Discover the Majestic Beauty of Mount Rainier National Park
Explore the natural wonders of Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Nestled in the state of Washington, Mount Rainier National Park is a true gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This iconic national park is home to the majestic Mount Rainier, a towering stratovolcano that dominates the skyline with its snow-capped peak. Visitors to the park can explore a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush forests and alpine meadows to glaciers and volcanic landscapes. As a tourist attraction and national park, Mount Rainier offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking trails wind through the park, providing stunning views of the mountain and opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, elk, and bears. For more adventurous visitors, there are opportunities for mountaineering, backcountry camping, and snowshoeing in the winter months. In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Rainier National Park also boasts a rich cultural history. The park is home to historic buildings and structures, including the Paradise Inn, which offers a glimpse into the park's past as a popular tourist destination. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, or a peaceful retreat in nature, Mount Rainier National Park has something for everyone.
A brief summary to Mount Rainier National Park
- Washington, US
- +1360-569-2211
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the weather conditions and dress appropriately for your visit, as the climate at Mount Rainier can change rapidly.
- Plan your visit during the summer months for the best chance to see wildflowers in bloom and clear views of the mountain.
- Take advantage of ranger-led programs and guided hikes to learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Seattle, take I-5 South to I-405 South and merge onto WA-167 South. Continue on WA-167 until you reach the junction with WA-512 East. Follow WA-512 East which will lead you to Puyallup, where you will merge onto SR-161 South. Continue on SR-161 until you reach the entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. The drive typically takes about 2 hours depending on traffic.
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Car from Tacoma
From Tacoma, take SR-7 South. Follow SR-7 which will take you directly to the entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. This route is scenic and will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Make sure to fill up on gas in Tacoma as there are limited services once you enter the park.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transport, take a Sound Transit bus from Seattle to Puyallup. From Puyallup, you can catch Pierce Transit Route 400 which goes towards Eatonville. You will need to transfer to a local taxi or rideshare service from Eatonville to the entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, as public transport does not go directly into the park. Be sure to check the local bus schedules in advance.
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Rideshare
Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option if you are in the surrounding areas of the park. Simply input 'Mount Rainier National Park' as your destination in the app. Prices may vary based on your location but expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $80 depending on distance from nearby towns. This is a good option for those who do not have a personal vehicle.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking is a great way to reach the park. There are bike paths leading up to the park entrance from nearby towns like Ashford and Enumclaw. Ensure you are prepared for the terrain and weather conditions, and make sure to wear a helmet. Keep in mind that there are no bike rentals available within the park, so you will need to bring your own bike.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Rainier National Park Lodging
23.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mount Rainier National Park, where towering peaks and vibrant wildflowers create unforgettable adventures in nature.
Mather Memorial Parkway Monument
26.9 km
Explore the serene Mather Memorial Parkway Monument in Enumclaw, WA, honoring conservation while surrounded by breathtaking Pacific Northwest landscapes.
Wilkeson Historic Coke Ovens
34.2 km
Explore the Wilkeson Historic Coke Ovens, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the rich industrial heritage of Washington State amidst breathtaking scenery.
Historic Washington Hotel and Brothel
34.7 km
Explore the rich history of the Historic Washington Hotel and Brothel in Wilkeson, WA, a captivating historical landmark filled with stories of the past.
Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Ranger Station
40.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest at the Ranger Station near Enumclaw, Washington.
Alder Dam Viewpoint
45.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Alder Dam Viewpoint, a historical landmark with breathtaking views of Alder Lake and surrounding nature.
Connells Prairie Battle Historical Marker
45.8 km
Uncover the rich history of the Connells Prairie Battle Historical Marker in Buckley, WA, a serene testament to the past amidst stunning natural beauty.
Interpretive Site: Layser Cave
47.8 km
Discover Layser Cave, a historical landmark in Washington that offers a unique blend of geological wonders and rich local history.
Mayflower Dairy - Historic
54.9 km
Explore Mayflower Dairy, a beautifully restored historical landmark in Tacoma, WA, showcasing the region's rich agricultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion
55.0 km
Step into the past at Meeker Mansion, a historic landmark in Puyallup, WA, showcasing the rich heritage of Washington State.
Mount Catherine Trailhead
58.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and diverse trails at the Mount Catherine Trailhead in Snoqualmie Pass, a must-visit for all hiking enthusiasts.
Crow with Fries
59.5 km
Discover the enchanting history of Crow with Fries in Auburn, WA, where rich heritage meets serene natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.
Annette Lake Trailhead
60.1 km
Explore the stunning trails and serene beauty of Annette Lake Trailhead in North Bend, Washington – a must-visit for every nature lover.
