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Mount Rainier National Park

4.8 (306 reviews)
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Sandy B.

This is an incredibly magnificent place. Lots of trails, wildlife, and various terrains. Bring hiking boots as some areas are rocky. I loved that the rangers walk through the trails and check on people. Lots of inclines too so trekking poles are suggested, as needed. Weather can change so be prepared (backpack suggested). Have lots of water, electrolytes and snacks. We stopped at the Sunrise Visitor Center. We did the Fremont Lookout Trail (which was intense but doable). There is also the Wonderland Trail on the way back which adds 0.5 miles but takes you on a different viewpoint. Overall an A+ adventure with breathtaking sights and challenging exercise. Don't miss it!

Reflection Lake at Mt. Rainier NP
Asya Z.

There is so much serenity and quiet magic at Mt Rainier NP, that words are simply not enough to describe it all! Having arrived early in the morning through the Nisqually entrance, we immensely enjoyed visiting the following treasures with the Mt Rainier NP: Narada Falls, Reflection Lake, the Trail of Shadows and Paradise. The views were breathtaking! We had a wonderful time exploring the snow-covered mountain, the lake and the forest together! We even enjoyed a game of snowballs in Paradise during our visit in late May there!

Sa'Rah H.

Mount Rainier NPis such a gorgeous park. The drive up from Seattle was simple and didn't feel like the 2 plus hours. I was grateful for nearly perfect weather- even with the various microclimates throughout the park. I was prepared for the heavy humidity and the chilli weather. The park was "closed" due to the government shutdown and so we didn't have to pay the entrance fee which was nice. I do however feel bad for the park rangers and staff that were unable to work. We took the route of the Paradise route and stopped at the different viewpoints but there were a few closures. Reflection lake was beautiful but a bit crowded.

Wyatt S.

Very pretty everywhere you look, but Mt. Rainier itself is just breathtaking. Great hikes and great amenities too.

Enjoying Each Momen T.

Hike through Mt Reinier meadows, immersed with lush trees, frosty streams, chipmunks running free, animals in their natural habitat. The summer snow met us at the start of the vertical climb, with just the right texture for snowy trek towards the summit. Perfect weather greeted us for the perfect birthday adventure, breathtaking views & amazing experience

Nisqually River
Travis T.

Every year I pick one or two national parks that I have never been to for vacation. This year I decided to fly to Washington and travel to both Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks. My Dad lived north of the Seattle area for many years, and I would travel to see him. I would always marvel at Mount Rainier when flying over it by plane or seeing it from afar while in Seattle. Its snow-capped peak and overall size are incredible sites to see. Mount Rainier is a 14,410-foot active volcano in Washington's Cascade Range. It is the tallest mountain in Washington State. My Dad never had any interest in seeing this mountain up close, so I made my own trip out here to visit the park and do some hiking. I also ran a 5K that was going on in nearby Ashford to add a little fun to my trip. President William McKinley signed a bill authorizing the creation of Mount Rainier National Park in 1899. It is the nation's fifth national park. There are many cities around Mount Rainier National Park that you can stay in. I stayed in Packwood, which is southeast of the park. I took an overnight flight to Seattle-Tacoma and drove straight to the park where I ended up sleeping in my rental truck for a few hours until the sun came up. Mount Rainier National Park now requires a timed entry reservation made in advance during peak hours. I had got there early enough to avoid having to wait in the timed entry line. I began my day hiking to base of Mount Rainier on the popular 5.5-mile Skyline Loop Trail. It was a beautiful trail full of wildflowers, waterfalls, snow and wildlife. Marmots were running around all over and providing all sorts of entertainment for us hikers. The Skyline Trail begins and ends next to the visitor center in Paradise. At the visitor center, you can grab a bite to eat and check out exhibits that provide some history and information about this beautiful park. I spent much of my time driving around Mount Rainier National Park and enjoying its breathtaking views. The park has four main entrances - Nisqually, Carbon River, White River/Sunrise and Stevens Canyon. I was able to check out several waterfalls while exploring the park. Narada Falls was probably my favorite. One beautiful place to check out is Reflection Lake where you can see a reflection of Mount Rainier in the lake. Longmire is another popular destination that has lodging, camping, food, a visitor center and is the location of the park's original National Park Service Administration Building (which is now an information center). Ohanapecosh is an area in the park that has many campsites. I did make time to drive to Sunrise to get a different view of Mount Rainier. Sunrise is the highest point in the park that is accessible by vehicle at an elevation of 6,400 feet. When I visit national parks, I try to do a hike each day while I am in the park. There are 168 trails in Mount Rainier National Park. So I had to be selective in how many I could do because of time. After hiking the Skyline Loop Trail, I ended up doing some shorter day hikes like the Twin Firs Loop Trail and Bench & Snow Lakes Trail. I also did some hiking in the Sunrise area. There are so many trails to choose from at various lengths and difficulty. There is no Wi-Fi in Mount Rainier National Park. So I had to rely mostly on paper maps to get around. But if you do need Wi-Fi, you can stop at any of the three visitor centers in the park to connect. There are also park rangers on hand who are very helpful and will answer any questions that you may have. You will find restrooms, merchandise and food options at the visitor centers. I am so glad that I finally made my way to this beautiful national park to see this incredible mountain. Hiking the Skyline Trail and seeing some of the waterfalls were the highlights for me on this trip. Flying to Washington to spend some time in Mount Rainier National Park is an experience that I won't forget. I look forward to a return visit someday.

