Overview
Mount Rainier, also known as Tahoma or Tacoma, is an active stratovolcano in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest. It's the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States and is a prominent landmark in the Seattle skyline.
It is the highest mountain in Washington and is a major draw for hikers and climbers.
Location
Address
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Neighborhood: Mount Rainier National Park
Coordinates
46.852200, -121.760600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
July-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
clear views, fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • wildflowers
- • waterfalls
summer
warm to hot
- • all trails open
- • warm weather
autumn
cool to cold
- • fall colors
- • cool weather
winter
cold, snowy
- • snow sports
- • winter landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check trail conditions
- Prepare for weather changes
- Carry bear spray
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • altitude sickness
- • weather changes
- • wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: limited, nearest hospital 1 hour away
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
hiking gear, layers, sturdy boots, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • 1 month
- • official website
- • 24 hours
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Mount Rainier NP Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Trail maps, Real-time conditions, Park news
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Distance: 80 miles
Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours
From City Center
Distance: 80 miles
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, diverse hiking opportunities, sense of adventure
Historical Significance: Sacred to local Native American tribes, first climbed in 1870, established as a national park in 1899
Insider Tips
- Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds
- Sunrise at Paradise is magical
- The National Park Inn has great views and history
Local Recommendations
- • Try the huckleberry ice cream at the Paradise Inn
- • Ask rangers for trail advice
- • Visit the Longmire Museum for historical context
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Paradise
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Wide shots of the mountain
Result: Stunning mountain views
Nisqually Vista Trail
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the glacier and waterfall
Result: Breath-taking waterfall and glacier shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad
Distance: 15 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Scenic Railway
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Distance: 20 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: National Forest
Crystal Mountain Resort
Distance: 25 miles
Walking: N/A
Type: Ski Resort
Reviews
Based on 2,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Start early"
- "Bring layers"
- "Don't miss Paradise"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (4)
Quick Info
Available Tours
15
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,500
Adult Entry
$30