Best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park

Updated April 27th, 2022
Best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier is a 14,411-foot volcano in Washington state. The mountain is the most topographically prominent mountain in the contiguous United States and the Cascade Volcanic Arc, with a height of 4,392 feet (1,438 meters) above the surrounding terrain. Mount Rainier is famous for its large amount of glacial ice, with 36 square miles (93 km2) of glaciers, the most of any U.S. volcano. The summit of the mountain is also the highest point in the state of Washington.

Mount Rainier is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and skiers. The mountain has over 26 miles (42 km) of maintained trails for hiking and climbing. In the winter, the mountain is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.

Other popular tourist attractions in Mount Rainier include the Paradise Visitor Center, which is the most popular visitor center in the park, and the Mt. Rainier Gondola, which takes visitors to the summit of the mountain. Other popular activities in the park include camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.

1. Hiking

A visitor hiking in Mount Rainier experiences beautiful views, fresh air, and a sense of solitude.

2. Camping

When camping in Mount Rainier National Park, visitors will experience a breathtaking view of the mountain and the surrounding area. They will also have the opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness, as well as the convenience of having a nearby campground.

3. Fishing

When someone fishes in Mount Rainier, they'll likely be spending a lot of time on the river bank, casting their line into the water and watching as the fish swim by. They may also be hiking to different spots along the river to find the best fishing spots.

4. Hunting

A visitor's experience when they hunting in Mount Rainier is they would see a great variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, mountain goats, and black bears. Hunting in Mount Rainier is a great way to experience the great outdoors and get close to some of the country's most iconic animals.

5. Climbing

A visitor's experience when climbing Mount Rainier is a unique and memorable experience. The climb is challenging and can be dangerous, but the views are worth it. The summit is a surreal and breathtaking experience that is unlike anything else.

6. Biking

When someone bikes in Mount Rainier, they will feel the wind in their hair and the sun on their skin. They will be surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountain, and will feel the thrill of the ride.

7. Wildlife watching

If a visitor is Wildlife watching in Mount Rainier, they will likely experience an awe-inspiring and mesmerizing experience. The scenic views and wildlife that can be seen from the park are truly something special.

8. Photography

A visitor's experience when they photograph in Mount Rainier would be enjoying the natural beauty of the area while capturing images of the majestic mountain.

9. Visiting the ranger station

If a visitor visits the ranger station in Mount Rainier, they would likely experience a great sense of adventure. The station would likely be bustling with activity as rangers would be on hand to answer any questions a visitor might have about the park. Visitors would also be able to see exhibits showcasing the park's wildlife and natural history.

10. Hike to the top of Mount Rainier

When someone hikes to the top of Mount Rainier, they are likely to experience a number of different emotions. They may feel excited and thrilled at being so close to the summit, or they may feel a sense of accomplishment after making it to the top. Regardless of the individual's feelings, most visitors report feeling exhilarated and inspired once they reach the summit.

11. View the wildflowers at Paradise

When someone visits Paradise in Mount Rainier, they may see a variety of wildflowers blooming. The colors of the flowers may be bright and cheerful, or they may be softly hued in shades of blue, violet, and pink. Some of the flowers may be close to the ground, while others may be taller and reach up to six feet in height. The visitor may be able to smell the flowers as they walk through the park, and they may be able to see the flowers in the distance.

12. Take a scenic drive down the Steven's Canyon Road

If someone takes a scenic drive down the Steven's Canyon Road in Mount Rainier, they might feel an adrenaline rush when driving up the winding canyon. They might feel a sense of awe as they look out at the lush forests and the majestic Mount Rainier towering in the distance. They might feel a sense of peacefulness as they drive through the winding road.

13. Visit the waterfalls at Ohanapecosh

When a visitor visits the waterfalls at Ohanapecosh in Mount Rainier, they may feel awestruck by the natural beauty of the cascading water. The rushing water may make them feel refreshed, and the lush surroundings may inspire them to take a moment to relax.

14. Take a hike on the Wonderland Trail

Visitors might take a hike on the Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier if they are looking for a scenic hike that leads through the beautiful landscape of the park. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and visitors will be able to explore some of the most beautiful scenery in the park.