A beautiful lake!
Kathryn Y.

Since moving to WA I have discovered the amazing trails in Mt. Rainer. It's truly a magical place. The trails are definitely challenging and I highly recommend plenty of water. And bring your mosquito repellent in case the trail is a bit busy with these pesky bugs. Sunscreen, water and snacks and enjoy nature. An America The Beautiful Pass works for this hike as we were parked literally right outside the park boundary bit the hike took us inside the park. A day pass for parking inside the boundary is recommended. Get out there!! SYOY!

Mt. Rainer
PJ M.

We drove down to Mount Rainer National Park from Seattle. It was a nice drive once you get out of Seattle as the traffic is bad. They don't have anywhere to expand the highways and one of the three lanes is a HOV lane. Once we got close the scenery drastically changed to heavily wooded. The roads and drive were nice. Once we got up to the info area and scenic viewing the sights were breathless. Several opportunities to walk up some of the trails but we passed and hung around the center getting a bite to eat and a drink. Was a great place to relax, take in the sights and get some great pics. The snow covered peaks are just awesome. Weather was great.

A warning ticket for parking on the side of the road, though many ppl do it.
Quinn N.

Arrived midday mid-June and boy was parking PACKED! Wish they built a much larger parking lot. Beware getting a warning ticket for parking on the side of the road, though many people do it. Even on a (foggy) cloudy day, there's a good chance you can still spot the legendary Mt Rainier (14,400 ft). Boy was there so much snow in June. Crampons aren't necessary, but you'll want to wear some form of waterproof shoes.

MemysefandI ..

Great park! I just had one day so I chose sky line trail. Got at the park around 12noon. I would say 20 min to enter. If you want to go to paradise, just drive to the visitor center which is 20 miles away. Parking is very limited but I was lucky enough and found a spot very easily. The hike is hard but not impossible. Did in 2.5h 4 stars because signaling is not their strength and gift shop was way overpriced Also, staff at the restaurant were rude

Shelly and another Ranger wishing me luck
Christy K.

What incredible people! I was so fortunate when I called the ranger station several times in preparation for my trip and was always given incredible help. Because of this, I was prepared when I came in for a Wonderland Trail walk-up permit. Shelly helped me by tediously organizing my campsites and helping with decisions about where to go, areas of potential danger, and tons of other advice. These rangers are true examples of the best America has to offer.

Ohanapecosh River
Alyssa A.

