Mount Rainier is just 60 miles from SeattleThe icon of the is the Pacific Northwest.
The summit of the volcano is located 14,410 feet above the sea level, in middle of the country. Mount Rainier National ParkIt is also the tallest of the Cascade Range. The mountain is surrounded by coniferous forest and valleys filled with wildflowers.
Only about half of the 1.5 million visitors to Mount Rainier National Park each year succeed in reaching the summit. The bucket-list climb may be a worthwhile feat in and of itself, but there are 275 miles maintained hiking trails as well as 228,400 acre (97% of park) designated wilderness areas that will keep even the less adventurous adventurer busy for life.
Mount Rainier National Park is usually crowded in the summer. So, if you want to find solitude, visit during the shoulder seasons or midweek. You can also escape the crowds by putting on a backpack, and exploring the wilderness.
One of the best ways to connect trails on a multiday backpacking trip is by hiking through the mountains. Carbon Glacier and Moraine Park Trails Create a 21 mile out-and back trip to get a close look at the lowest elevation glacier in the lower 48. Consider the 40-mile trek if you have at least 3 or 4 days available to explore the backcountry. Northern Loop TrailIt’s important to visit a ranger before you start a trip. You should stop at a ranger’s station before a backpacking tripNot only can you get a permit for the backcountry, but also help with logistics and planning.
If you want to do a shorter hike, try the 4.6 mile Rampart Ridge Trail This trail winds through old-growth forests before reaching an elevated ridge where there are several scenic viewpoints. The 3.5 mile Naches Peak Loop Trail It is one the most popular hikes within the park. The trail traverses subalpine meadows that offer views of Rainier. Mount Rainier National Park is continuing to implement new measures in response to the 40% increase of visitors over the past decade. timed entry reservation system for one of the park’s popular areas—the Sunrise Corridor—during the 2025 summer season.
Best for Snow lovers, adventurers and those seeking solitude. Mount Rainier National Park gets an average of 600 inches snow each year, making it the snowiest place in the US. Mount Rainier is popular with skiers, snowboarders and others who enjoy a winter wonderland. However, the park’s glaciers allow visitors to access the snow in the summer. It’s also possible to escape the crowds by taking one of the park’s multi-day, longer hikes.
What to do: There are three camping areas for cars, and many backcountry sites. National Park Inn and Paradise Inn Within the park, there are two different lodging options. You can also find plenty of accommodation outside the park in several gateway towns, depending on where you want to go. Ashford is only minutes away from the Nisqually Entrance to the park’s Paradise Region, one of its most popular areas. Crystal Mountain is a popular ski resort that’s used to access the Sunrise area of the park. Packwood is located just one hour away from the two areas and has its own ski area. brewery Perfect for relaxing after an adventure-filled day.
