Mount Rainier National Park Washington

A swath of color punctuates the reflection of the glacier-capped volcanic mountain

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Spring

0 - 8 ºC

Summer

6 - 16 ºC

Fall

-5 - 6 ºC

Winter

-5 - 1 ºC

January

-5 - 1 ºC

February

-6 - 1 ºC

March

-5 - 2 ºC

April

-3 - 4 ºC

May

1 - 9 ºC

June

2 - 12 ºC

July

6 - 17 ºC

August

7 - 17 ºC

September

5 - 14 ºC

October

0 - 8 ºC

November

-3 - 3 ºC

December

-6 - 0 ºC

Major Airports:

Seattle-Tacoma (SEA)

Portland (PDX)

Tri-Cities/Pasco (PSC)
States:

Washington

The most prominent feature of Seattle's skyline

Mountaineering enthusiasts can test their climbing skills in Mount Rainier National Park while those who prefer two feet on the ground can hike nearly 420 kilometers of maintained trails. On the 150-kilometer-long Wonderland Trail that circles Mount Rainier, for example, hikers might spot a black bear or mountain lion as they traverse through lowland forests, valleys and alpine areas. There are, of course, less strenuous ways to enjoy this Washington park. Attend a ranger’s campfire chat, see a show at the Cougar Rock Campground Amphitheater and hear tales about the early days at the 1916 Longmire Museum.

Rising 4,400 meters above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. Despite being an active volcano, Mount Rainier is covered in glaciers that feed six major rivers. A short drive southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park offers excellent opportunities for scenic drives, hiking and mountain climbing. (On a clear day, you can see the peak from the city center.)

In the spring, a colorful array of wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Most roads are open from late May to early October, and all provide stunning views and access to a variety of hiking trails and other sites. Although it may be tempting to try and experience the whole park in one day, staying longer allows you to discover all the park has to offer.