What an incredible experience visiting Mount Rainier National Park - I don't even know where to start... If you're able to, camp in the park. We camped for a couple nights at Ohanapecosh Campground, and it was wonderful. The forest is beautiful, peaceful, and calm. The perfect place to reset and enjoy nature. The Ohanapecosh visitor center is at the beginning of the campground - perfect for planning your day's adventures. Definitely incorporate Skyline Loop in Paradise into your trip - no way will you be disappointed. Here, we found the most picturesque views that were better than any postcard or picture you find online. Myrtle Falls is an easy hike and is absolutely gorgeous. Once you get to the top of Skyline Loop, you will get the most breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and its valley. Well-worth the effort of this 5.5 mile hike. The Paradise visitor center is going to be the biggest one with plenty of rangers, a good bookstore, and a small cafe. The Fremont Overlook Trail in Sunrise is going to be your other great bet. Definitely strenuous, but the magnificent views once you get to the top ... All you want to do is sit on a rock and enjoy. The Sunrise visitor center is smaller than Paradise, but still has wonderful rangers and a small bookstore. Plan ahead if you're visiting Sunrise - they do metered entrances so there's a set number of visitors. If they're at capacity, they wait for a car to leave before another car can enter. Reflection is a great, quick stop - especially when the weather is good. All the visitor centers have free WiFi - great for planning and plugging routes into maps as the cell service is (as expected) horrible. They also all have clean bathrooms - always a plus. You will definitely enjoy any time spent at Mt Rainier National Park. Explore and have fun!

Mount Rainier - Panorama Point trail
Kim R.

Another fun visit to Rainier...once we got through the SW gate that is. Insanely busy to enter this past Saturday (Oct) morning. We waited an indecent amount of time, and the Paradise area trails and parking were nuts. But, a lovely fall weekend...should be expected. This visit we stayed at Cougar Rock Campground: partially open for FCFS this, the last weekend of the season. Clean, with a decent amount of privacy between sites. We took the Carter/Madcap Falls access trail from the campground to the falls. Beautiful and fun mushroom covered trail that was MUCH less busy than the Paradise trails. Loved. We also took the Lakes Loop Trail. Very busy area, although most people were simply parking for the pics and not on the trail. Fun trail, small elevation gains, so you get a nice workout...but stunning colors and amazing views from the overlook above the lakes. We also decided to join the masses at Paradise for the Glacier/Panorama Point trail. Packed with visitors all the way, but epic and colorful views throughout. A few cute critters along the way too. Paradise food court was still open this weekend. Nice to have a few options for quick bites after the hike. Fall on Rainier = stunning...stunning AND packed.

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Mount Rainier National Park Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Mount Rainier National Park

This upcoming week it's supposed to be 70/80 and it's the middle of May, towards the end. Is this a good time to go? And would this be good for a day trip as well? I live an hour away, or would it be impossible to do only for a day?

I think your questions have lots of room for personal preference. Are you okay with being around a lot of people? Is there a specific section of the park you'd like to see/hike? Is this your first time there? I live in Seattle and have done the park… 

Snow chain rentals?

Whittaker Mountaineering in Ashford, WA. I actually think a few of the outfitters along with Whittaker rent chains in Ashford. I'd call first to make sure they have the right sized chains for your vehicle & make your reservation.

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Review Highlights - Mount Rainier National Park

“One beautiful place to check out is Reflection Lake where you can see a reflection of Mount Rainier in the lake.”

Mentioned in 25 reviews

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Mount Fremont Lookout Trail - Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

Mount Fremont Lookout Trail

4.8(5 reviews)
5.0 mi

One of my favorite hikes in Mt Rainier. The hike is rough, but the end is 100% worth it…read more You'll access the Sourdough Ridge Trail about 600 feet from the visitor center, take it for about 1.1 miles, you'll hit Frozen Lake, and then it's another 1.3 miles up to the Overlook. You will get the most incredible views of Mt Rainier. The initial start of the Sourdough Trail is steep and strenuous, but give it about 0.2 miles - it's going to level out and be easy until you get to Frozen Lake. Don't hold your breath for Frozen Lake. We came in September - there was nothing frozen, no snow, and it was more like a small pond. Maybe it looks pretty in early spring when the park re-opens? Anywho, the trail is definitely strenuous. Pace yourself, take breaks if you need it, and drink lots of water (and make sure to BRING plenty of water). The overlook is incredible, and the views of Mt Rainier are breathtaking. The ranger station wasn't staffed while we were there, but you could climb up it for a better view. Otherwise, take a seat on a rock, eat some snacks, and enjoy! Overall, this hike will probably leave you feeling a bit wrecked, but it is well-worth all the effort.

