Mount Rainier National Park
Est. 1899Pacific Maritime Alpine

Mount Rainier National Park

Washington, USA

Quick Answer & Key Takeaways

Mount Rainier National Park located in Washington was established in 1899. Characterized by its pacific maritime alpine climate, the park features signature highlights such as 14,411-foot glaciated Mount Rainier summit, Paradise subalpine wildflower meadows in full August bloom, The 93-mile Wonderland Trail encircling the entire volcano. Entry fee: $30 per private vehicle (valid for 7 days); timed-entry reservation system active during peak summer midday hours.. Best time to visit: July through September when alpine snowpack melts and subalpine wildflower meadows peak..

Established: 1899 • Climate: Pacific Maritime Alpine
Entry fees: $30 per private vehicle (valid for 7 days); timed-entry reservation system active during peak summer midday hours.
Best time to visit: July through September when alpine snowpack melts and subalpine wildflower meadows peak.
Highlights: 14,411-foot glaciated Mount Rainier summit, Paradise subalpine wildflower meadows in full August bloom, The 93-mile Wonderland Trail encircling the entire volcano, Historic Paradise Inn rustic stone architecture

Park Ecology & Landscape

Mount Rainier National Park preserves the magnificent landscapes surrounding Tahoma, an active glacier-clad stratovolcano that dominates the horizon of the Pacific Northwest. The park contains 26 major glaciers, 260 miles of maintained trails including the famous 93-mile Wonderland Trail, historic rustic park architecture at Paradise and Longmire, and ancient old-growth forests with Douglas firs and western redcedars over 1,000 years old.

Key Natural Highlights

  • 14,411-foot glaciated Mount Rainier summit
  • Paradise subalpine wildflower meadows in full August bloom
  • The 93-mile Wonderland Trail encircling the entire volcano
  • Historic Paradise Inn rustic stone architecture
Trail Corridor Access

Explore Verified Trails in Mount Rainier National Park

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Planning & Permits

Best Time to Visit

July through September when alpine snowpack melts and subalpine wildflower meadows peak.

Entry Fees

$30 per private vehicle (valid for 7 days); timed-entry reservation system active during peak summer midday hours.

Backcountry Permits

Mountaineering pass required for travel above 10,000 ft; wilderness permit required for all backcountry camping.

CavingClub.org Field Safety BulletinAlways carry the Ten Essentials, 3 lights for caves, and decontaminate gear for bat protection.
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