14 Amazing Things To Do In Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in the state of Washington in the United States. The park spans over 236,000 acres and is home to the iconic Mount Rainier, which is an active volcano that stands at 14,411 feet tall. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and wildlife watching. Whether you’re an experienced outdoors enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Mount Rainier National Park.

One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking the Wonderland Trail, which offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape. The trail is 93 miles long and circles the entire mountain, offering a unique perspective on the park’s beauty. Visitors can also explore the park’s glaciers, which number over 25 and are easily accessible from the hiking trails. Additionally, the park has several campgrounds that offer a range of amenities, from primitive campsites to RV hookups.

In the winter, visitors can hit the slopes at one of the park’s ski resorts, or snowshoe or cross-country ski on the many trails. Wildlife watching is another popular activity, as the park is home to a wide range of animals, including black bears, elk, and mountain goats. Those seeking relaxation can visit the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs or take a guided tour to learn more about the park’s history and ecology.

Overall, Mount Rainier National Park offers something for everyone, with its stunning natural beauty and wide range of activities. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to unwind, this park is definitely worth a visit.

Hike the Wonderland Trail

Hiking the Wonderland Trail is an incredible way to experience the natural beauty of Mount Rainier National Park. The trail is 93 miles long and circles the entire mountain, offering hikers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests, sparkling lakes, and rugged mountain terrain.

The trail is divided into 29 sections, and hikers can choose to do the entire trail or just a section of it. It typically takes around 10-14 days to complete the entire trail, but many hikers choose to do it in smaller sections over time. The trail is rated as strenuous, with steep ascents and descents, so it’s important to be physically fit and prepared for the challenges of the trail.

One of the highlights of the Wonderland Trail is the opportunity to see the diverse wildlife that calls Mount Rainier home. Hikers may encounter black bears, mountain goats, elk, and other wildlife along the trail, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

While hiking the entire Wonderland Trail requires careful planning and preparation, there are shorter hikes that offer a taste of the trail’s beauty. Hikers can explore the popular Spray Park Trail, which offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding wildflowers. The Skyline Trail is another great option, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Visit Paradise

If you’re looking for a stunning destination in Mount Rainier National Park, look no further than Paradise. Located on the south side of the mountain, Paradise is a popular destination for visitors, offering breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape.

In the summer months, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities in Paradise, including hiking, wildlife watching, and wildflower viewing. There are over 120 miles of hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs. The Skyline Trail is a popular choice, offering panoramic views of the mountain and the surrounding valleys. Visitors can also take guided ranger tours to learn more about the area’s natural history and ecology.

In the winter, Paradise transforms into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The park offers guided snowshoe walks, which are a great way to experience the beauty of the winter landscape.

No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to take in the stunning views of Mount Rainier from the Paradise area. On a clear day, the mountain is visible from many points in the park, but the view from Paradise is truly unparalleled. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the beauty of this iconic mountain.

Take a scenic drive 

For those who prefer to take in the beauty of Mount Rainier National Park from the comfort of their car, a scenic drive is a perfect option. The park has several scenic drives that offer stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience.

One of the most popular scenic drives in the park is the Chinook Pass Scenic Byway, which is a 50-mile drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of the park. The drive begins in Enumclaw and winds through forests, alpine meadows, and high-elevation peaks. Along the way, visitors can stop at several viewpoints to take in the stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape.

Another popular scenic drive is the Sunrise Road, which takes visitors to the highest point in the park that can be reached by vehicle. The road winds through subalpine forests and offers breathtaking views of the mountain and the surrounding valleys. Visitors can stop at the Sunrise Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s natural history and ecology, or take a guided ranger tour to explore the surrounding trails.

No matter which scenic drive you choose, be sure to take the time to stop and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape. These drives are a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty and are a perfect option for those who want to take a more leisurely approach to exploring the area.

Explore the glaciers 

Mount Rainier National Park is home to over 25 glaciers, each one unique in its size, shape, and location. Exploring these glaciers is a unique opportunity to witness the park’s geological history and experience the beauty of its unique landscape. There are several ways to explore the glaciers, including guided tours and hiking trails.

One of the most popular ways to explore the glaciers is through a guided tour. These tours offer a safe and informative way to learn about the glaciers and their importance to the park’s ecosystem. Guides provide visitors with information about the formation and movement of the glaciers, as well as the flora and fauna that call the area home. Visitors can also learn about the park’s efforts to monitor and preserve the glaciers for future generations.

For those who prefer a more active approach, hiking to the glaciers is a great option. Many of the glaciers in the park are easily accessible from the hiking trails, making them a popular destination for hikers. The Nisqually Glacier, located on the south side of the mountain, is one of the most easily accessible glaciers in the park. Visitors can hike the Nisqually Vista Trail to reach the glacier and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

It’s important to note that glacier travel can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced hikers or with the assistance of a guide. Visitors should also be aware of the potential hazards associated with glacier travel, including crevasses, falling ice, and changing weather conditions.

