Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier is a towering stratovolcano and active volcanic peak in Washington State, surrounded by a national park of dramatic glaciers, alpine meadows, and dense forests.
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Mount Rainier
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Pacific Northwest |
| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
| County | Pierce and Lewis County |
| District | Mount Rainier National Park |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 46.8523 |
| Longitude | -121.7603 |
| Maps |
11:58 AM LOCAL TIMEMount Rainier rises to 4,392 meters (14,411 ft), making it the highest peak in Washington and a challenging destination for climbers and hikers. The surrounding Mount Rainier National Park offers a diverse landscape of gleaming glaciers, volcanic valleys, and subalpine wildflower meadows. Visitors come for year-round recreation: summer hikes beneath panoramic views, early fall photography of fall colors, and winter snow sports on established areas. Key destinations include Paradise, Longmire, and the Skyline Trail. The park’s climate varies heavily with elevation, requiring layered gear and awareness of rapidly changing mountain weather.
Where to Stay
Mount Rainier National Park is a colossal alpine stage where glacier-carved valleys meet wildflower meadows beneath a towering volcanic peak.
Just outside the park's southwest entrance, Ashford is a practical base with quick access to park entrances and a cluster of lodges and eateries. Lodging ranges from budget motels to standard inns, with dining options within a short walk or drive. It's a solid base for day trips to Paradise and Longmire.
Inside the park's western corridor, Longmire is a historic lodge hub with the National Park Inn and surrounding cabins. It offers a quiet base with easy access to short, scenic hikes and the Nisqually River’s lower falls. A great choice for travelers who want comfort inside the park with ranger programs nearby.
Paradise sits at the heart of Mount Rainier’s alpine meadows and is renowned for its expansive views. Lodging within the park is limited to the Paradise Inn and nearby cabin options, making this a premium base with direct access to high-elevation trails and spectacular scenery. Reserve early for the best alpine experience.
Packwood sits along the park’s eastern gateway and offers budget-friendly cabins, motels, and inns with easy access to trailheads and local dining. It’s a practical stop for hikers and visitors pursuing Sunrise and the park’s eastern trails.
Map Resources
Mount Rainier National Park Map
Park Map for Mount Rainier National Park showing trails, roads, facilities, and viewpoints.
Useful Products
We think these products might be useful on your journey!
Category: Footwear
Price: $70 – $180
All-day comfort on wet, rocky trails in Mount Rainier National Park with durable uppers and grippy soles. Keeps feet dry and steady on uneven terrain; a versatile essential for mountain hikes.
Category: Apparel
Price: $40 – $150
Packable shell for sudden showers on day trips to Paradise and other areas of Mount Rainier National Park. Blocks wind while layering well with mid-layers.
Category: Apparel
Price: $25 – $120
Warm mid-layer for chilly mornings at Sunrise or Longmire. Breathable and quick-drying for all-season use in the park.
Category: Apparel
Price: $15 – $60
Lightweight warmth without bulk for high-elevation hikes around Mount Rainier National Park. Great as a base layer on windy ridges.
Category: Apparel
Price: $8 – $25
Merino wool socks prevent blisters on long approaches to Paradise and other park trails. Cushioned and breathable for comfort.
Category: Pack
Price: $20 – $90
Lightweight daypack with a hydration sleeve for day hikes in Mount Rainier National Park; keeps essentials organized and accessible.
Category: Gear
Price: $15 – $70
Adjustable trekking poles add stability on uneven trails near Rainier, useful on snowfields around Sunrise and other areas.
Category: Lighting
Price: $15 – $60
Hands-free lighting for dawn climbs or late return from Mount Rainier National Park; compact, bright, and long-lasting.
Category: Electronics
Price: $15 – $50
Keeps devices charged on hikes to Paradise or Longmire; reliable backup power for cameras and phones.
Category: Optics
Price: $60 – $400
Spot wildlife from overlooks in Mount Rainier National Park; lightweight and easy to carry on longer treks.
Category: Maps
Price: $6 – $25
Waterproof map case helps you navigate rugged terrain around Paradise and Longmire; protects against rain and splashes.
Category: Care
Price: $8 – $25
Quick-dry towel for post-hike cleanup after rivers or alpine lakes near Mount Rainier National Park.
Category: Skincare
Price: $6 – $15
Essential sun protection at high elevations—great near Sunrise and other sun-exposed sections of Mount Rainier National Park.
Category: Skincare
Price: $3 – $5
Keeps lips protected on windy ridges around Mount Rainier National Park; small but mighty during winter hikes.
Category: Hydration
Price: $15 – $50
Stays cold on long approaches to Mount Rainier National Park; keeps you hydrated on chilly mornings.
Category: Cooking
Price: $20 – $80
Compact stove for quick meals after a day of exploring in Mount Rainier National Park; easy to pack and use.
Category: Cooking
Price: $25 – $60
Lightweight pots and pans for backcountry meals near Mount Rainier National Park; pairs well with a portable stove.
Category: Safety
Price: $8 – $25
Compact kit for minor injuries on rugged trails around Paradise and other park areas.
Category: Protect
Price: $6 – $20
Protects your phone near alpine streams or rain showers in Mount Rainier National Park; ideal for photo ops.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:46 AM