Arrived 5:50am Saturday in mid September. It was also free national park day. The last hour or so…read moreto Sunrise Visitor Center (the trailhead) from Portland area is long and meandering and dark. I recommend downloading an offline map since there's no service. I wanted to get to the trailhead before sunrise. Once I got to Sunrise, the parking lot was 20-25% full and there were several parties starting their hike as well. I wish I brought a headlamp because it was pitch black. The bathrooms were open and the toilet flushed and the sinks had soap still. The trail is right behind the bathrooms. It took about an hour to get to the top. It's pretty rocky and most parts it's narrow so I would recommend hiking shoes. I was warming up because of the hike but at the lookout, it was so cold! Bring gloves, a hat and layers. The forecast said it would be cloudy. I checked Windy.com to see the cloud patterns before I left and there was an opening. I've been to Mt Rainier on a clear day but on a partially cloudy day it was just as nice.

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Mount Fremont Lookout Trail - Chipmunk Visitor

Chipmunk Visitor

Mount Fremont Lookout Trail
Mount Fremont Lookout Trail - 7am

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7am

Nisqually Vista Trail

Nisqually Vista Trail

4.8(4 reviews)
5.5 mi

Hey if anyone is looking for a real simple trail offering some pretty terrific views of Mt. Rainier…read morepeak...then I highly recommend coming here to Nisqually Vista Trail. It's located in the smaller parking lot area just a 1/2 mile from the main section of the Paradise area at Mt. Rainier. To explain again...when driving up the road towards the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center and all the primary trails at Mt. Rainier....you actually want to turn into the first parking lot you'll come upon. It's quite visible as you're driving and you make a left handed turn into the lot. Yes and remember, it's the lot 1/2 mile before the main exploring area of Paradise. When getting out of the car, Nisqually Vista Trail was so easy to find. I noticed the trailhead right away. This path was more of a walkway than anything else, going in a round trip loop for 1.1 miles. It can't get any more straightforward than that. And there was no elevation climb at all. The reason why I'm giving Nisqually Vista Trail 5 stars is because it deserves recognition for offering uninterrupted and statuesque views of Mt. Rainier and it's snow covered peak! I visited here back in the month of August and yeah there was still snow surrounding the top of Mt. Rainier...and I'd say about 1/2 - 3/4's of the way along Nisqually Trail...I stumbled upon multiple overlooks peering out into the distance of Mt. Rainier...in all it's glory! I thought to myself, why would this trail be so empty and quiet? I'm not sure why...though I guess...most tourists would prefer going to the big parking lot section at Paradise where you're offered numerous hiking trails including moderate and strenuous hikes to get real up close views of the mountain. But...sometimes closer is not always better. From the overlooks here....I had multiple moments to sit down on the wall's ledge and bask at how beautiful Mt. Rainier's iconic peak appeared in the background. And for coming to Nisqually in early afternoon, I had no issues with the sun. I think that's real reason why I'm writing about Nisqually Vista Trail. For an easy 1.1 mile loop...the appearance of Mt. Rainier was quite memorable. So...for those folks who may be interested in a path/trail perfect for families or anyone who'd rather not trek around the elevated trails in the Paradise section....I'd absolutely try and convince you to come here. My pictures were very memorable and I'm happy to be passing along this recommendation to everyone searching for the most efficient options on how to explore around Mt. Rainier National Park.

For a 1.2 mile this trail will surely be an ultimate favorite for families with strollers and…read moregrandparents who just wanna have an easy stroll yet still have that gorgeous view. Also a paved trail this one will made you stroll in loop at the same time do some photowalk. It is so gorgeous in here and as a bonus, you get to see part of Mt. Rainier in several viewpoints. The only cons in here is that there's a lot of bugs that flies around. And if you keep talking there's a possibility that they'll fly straight inside your mouth. These flies also keep coming to you as you stroll so if I were you, better carry some bug spray when you plan to hike here during summertime. PS: for those hardcore hikers, this might bored you. So skip this one or you can keep going to its connected trails available at Paradise Area located Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center. Mahalo for reading and happy juandering fellow yeeps!