Exploring the glaciers in Mount Rainier National Park is a unique and memorable experience that offers a glimpse into the park’s geological history. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or hike to the glaciers, be sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty and wonder of these natural wonders.

Go camping 

Camping is a popular way to experience the natural beauty of Mount Rainier National Park. With several campgrounds to choose from, visitors can enjoy a range of amenities and activities, from primitive tent camping to RV hookups. Camping in the park is an excellent way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the park’s natural surroundings.

Mount Rainier National Park has several campgrounds to choose from, including Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River. Each campground offers a range of amenities, from basic tent sites to RV hookups with electricity and water. Most campgrounds also have restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making them a great option for families and groups.

Camping in the park also offers the opportunity to wake up to stunning views of the mountain. Many campsites offer breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing morning coffee or evening campfire.

One of the best parts of camping in the park is the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape. Hiking is a popular activity in the park, and there are several trails that can be accessed directly from the campgrounds. Visitors can spend their days exploring the park’s trails, taking in the stunning views of the mountain, and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

It’s important to note that camping in the park requires planning and preparation. Visitors should research the different campgrounds and their amenities, as well as the park’s rules and regulations regarding camping. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the potential hazards associated with camping in the wilderness, including wildlife encounters, changing weather conditions, and natural disasters.

Visit the Longmire Historic District 

If you’re interested in history and architecture, the Longmire Historic District in Mount Rainier National Park is a must-see destination. Located in the southwest corner of the park, the Longmire Historic District is home to several historic buildings, including the Longmire Inn, the National Park Inn Annex, and the Longmire Administration Building.

The Longmire Inn, built in 1916, is the heart of the historic district. It was originally a small cabin built by James Longmire, who discovered the area’s hot springs and established a resort. Over the years, the inn has been expanded and renovated, but it still retains much of its original charm and character. Today, visitors can explore the inn’s public areas, including the lobby, dining room, and gift shop.

In addition to the Longmire Inn, the historic district also includes several other buildings, including the National Park Inn Annex, which was built in 1920 as a tuberculosis sanatorium, and the Longmire Administration Building, which was built in 1927 and served as the park headquarters for many years.

Visitors can explore the Longmire Historic District on their own or take a guided tour. Guided tours are led by park rangers and provide a wealth of information about the area’s history and architecture. The tours are typically offered during the summer months and are a great way to learn more about the area’s rich history.

Aside from the historic buildings, the Longmire Historic District also offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The area is surrounded by forests and mountains, making it a picturesque destination for visitors.

Go wildlife watching 

One of the best things about visiting Mount Rainier National Park is the opportunity to see the park’s diverse wildlife up close. The park is home to a wide range of animals, including black bears, elk, and mountain goats. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife watcher or just starting out, there are plenty of opportunities to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

One of the best ways to see wildlife in Mount Rainier National Park is to take a guided tour. Park rangers and naturalists lead tours throughout the year, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the park’s wildlife and ecosystems while searching for animals. These tours are a great way to see wildlife up close and to learn more about the park’s natural history.

If you prefer to explore on your own, there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching throughout the park. Many of the park’s hiking trails offer excellent opportunities to see wildlife, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active. Some of the best trails for wildlife watching include the Skyline Trail, the Wonderland Trail, and the Nisqually Vista Trail.

When watching wildlife, it’s important to keep a safe distance and to respect the animals’ space. Visitors should never approach or feed wildlife and should always keep a safe distance. It’s also important to remember that the park’s wildlife is wild and unpredictable, so visitors should always be cautious and aware of their surroundings.

In addition to the larger animals like bears and elk, Mount Rainier is also home to a wide range of smaller animals and birds. Keep an eye out for squirrels, chipmunks, and a variety of bird species while exploring the park.

Ski or snowboard 

Mount Rainier is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with several ski resorts in the area offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier or snowboarder, there are plenty of options for you to choose from.

One of the most popular ski resorts in the area is Crystal Mountain Resort. Located just outside the national park, the resort offers a variety of terrain, including wide-open bowls, steep chutes, and tree-lined runs. There are also several terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. The resort has a variety of lifts, including a high-speed gondola that takes visitors to the summit of the mountain, offering stunning views of Mount Rainier.

Another popular ski resort in the area is White Pass Ski Area, located on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range. The resort offers a variety of terrain, including groomed runs, steep chutes, and tree skiing. The resort has a variety of lifts, including a high-speed quad that takes visitors to the summit of the mountain, offering stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape.

For those looking for a more backcountry experience, Mount Rainier National Park offers several opportunities for ski touring and backcountry skiing. There are several backcountry huts in the area that can be accessed by ski or snowshoe, offering a unique winter camping experience.

