In western Washington, people often say, “The mountain is out.” They are talking about Mount Rainier, the tallest mountain in the state. It’s so huge and beautiful that even from 70 miles away, people stop to admire it. But seeing it up close is even more amazing.
In 1888, naturalist John Muir described Mount Rainier as a massive, magical world of its own. At over 14,400 feet, it is covered with rock, snow, and 28 glaciers, making it the most glaciated peak in the lower 48 states. Around the mountain, you’ll find colorful meadows, waterfalls, and deep forests. All of this beauty lies inside Mount Rainier National Park, voted one of the best national parks in the U.S. in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards.
Why Mount Rainier Is Special
Sophia McKee, a local tour guide, says the park is completely centered around the mountain, which locals treat like a constant companion. The park covers 236,000 acres and is famous for hiking, views, and mountain climbing. It’s also one of America’s oldest national parks and has many historic buildings.
Know Before You Visit
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Entry costs $15–$30 and is valid for a week. The park is cashless, so pay by card.
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The weather changes fast. Bring layers and the ten essentials when hiking.
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Parking fills up early in summer, especially in Longmire and Paradise.
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Weekdays are less crowded.
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Some roads close in winter—check the National Park Service website.
Best Time to Visit
The best months are July and August, when wildflowers bloom and the weather is warm. It’s crowded, but beautiful.
Fall is quieter and many prefer it.
Winter brings snowshoeing, skiing, and peaceful scenery, but some roads and shops may be closed.
How to Get There
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The park is 1.5 hours from Seattle and 2.5 hours from Portland.
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Main entrances: Nisqually, White River, and Stevens Canyon.
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In summer, avoid Nisqually because of long lines. Stevens Canyon is quieter.
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You’ll need a car to explore. Private shuttle services are also available.
Best Things to Do
1. Go Hiking
Mount Rainier has 260+ miles of trails. Popular hikes:
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Skyline Loop – wildflowers, waterfalls, and mountain views.
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Burroughs Mountain Trail – fewer crowds, amazing views.
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Comet Falls – a 300-foot waterfall.
2. Backpack the Wonderland Trail
A 93-mile loop around the mountain. It takes 1–2 weeks and offers beautiful remote scenery.
3. Visit Historic Fire Lookouts
Old towers with stunning views:
Mount Fremont, Shriner Peak, Gobbler’s Knob, and Tolmie Peak.
4. Explore Park History
Visit old buildings from the 1920s in Longmire and Paradise.
Don’t miss the famous Nisqually entrance arch from 1911.
5. Try Climbing or Visit Camp Muir
Experienced climbers try to summit the mountain.
Non-climbers can hike to Camp Muir, the highest point reachable without a climbing permit.
Popular Hikes
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Comet Falls – 3.8 miles round trip, great waterfall views.
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Burroughs Mountain – best for clear views of Rainier.
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Tolmie Peak – 6.5 miles, Instagram-famous lookout tower.
Nightlife (Nature Style)
There’s no city nightlife, but the night skies are incredible. Low light pollution makes stargazing amazing in areas like:
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Paradise Corridor
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Inspiration Point
Where to Stay
Paradise Inn
Historic 1917 lodge near the meadows. No Wi-Fi, but amazing location.
Alexander’s Lodge
A charming, old Victorian lodge near Nisqually. Has a pond and cozy atmosphere.
Mount Rainier National Park Cabins
Cute cabins with kitchens, fire pits, hot tubs, and pet-friendly options.
The park also offers campgrounds and wilderness camping with permits.
Where to Eat
Inside the Park
Paradise Inn has a dining room with Northwest-style dishes.
Nearby Options
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Copper Creek Inn – famous for its blackberry pie.
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Wildberry Restaurant – Himalayan dishes made by a Sherpa family.
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Packwood Brewing Co. – craft beer and comfort food after a long hike.
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