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Nisqually Vista Trail
Nisqually Vista Trail
Nisqually Vista Trail - Picturesque Mt. Rainier from one of the many overlooks at Nisqually Vista.

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Picturesque Mt. Rainier from one of the many overlooks at Nisqually Vista.

RMI Expeditions

RMI Expeditions

3.0(40 reviews)
5.7 mi

I had my second very positive experience with RMI this past month. The biggest takeaway is that…read morethis is a service for people who are seriously prepared for an enormous mental and physical challenge - if you're looking for something wild to do without months of preparation, regardless of the trip you choose, you might feel a little put off with RMI. Rainier IS something you can do with no previous climbing experience, but that doesn't mean you can just show up the day-of and expect to be fine. "No experience needed" doesn't mean no training is required. They make it clear that you need to be in the best physical condition of your life to execute these trips. I am someone who wants to pursue mountaineering as a lifelong hobby but doesn't have a climbing community of my own to go with. As a result, finding a Rainier concessioner was a natural choice. And even though it's nerve-wracking to climb with a bunch of pro guides and strangers, I felt like I found the type of community I've been dreaming of! I'm a female climber and my first experience was less positive because I didn't feel very included as a woman, but this second trip was amazing. I think inclusivity can often depend on the attitudes of the guides. Shoutout to Dominic, Sam, Marissa, and Rylee for making sure I felt strong and capable. No notes. I had the BEST time with them! There are other Rainier vendors (or guide services for other mountains) that are known to be a bit more gentle and flexible in their approach and pacing of their trips. Consider those alternatives if you're not craving absolute grit. No judgement, it's a personal preference. All in all, putting on multi-day climbs with clients of all backgrounds and dangerous terrain is no small feat, but I believe RMI does an incredible job at this. For as long as I'm climbing and able, I will choose RMI again.

I've had much better guiding experiences elsewhere. I did not finish Ranier. Although I was working…read morehard aerobically, I turned around mostly due to anxiety. I did not feel safe with my guide Hannah. For example, I asked for 30 seconds to breathe and she denied it and we kept going. We were not in a dangerous area. So, I decided to turn around. After about a minute of waiting for another rope team to go down I felt ready to keep going. I was not gassed at all, but I did not safe continuing with a guide who completely stonewalled the requests of her clients. I am very frustrated because I did not give it my all. I had plenty of gas left in the tank unlike others who turned around and were stumbling down. I just felt so demoralized by the continued emphasis that it only gets harder and we cannot slow down or stop for even a second that I chose to turn back. I feel confident I could have summited with another guiding company. I have done enough mountains (10+ guided summits including 7k meters) to know that that the pace we were going did in fact have time for me to take a 30 second breath break. Another option could have been to start one hour earlier to go 10% slower on the route--other guided climbs I have done choose starting time based on client pace as well as conditions, rather than rigidly holding to pace policy. I feel like this is the cattle car company that just wants maximum throughput booking trips and rental gear, and if you're not completely on their pace there is no flexibility to even breathe for 30 seconds. I did not feel looked after as an individual, just as one more unit in their system. I have never before wanted a refund on a guided climb, even when I didn't summit before (food poisoning). This experience makes me wish for one for the first time ever. I had a much better experience with Alpine Ascents International a month ago on Mt. Baker. They set a pace appropriate for the group and had empathy and responsiveness when another two clients on a rope team near mine were struggling. I recommend looking at that company as an alternative as they have a concession on Ranier as well. Update to add: I spoke to an AAI guide at camp after coming down. They left an hour earlier than our team did and their climbers came down after ours. So presumably a more manageable rate.

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RMI Expeditions
RMI Expeditions
RMI Expeditions

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Mount Rainier National Park - parks - Updated October 2026

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