Mount Rainier National Park
Time Needed: multi-day
Experience Type: national park, scenic views
At 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier reigns as the tallest peak in the Pacific Northwest. This active volcano anchors a landscape of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows that burst into bloom each summer. It’s a wonderland of wildflowers, wildlife, and breathtaking mountain views.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- See Wildflowers in Bloom – Visit in late July through mid-August to hike the 1.8-mile Alta Vista Trail, where colorful meadows frame postcard views of Mount Rainier.
- Walk Through the Grove of the Patriarchs – Stroll a gentle 1.5-mile round-trip trail among thousand-year-old Douglas firs and cedars towering above the peaceful Ohanapecosh River.
- Visit Tipsoo Lake – Capture mirrored reflections of Mount Rainier from this serene alpine lake, especially stunning at sunrise or during summer wildflower season.
- See Iconic Waterfalls – Admire the misty plunge of Narada Falls or cross the bridge over picture-perfect Myrtle Falls near the Paradise area for unforgettable views.
- Step Inside Paradise Inn – Built in 1916, this rustic lodge boasts handcrafted wood furniture, a massive stone fireplace, and the nostalgic charm of a bygone mountain era.
Recommended Reading: Day Hike! Mount Rainier is a full-color guide to 50 top trails, from glacier views to wildflower meadows. With maps, clear descriptions, and difficulty ratings, it’s an easy, reliable way to plan the perfect Mount Rainier day hike.
Photo Credit: Ron Barabash/Unsplash