Granite Mountain Trailhead
60.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures at Granite Mountain Trailhead in North Bend, Washington.
The Hobart Yellow Submarine
60.6 km
Discover the Hobart Yellow Submarine in Maple Valley - a vibrant historical landmark that combines creativity, history, and fun for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt. Rainier Ingraham Flats
3.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ingraham Flats at Mt. Rainier, where stunning views and vibrant landscapes await every adventurer.
Mount Rainier
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Mount Rainier, a stunning volcano in Washington State, perfect for outdoor adventures year-round.
Glacier Basin Trailhead
6.6 km
Explore the stunning Glacier Basin Trailhead in Mt. Rainier National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await every outdoor enthusiast.
Mount Rainier Wonderland trail
6.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Wonderland Trail at Mount Rainier National Park, a premier hiking destination for every nature lover.
Mt. Fremont Fire Lookout
7.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and historical significance of Mt. Fremont Fire Lookout in Mount Rainier National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Sunrise Visitor Center
7.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural wonders at Sunrise Visitor Center, your gateway to Mount Rainier National Park's stunning landscapes.
Mount Fremont Lookout Trail
7.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Mount Fremont Lookout Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Washington's stunning landscapes.
Panorama Point Overlook
8.7 km
Explore the stunning vistas at Panorama Point Overlook, a scenic viewpoint showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Mount Rainier and its surroundings.
Summerland Trailhead
8.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas and vibrant landscapes of Summerland Trailhead, a must-visit hiking destination in Ashford, Washington.
Van Trump Trail, Mount Rainier National Park
9.6 km
Explore the natural wonders of Van Trump Trail in Mount Rainier National Park, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every nature lover.
Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument
9.6 km
Explore the Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument, a historic tribute along the Skyline Trail offering stunning views and rich history in Washington's natural wonderland.
Myrtle Falls
9.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Myrtle Falls, a stunning waterfall in Mount Rainier National Park, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Edith Gorge Falls
9.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Edith Gorge Falls in Ashford, WA, a stunning natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Comet Falls
10.2 km
Explore Comet Falls: A breathtaking hiking destination in Washington's stunning wilderness, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Paradise Meadows & Skyline Trailhead
10.4 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Paradise Meadows & Skyline Trailhead, a hiking haven with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and vibrant wildflower meadows.
Essential places to dine
Paradise Inn Dining Room
10.3 km
Discover culinary delights at Paradise Inn Dining Room while soaking in breathtaking views of Mount Rainier National Park.
National Park Inn Dining Room
15.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Mount Rainier's National Park Inn Dining Room.
Summit House Restaurant
18.3 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking views at Summit House Restaurant on Crystal Mountain.
Wildberry Restaurant
21.4 km
Experience the fusion of Nepalese and American cuisine at Wildberry Restaurant near Mount Rainier National Park.
Copper Creek Inn Restaurant & Lodging
22.5 km
Discover Copper Creek Inn: A cozy retreat offering delicious dining and log cabin lodging near stunning Mount Rainier National Park.
Paradise Village Hotel & Restaurant
25.7 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and natural beauty at Paradise Village Hotel & Restaurant near Mount Rainier National Park.
Rainier BaseCamp Bar & Grill
27.0 km
Discover delightful flavors at Rainier BaseCamp Bar & Grill - your perfect dining stop near Mount Rainier National Park.
Blue Spruce Saloon And Diner
30.6 km
Experience local flavors at Blue Spruce Saloon & Diner in Packwood – where hearty meals meet friendly service amidst stunning natural beauty.
Cruiser’s Pizza
30.6 km
Discover Cruiser’s Pizza in Packwood - where delicious handcrafted pizzas meet warm hospitality amidst stunning natural beauty.
Cliff Droppers
31.0 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at Cliff Droppers in Packwood, WA – where flavor meets friendly service amidst stunning landscapes.
Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Co.
37.8 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Co., where scenic views meet delightful flavors near Mount Rainier.
Tall Timber Restaurant Lounge
41.5 km
Discover the flavors of America at Tall Timber Restaurant Lounge in Randle – your perfect retreat for delicious food and cozy accommodations.
Big Bottom Roadhouse
42.2 km
Experience the best grilled delights at Big Bottom Roadhouse in Randle, WA - where great food meets warm hospitality.
BAR BISTRO
60.5 km
Discover Bar Bistro: A Tacoma staple offering delicious American cuisine and innovative drinks in a cozy setting.
Marzano Italian Restaurant
61.6 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Marzano Italian Restaurant in Tacoma—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Longmire General Store & Mt. Rainier Natl. Park Gift Shop
16.0 km
Explore the beauty of Mount Rainier and discover unique souvenirs and snacks at the Longmire General Store, your ultimate park companion.
