (formerly Northwest Interpretive Association), ☏ +1 360-569-6790. 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. 

Eat

Dining options within the park are limited to cafeterias attached to visitor centers, and restaurants attached to the two inns. There are also a few options just outside the park in Ashford, the only town with services within 20 minutes of a park entrance, and in Greenwater, the nearest town to the eastern entrances.

• Paradise Inn Restaurant (Paradise), ☏ +1 360 569-2275. An upscale dining area located in the Paradise Inn and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open seasonally, following the Paradise Visitor's Center schedule. 
• Jackson Visitor Center Grill (Paradise), ☏ +1 360 569-2414. A fast-food restaurant in the Paradise Visitor Center. Open every day during summer, but only weekends and holidays during winter. 
• National Park Inn Restaurant (Longmire), ☏ +1 360 569-2275. Open year-round and offering family-style dining within the National Park Inn. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. 
• Sunrise Lodge. The Sunrise Lodge serves cafeteria-style food during the summer. Due to its higher elevation, it usually does not open until July. 

Drink

Drink and nightlife options are limited within the park. Water is available at all visitor centers, and beverages may be available for purchase from some of the gift shops.

Sleep

Lodging

The great room at the Paradise Inn

There are two inns in the park. Reservations are recommended. There are also many inns, cabins and vacation rentals near the southwest main park entrance along WA-706 in the town of Ashford, and along WA-410 near Greenwater and Crystal Mountain.

• 1 National Park Inn, ☏ +1 360 569-2275. 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).  
• 2 Paradise Inn, ☏ +1 360 569-2275. 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).  

Camping

There are five developed campgrounds located within the park. Reservations are strongly recommended during the summer. Although older signs and maps may still list a sixth campground, Sunshine Point, it was destroyed in 2006 by flooding.

• 3 Cougar Rock (In the southwest corner of the park 2.3 miles northeast of Longmire), ☏ +1-877-444-6777, +1 518-885-3639 (international). (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. $20 Campground Site Fee, $60 Group Site Fee (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 4 Mowich Lake. (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. Free. (updated Jun 2020)

• 5 Ohanapecosh (in the southeast corner of the park, 17 miles northeast of the town of Packwood on State Route 123). (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. $20 Campground Site Fee, $60 Group Site Fee (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)

• 6 White River (on the eastern side of the park below Sunrise, five miles west of the White River Entrance). (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. $20 Campground Site Fee (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)

Backcountry

climbers on Mt. Rainier

Backcountry camping areas within the park include:

• Trailside camps. Primitive campgrounds with one to eight sites.
• Cross-country camps. True wilderness in which leave-no-trace camping should be practiced.
• Alpine camps. Zones reserved for mountaineers, also "leave no trace" camping areas.

There is one established public shelter on Mt. Rainier, located at Camp Muir, 10,080' up the south side of the mountain. It is very crowded in summer and commonly used as a high camp by climbers on the mountain's most popular route. Camp Muir also has a ranger hut, a hut for commercially guided parties, and two outhouses. Reservations for overnight stays are taken by the park administration. Permits are required for overnight camps established above 10,000' elsewhere in the park.

About two-thirds of wilderness permits can be reserved on Recreation.gov, while the rest are available in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Permits can be picked up at the Wilderness Information Centers at Longmire and White River, or at any ranger station during the summer. Winter permits are available at the Longmire Museum. There is $6 per party fee for a wilderness permit, and reservations have an additional $20 per party fee. Permits may be obtained for groups up to twelve people, for up to fourteen days.

Stay safe

Weather in the park can change quickly, so visitors should always bring raingear, a jacket, sunscreen and plenty of water when enjoying the park. The park is an active geologic area, and while the chances of a surprise eruption are low, rockfalls, floods and mudslides are unpredictable and visitors should take care when hiking in valleys and along streams. If a rumbling sound is heard while hiking, or if the water level begins to rise, find higher ground immediately.

Wildlife is generally not dangerous, but common sense should always be used. Give animals their space - keep at least one hundred yards from bears, but also remember that elk and other animals can be just as dangerous. A general rule of thumb is that if an animal is reacting to your presence, you are too close. Never feed any wildlife - it is bad for the animal, and will make that animal more aggressive towards humans. Do not leave scented items in your car as they may attract bears; food, deodorants, toothpaste, and other items should all be stored in bear-proof containers.

When hiking on the mountain, know your limits and do not venture onto glaciers. Seemingly solid ground often hides deep crevasses in the glaciers, making hiking dangerous. Travel on Rainier's glaciers should be attempted only by those familiar with glacier travel or those accompanied by an experienced guide.

Go next

Visit the major cities nearby:

• Portland – Oregon's largest city and cultural capital
• Seattle – Located in the shadow of Mount Rainier, the home of Starbucks features an eclectic mix of people and a vibrant city life

See Washington's other National Parks:

• North Cascades National Park – Home to 50% of all glaciers in the lower 48 states. The undeveloped wilderness is a favorite for climbers and backpackers
• Olympic National Park — Temperate rain forest, rugged Olympic Mountains and wild coastline, this is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in the Pacific Northwest

See the other volcanoes of the Cascade Range:

• Mount Baker — The ski resort that took the snowfall world record from Mount Rainier
• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument – Located south of the park, this mountain is best known for its 1980 eruption