# 3 Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
To date Mount Rainier is my favorite national park!
I visited in August 2021 during the COVID period when travel was still limited. The visitor centers were closed and the park was noticeably quiet. There were no long lines at the entrance and only a small number of cars on the road which made getting in and moving around simple.
I arrived through the Nisqually Entrance which is the main entrance to the park. There is a large log over the road with the park name on it and many visitors stop here to take their national park photo. I got there early in the morning to avoid potential crowds. Because the visitor center was closed I was not able to get my passport stamp at that time. A friend returned a couple of years later and picked it up for me.
First Impressions and Visitor Center
The lack of crowds had the biggest impact on the visit. Parking was easy and there was no need to circle or wait for a space. The atmosphere felt calm and unhurried which is unusual for a popular national park in the middle of summer.
The Henry M Jackson Visitor Center in the Paradise area is usually the main hub with parking restrooms and access to several trails but it was closed during my visit.
Official site: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/henry-m-jackson-visitor-center.htm
About Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is located in Washington State and centers around Mount Rainier which rises to 14,411 feet. It is the tallest mountain in Washington and can be seen from well outside the park.
The landscape changes as elevation increases. Lower areas have old growth forest while higher levels open into meadows rocky slopes and glacier covered terrain. The park has more than 260 miles of hiking trails and several road accessible viewpoints.
Popular Hikes and Attractions
Paradise Area
Known for summer meadows and open views with several paved or partially paved routes that begin near the visitor center.
Sunrise Area
A high elevation viewpoint that is open in summer with access to additional trails and clear mountain views.
More information
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/sunrise-area.htm
Grove of the Patriarchs
A short forest trail that passes large old growth trees. The suspension bridge may be closed depending on conditions.
Trail status
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/trail-conditions.htm
Park Fees
Private vehicle entry is 30 dollars and is valid for seven days.
The America the Beautiful Pass is accepted.
Fee information
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/fees.htm
Best Photo Spots in Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier National Park entrance sign
A common stop for visitors entering the park.
Paradise Meadows
Seasonal views of open fields with the mountain visible on clear days.
Sunrise Lookout
High elevation scenery reached by road when open.
Pullouts along Paradise Road
Short stops with views without long walks.
Where to Stay In and Around Mount Rainier
Inside the Park
Paradise Inn
A seasonal lodge near the Paradise area.
More information
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/lodging.htm
Camping Inside the Park
Reservations or seasonal availability may apply.
Campground information
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/camping.htm
Outside the Park
Ashford Washington
Closest access point to the southwest entrance with lodging and small services.
Enumclaw Washington
Used for visiting from the northeast side and accessing the Sunrise area.
Things to Consider When Visiting Mount Rainier
Best Time to Visit
Summer and early fall offer the most road and trail access.
Winter brings closures and snow at higher elevations.
Weather and Conditions
Weather changes quickly especially at higher elevations.
Check road status before entering the park.
https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/road-status.htm
Crowd Levels
Weekends and clear summer days can be busy.
Arriving early helps with parking and trail access.
Wildlife and Safety
Animals such as elk black bears and mountain goats may be present.
Keep distance and follow park guidance.
