63 National Park Challenge: Mount Rainier National Park
Some places take your breath away, and Mount Rainier National Park is one of those places! Known for its glaciers, subalpine meadows, and miles of scenic hiking trails, this park offers something spectacular in every direction.
As travelers, we’ve flown over this majestic mountain countless times on our way into Seattle (SEA). We’d glance out the airplane window and catch ourselves daydreaming about what it would be like to hike that majestic park. On clear days, you can even see Mount Rainier from Seattle, its presence both humbling and magnetic.
As part of our 63 National Park Challenge, we couldn’t wait to discover if the real-life experience would live up to our imagination from above.
It was even better than imagined!
Join us as we explore the breathtaking beauty, wonderful trails, and unforgettable wildlife at Mt. Rainier National Park.
Getting There: From Seattle to Mount Rainier
Flying into Seattle is the easiest way to begin your adventure to Mount Rainier National Park if you don’t live locally. From the city, it’s just over a two-hour drive, depending on traffic and your chosen route.
For road-trip lovers, the drive itself is part of the experience. Mount Rainier gradually grows larger on the horizon, growing more impressive with every mile and building anticipation for the experience ahead.
If your schedule allows, take a moment to stop and admire one of the many waterfalls along the way. There is so much natural beauty to enjoy in Washington State!
Whether you’re planning a day hike or a multi-day exploration, the drive from Seattle is scenic, straightforward, and utterly breathtaking!
Mount Rainier Visitor Centers
With three main visitor centers, Longmire, Sunrise, and Paradise, we chose to begin our adventure at the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center in Paradise. It felt like the perfect place to start our day. It’s a gateway to some of the park’s most scenic hikes, including the famous Skyline Loop Trail.
The visitor center is more than just a starting point; it’s a hub of information.
You’ll find helpful maps, trail guides, and exhibits about the park’s glaciers and wildlife. Friendly rangers are also at the ready to answer any questions.
It’s the perfect place to prepare for the day ahead.
Hiking the Skyline Loop Trail
From the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center, we set out on the Skyline Loop Trail, one of Mount Rainier’s most iconic hikes. At 5.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,781 feet, AllTrails rates this trail as hard, and while it was definitely a workout, the trail’s careful maintenance made the climb manageable and enjoyable.
The hike begins with a steady incline through lush alpine meadows, dotted with wildflowers.
As we climbed higher, the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and cascading glaciers made every step worth it.
Wildlife and Nature
One of the joys of hiking in Mount Rainier National Park is the chance to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat.
We were delighted to spot a Hoary Marmot, a plump, furry little creature that immediately stole our attention.
At first, we weren’t even sure what we were looking at, and that’s where the SEEK app came in handy. By using our camera, the app identified the animal for us.
Panorama Point: Views Worth the Climb
One of the highlights of the trail is Panorama Point, sitting at an elevation of 6,800 feet.
From here, the views are breathtaking!
Glaciers, jagged peaks, and valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.
Standing at Panorama Point, it’s impossible not to feel a mix of accomplishment and awe.
The Skyline Loop Trail is challenging, yes, but it’s also a perfect example of why Mount Rainier National Park captivates hikers. Every twist of the trail offers new scenery, wildlife encounters, and moments that make you pause and soak it all in.
If the Skyline Loop feels too challenging, don’t worry, multiple other trails offer breathtaking views without quite the same elevation gain. Check them out on the AllTrails app to see which one is best for you. We recommend using this app as it provides distances, elevations, and other helpful details to help you choose the right hike.
Trail Tips & What to Bring
Hiking the Skyline Loop Trail is incredibly rewarding, but preparation makes all the difference. Here are our top tips to make your adventure safe, comfortable, and enjoyable:
- Bring plenty of water – Staying hydrated is key, especially at higher elevations.
- Pack snacks – Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit will help you power through the climb.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots – The trail is well-maintained, but traction and ankle support are important for the steeper sections.
- Dress in layers – Weather in the mountains can change quickly; bring a light jacket or fleece.
- Use navigation tools – We recommend the AllTrails app to track distance, elevation gain, and trail conditions.
- A Hat or sunglasses – to protect your eyes.
- Take breaks and enjoy the views – Mount Rainier is as much about the journey as the destination.
By planning ahead and packing thoughtfully, your hike will be safer, more comfortable, and far more memorable.
Best Time to Visit Mount Rainier National Park
While Mount Rainier is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do.
We visited in September and were greeted with fantastic weather. Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and trails in excellent condition.
The summer and early fall months (July through September) are generally the most reliable for hiking, wildflower blooms, and panoramic views.
For those planning a visit, it’s helpful to check real-time conditions before you go. Mount Rainier webcams provide live views of key areas in the park, so you can see the current weather and trail accessibility.
Final Thoughts: Mt. Rainier National Park
Our day at Mount Rainier National Park was everything we hoped it would be, and more! From the moment we arrived at the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center in Paradise to our climb along the Skyline Loop Trail, every step offered breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from challenging yourself in nature.
Mount Rainier isn’t just a hike; it’s an experience that engages all your senses. The sound of marmots calling, the scent of alpine meadows, the crunch of trail underfoot, and the sight of glaciers shimmering in the sunlight all combine to create unforgettable memories. It’s a reminder that the journey itself can be as rewarding as reaching the destination.
For us, Mount Rainier National Park was a perfect addition to our 63 National Park Challenge, and an experience we’ll carry with us long after leaving the trail.
💡 Explore Some More!
If you enjoyed exploring this park with us, check out the other National Parks we’ve explored as part of our 63 National Park Challenge and join us on more adventures across America!
If you’re dreaming of visiting one of these incredible National Parks, explore our Travel Resources Page for tools to help you plan your trip with confidence.
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