Mount Rainier Washington

At 14,411 feet, Mount Rainier is the tallest volcano in the 48 contiguous states and the highest mountain in Washington. On clear days, it dominates the horizon for hundreds of miles. Mount Rainier is crowned by the largest, single-peak glacier system outside of Alaska.

Longmire [elevation 2,761 ft.] is the park’s oldest developed area, located just inside the southwest Nisqually entrance. Backpackers can obtain a wilderness permit at the Longmire Wilderness Information Center. Cougar Rock Campground is located two miles north of Longmire on the road to Paradise. Paradise [5,400 ft.] is the primary destination for many visitors because of its spectacular view of the mountain, summer alpine meadows of wildflowers and deep winter snow ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The road to Paradise is open year round through the Nisqually entrance.

Ohanapecosh [1,900 ft.] is located near the southeast Stevens Canyon entrance to the park, surrounded by old-growth Douglas fir forests. Nearby is the amazing Grove of the Patriarchs. A visitor center and campground are open here from May through September.

The Carbon River entrance [1,880 ft.], on the northwest side of the park, leads to a pristine area with the most luxuriant forests and greatest rainfall. Mowich Lake [4,929 ft.], accessible by an unpaved road, offers scenic views, access to popular hiking trails and a walk-in only campground. From late May to mid-October the National Park Service staffs a ranger station at the Carbon River entrance.

The White River entrance [3,500 ft.] on the east side of the mountain is reached via State Highway410, the Mather Memorial National Scenic Byway.  Chinook Pass and Crystal Mountain are popular recreation and vacation destinations.

Sunrise [6,400 ft.] is the highest point in the park reachable by road. Its location in the “rain shadow” of Mount Rainier makes it much drier than Paradise. Visitors enjoy wildflowers, panoramic views and a day visitor center with food services in summer months.  For itineraries, activities, maps and more, see Visit Rainier.