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, safety is always a top priority. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions and should always ski or ride within their abilities. It’s also important to always wear a helmet and to carry necessary safety equipment, such as avalanche beacons and probes, when skiing or snowboarding in the backcountry.

Take a guided tour 

Taking a guided tour is a great way to learn more about the history and ecology of Mount Rainier National Park. The park offers a variety of ranger-led tours and programs that are suitable for visitors of all ages and interests.

One of the most popular tours is the Paradise Inn Tour, which takes visitors through the historic Paradise Inn. The inn was built in 1916 and has been restored to its original grandeur, featuring rustic architecture and hand-crafted furnishings. During the tour, visitors can learn about the inn’s history and explore its many rooms and facilities.

For those interested in learning about the park’s natural history, the ranger-led nature walks are a great option. These walks are typically 1-2 miles long and cover a variety of topics, including geology, wildlife, and plant life. The rangers leading the tours are knowledgeable and passionate about the park, and are always happy to answer questions and share their insights.

Another popular tour is the stargazing tour, which takes visitors to some of the best stargazing locations in the park. The tours are typically offered during the summer months, when the skies are clearest. Visitors can learn about the constellations and marvel at the beauty of the night sky.

In addition to these tours, the park also offers a variety of other programs and events throughout the year, including art workshops, bird watching tours, and historical reenactments. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park and to connect with other visitors who share your interests.

Overall, taking a guided tour is a great way to deepen your appreciation for Mount Rainier National Park and to learn more about its history, ecology, and natural beauty. With so many options to choose from, there is sure to be a tour or program that is perfect for you.

Visit the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs 

Visiting the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs is a must-do activity for anyone looking to relax and unwind in Mount Rainier National Park. Located in the southeastern corner of the park, the hot springs offer a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of the park with the therapeutic benefits of hot water.

The Ohanapecosh Hot Springs are fed by natural hot springs that are heated by geothermal activity deep beneath the earth’s surface. The water is rich in minerals such as sulfur, calcium, and magnesium, which are known to have therapeutic properties for the skin and muscles.

The hot springs are located in a beautiful wooded area, and visitors can soak in the warm water while surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. The area around the hot springs is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk and deer, which can often be seen grazing nearby.

There are several pools at the hot springs, ranging in temperature from around 100 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors can relax in the pools for as long as they like, taking in the peaceful surroundings and enjoying the soothing properties of the hot water.

In addition to the hot springs, there are several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Grove of the Patriarchs Trail is a popular option, as it takes visitors through a beautiful old-growth forest and over a suspension bridge.

Go fishing 

Fishing is a popular activity in Mount Rainier National Park, offering visitors the chance to experience the beauty of the park while trying their hand at catching some of the area’s prized fish. The park boasts several lakes and streams that are home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout.

To fish in Mount Rainier National Park, visitors will need a valid Washington state fishing license, which can be purchased online or at various locations throughout the state. Once you have your license, you can head to one of the park’s many fishing areas to cast your line.

One popular fishing spot in the park is Mowich Lake, located on the northwest side of Mount Rainier. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and cutthroat trout and offers a beautiful setting for fishing. Another popular spot is the Ohanapecosh River, which runs through the southeastern corner of the park and is known for its excellent fishing opportunities.

While fishing in the park, visitors should be aware of the regulations and guidelines for fishing, including catch limits and equipment restrictions. It’s also important to practice responsible fishing practices, including properly disposing of fishing line and hooks to prevent harm to wildlife.

In addition to fishing, the park’s many streams and lakes offer opportunities for other water-based activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Whether you are an experienced angler or simply looking to spend a relaxing day by the water, fishing in Mount Rainier National Park is a wonderful way to experience the beauty and serenity of this stunning natural wonder.

Attend a ranger program 

Attending a ranger program is a great way to learn more about the natural and cultural history of Mount Rainier National Park. The park offers a wide range of ranger programs, including talks, hikes, and children’s programs, all led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic rangers.

One of the most popular ranger programs is the ranger-led hike, which allows visitors to explore the park’s trails and learn about its natural and cultural history along the way. These hikes vary in length and difficulty and can be a great way to discover new areas of the park.

For those interested in learning about specific topics, such as geology or wildlife, the park offers ranger talks and presentations. These talks are led by experts in the field and provide in-depth information on various aspects of the park’s ecosystem.

Children can also get in on the fun with the park’s Junior Ranger program. This program offers a variety of activities and challenges designed to educate and engage young visitors, from scavenger hunts to nature hikes.

No matter what your interests, attending a ranger program is a great way to enhance your visit to Mount Rainier National Park. Programs are offered throughout the year, so be sure to check the park’s calendar to see what’s available during your visit.