Tower 16
18.3 km
Explore unique souvenirs and gifts at Tower 16, the charming shop in Crystal Mountain Resort, where adventure meets creativity.
Ashford Creek Pottery
26.7 km
Explore the enchanting Ashford Creek Pottery, a unique art gallery and pottery store in Ashford, WA, showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Whittaker Mountaineering
27.0 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch equipment and expert advice at Whittaker Mountaineering in Ashford, WA.
Wapiti Outdoors
31.1 km
Discover Wapiti Outdoors in Enumclaw, WA - your go-to destination for unique gifts, delicious espresso, and delightful ice cream on the way to Mt. Rainier.
Elbe Market Country Store
37.7 km
Experience local flavors and unique souvenirs at Elbe Market Country Store, a charming stop for every traveler in Washington.
Safeway
40.2 km
Discover Enumclaw's Safeway: a grocery store packed with fresh produce, baked goods, and local flavors for every traveler!
RailCycle Mt. Rainier
41.3 km
Discover the unique blend of outdoor adventure and shopping at RailCycle Mt. Rainier, where scenic trails meet charming gifts.
Fischer's Market
42.2 km
Experience local flavors and convenience at Fischer's Market in Randle, WA - a must-visit grocery store for every traveler.
Walmart Supercenter
50.0 km
Discover the convenience of Walmart Supercenter in Puyallup, WA, where diverse products meet affordability, making shopping a breeze for every traveler.
The Outlet Collection Seattle
60.8 km
Discover unbeatable deals and a wide selection of brand-name outlets at The Outlet Collection Seattle, your ultimate shopping destination in Auburn, WA.
QFC
61.4 km
Explore QFC in Maple Valley for fresh groceries, delicious bakery treats, and a wide variety of gourmet options, all in one convenient location.
Pacific Antiques Mall
62.2 km
Explore the Pacific Antiques Mall in Tacoma, WA for an unforgettable journey through time with unique antiques, collectibles, and vintage treasures.
Tacoma Treasures
62.5 km
Explore Tacoma Treasures, a charming antique store in Washington filled with vintage clothing, collectibles, and unique thrift finds, perfect for treasure hunters.
SnowSports Northwest
63.0 km
Experience premier skiing lessons at SnowSports Northwest, where expert instructors guide you through an unforgettable winter adventure in Snoqualmie Pass.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tatoosh Cafe
10.4 km
Discover Tatoosh Cafe, where local flavors meet stunning mountain views in Ashford, Washington.
National Park Inn
15.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mount Rainier National Park while enjoying a cozy stay at the National Park Inn, a historic retreat in nature's paradise.
Snorting Elk Cellar Bar & Deli
20.1 km
Explore the flavors of Crystal Mountain at Snorting Elk Cellar Bar & Deli, where rustic charm meets culinary delights in a picturesque setting.
Alexander's Lodge At Mt Rainier
21.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and comfort at Alexander's Lodge, your gateway to the natural wonders of Mt. Rainier National Park.
Naches Tavern
31.2 km
Discover the delightful flavors and warm ambiance of Naches Tavern, the perfect spot for a satisfying meal in Enumclaw, Washington.
Carbonado Saloon
33.2 km
Experience the charm of Carbonado Saloon, a cozy bar with nostalgic decor and a wide selection of local brews in the heart of Washington.
Elbe Bar & Grill
37.7 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Elbe Bar & Grill, a cozy spot perfect for unwinding after exploring Washington's stunning landscapes.
The Rainier Bar & Grill
41.1 km
Discover the unique flavors of American cuisine at the Rainier Bar & Grill, a must-visit dining destination in Enumclaw, Washington.
Roaring Underground
41.1 km
Discover the charm of Roaring Underground, a boutique cocktail bar and restaurant in Enumclaw, WA, offering creative drinks and delicious cuisine.
The Historic Mint Restaurant & Alehouse
41.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and local brews at The Historic Mint Restaurant & Alehouse in Enumclaw, Washington.
Boots Tavern
53.6 km
Experience the local charm at Boots Tavern, a cozy bar in Black Diamond, perfect for unwinding with friends and enjoying affordable drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
JP's TAPROOM+GRILL
62.7 km
Savor the unique flavors of JP's Taproom + Grill in Kent, WA, where every meal is a celebration of taste and community.
Waffle Cabin
63.1 km
Experience the magic of handcrafted waffles in the heart of Snoqualmie Pass, where taste meets the great outdoors.
Coyote's
63.5 km
Discover Coyote's, a cozy American restaurant in Snoqualmie Pass, where hearty meals meet stunning mountain views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Brass Lantern
63.5 km
Discover Brass Lantern, Tacoma's charming grill and bar, where delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
