Mount Rainier
As one of the world’s largest volcanoes, Mt. Rainier can be seen from almost 100 miles away. It is the biggest mountain in the Cascades, peeking at an impressive 14,410 feet. As you visit the Mt. Rainier National Park, you will be astounded by its size, awed by its beauty, and quite often become acquainted with the wildlife. The Park has 25 major glaciers, making it the largest collection of permanent ice in the continental United States. The Park’s main entrance, the Nisqually, is open year round, but the other entrances (open based on season/weather) are the Steven’s Canyon, the White River Entrance, the Carbon River and the one at Mowich Lake.
Things to do in Mt. Rainier
Longmire Museum- Named for James Longmire who discovered the mineral springs nearby, the museum is a great place to learn more about the area’s history. Nearby is the easy ½ mile Trail of Shadows.
The Narada Falls pull over allows you an impressive view of the 168 foot waterfall. For a closer view, be sure to trek the short path down to the viewing area.
Crystal Mountain Resort (360-663-2265) - This family friendly ski resort has a variety of hotels ranging from basic rooms to elaborate cabins. You will also find the 1,300 acres of skiable area impressive and delightful. The area gets an average 340 inches of snow annually so there is plenty of powder to enjoy. You can go downhill skiing at Silver King Mountain which has slopes for every ski level or enjoy exploring the 1,000 acres specifically for backcountry skiing. Amenities/facilities include a Kid’s Club which offers supervision, ski lessons, and lunch, restaurants, a rental shop, a skiing and snowboarding school and a day spa.
White Pass Village (509-672-3101)- Here you will find a restaurant, bar, general store, service station, rental shop, school and patrol. It has quad, triple, and double chairlifts and a rope tow. The vertical drop is 1,500 feet and there are also cross country trails.
Mt. Rainier Lodging and Camping
Camping is available year round at Sunshine Point, but all others—Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, White River and Ipsut Creek-are closed during the winter. Camping facilities/ amenities include fireplaces/fire pits, tables, water, and sanitary facilities.
Additional lodging can be found at Paradise Inn (360-569-2275), the Nisqually Lodge (888-674-3554) and the Alexander’s Country Inn (800-654-7615)
55210 238th Ave. East
Ashford, WA 98304
(360) 569-2211
http://www.nps.gov/mora
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