Discover the enchanting beauty of Mount Rainier, standing like a queen rising above the Seattle skyline. This stunning 14,411-foot stratovolcano, just a short drive of about 59 miles southeast of Seattle, invites you to explore its lush forests, scenic vistas, crystal-clear lakes, and trails adorned with vibrant wildflowers. The Mount Rainier National Park beckons with three distinct ecological zones – forest, subalpine, and alpine – offering a majestic playground across its vast 241,782-acre expanse, ranging in elevation from 1700 to 6,000 feet.
For thousands of years, Native American tribes, including the Nisqually, Puyallup, and Yakama, have lived in harmony with the land, considering Mount Rainier a sacred place, and their legacy continues to be celebrated and honored in the park today.
“Out of the forest at last there stood the mountain, wholly unveiled, awful in bulk and majesty..” – John Muir
Our family-friendly guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit for your family. We’ll navigate the park’s key areas, provide handy maps, share tips for your adventure, suggest exciting one and two-day itineraries, and guide you on making reservations to ensure you make the most of your experience. Whether you plan a day trip to the park from Seattle or visit as part of a 3 national park Washington state itinerary, Mount Rainier is not to be missed.
Entrances to Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier National Park offers four convenient entrances for families to begin their exploration. The Nisqually Entrance, a popular gateway for over half of the park’s visitors, is a great place to start, while the rugged and remote Carbon River Entrance provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Be sure to check the park’s website to confirm which entrances are open during your planned visit, as hours of operation can vary depending on the season.
- Nisqually Entrance: Located in the southwest corner of the park, this entrance is open year-round and leads to Longmire and Paradise. This popular entrance is notable for its iconic National Park Service Rustic architectural style and the impressive Nisqually Entrance arch.
- Stevens Canyon Entrance: Located in the southeast corner of the park, this entrance is open during the summer season, usually from June to late September. It’s the closest entrance to the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center and is next to the Grove of the Patriarchs Trailhead.
- White River / Sunrise Entrance: The gateway to Mount Rainier’s Sunrise corridor, offering access to breathtaking alpine landscapes and opportunities for high-elevation adventure. This entrance leads to the northeastern section of Mount Rainier National Park, showcasing stunning views and access to iconic natural wonders such as Emmons Glacier.
- Carbon River Entrance: On the park’s northwest side, this entrance provides an immersive experience in the rainforest environment, offering unique hiking opportunities such as the Carbon River Rainforest Trail.
5 Mount Rainier Park Areas
Mount Rainier National Park has five amazing regions, each packed with its own special adventures and sights. The Paradise Area on the park’s south side lives up to its name with beautiful mountain views and colorful wildflower fields. Explore Paradise Inn and stop by the Jackson Visitor Center for helpful tips and information. Easy family walks like the Nisqually Vista Trail and the Skyline Trail offer incredible views of Mount Rainier and its ice fields. Don’t miss Reflection Lakes and Inspiration Point, where you can snap perfect family photos against marvelous mountain backdrops.
The Longmire Area near the southwest entrance tells the park’s story and welcomes visitors year-round. This historic spot features the interesting Longmire Museum and the cozy National Park Inn, where families can stay and eat. Take the kids on the Trail of the Shadows, an easy loop trail that passes through meadows, forests, and historic sites. Nearby, the 60-foot Christine Falls is a must-stop visit.
Head to the northeast to find the Sunrise Area, the park’s highest spot you can reach by car. This family-friendly zone offers wonderful mountain views, bright wildflower meadows, and memorable hiking paths. Start your adventure at the Sunrise Visitor Center, where short walks like the Emmons Vista Overlook show off the massive Emmons Glacier. For an extra special treat, take the family to Sunrise Point Overlook, where you can see Mount Rainier and other mountain peaks stretching as far as the eye can see on clear days.
The Ohanapecosh Area in the southeast corner feels like a magical forest with its giant old trees and peaceful rivers. Kids will love exploring the Hot Springs Nature Trail, which winds through towering Douglas firs and western red cedars. Make sure to visit the impressive Box Canyon, where rushing water has carved an amazing deep gorge. Stop by the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center to learn fun facts about the area’s natural wonders and view the hot springs.
In the northwest, the Carbon River and Mowich Lake Areas show off the park’s unique rainforest and glacier features. Families can explore the Carbon Glacier, which sits at the lowest height of any glacier in the lower 48 states, and walk through the lush Carbon River Rainforest Trail. The beautiful Mowich Lake is perfect for family activities like hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic surrounded by wildflowers. These quieter areas let families experience true wilderness together.
Fees
Mount Rainier entrance pass for a private vehicle with a seating capacity of 15 or less is $30. The pass is good for one to seven consecutive days. Passes can be purchased online or at a ranger station. Please note that stations are generally staffed during daylight hours and accept credit/debit only.
We highly recommend buying an America the Beautiful pass for $80. The pass is good for one calendar year and is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. Having a pass will allow you to pop in for a few hours in the evening and again the next morning.
If you have a 4th grader, check out the FREE Annual 4th Grade pass which is good for the duration of the school year through the following summer (September-August).
Current U.S. military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members, qualify for a free annual pass.
Timed-Entry Reservations
Mount Rainier National Park has experienced a 40% increase in visitation over the last decade, leading to overcrowding and environmental damage during peak summer months. To address these challenges, a pilot timed entry reservation system was issued for 2024. We foresee the system becoming a regular requirement like at several other national parks.
This system requires reservations for Paradise and Sunrise Corridors from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Each vehicle must obtain a separate timed-entry reservation, valid for a single day, which can be booked on Recreation.gov.
Timed-entry reservations during summer months are made available in blocks, the first block released a month before and another block available the day before. The Paradise Corridor, which includes popular sites like Longmire, Christine Falls, and various trailheads, requires reservations from late May to early September. The Sunrise Corridor, which usually opens for the season in early July, weather permitting, also requires timed entry reservations during this period. Visitors can still enter the park without reservations outside the 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM window or explore areas that do not require a timed entry reservation at any time.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park depends on the experience you seek, as the park offers something special in every season. Summer, from July to September, is the most popular time thanks to sunny weather, wildflower-filled meadows, and clear views of Mount Rainier. Wildflowers are at their peak in late July, creating a stunning landscape in areas like Paradise and Sunrise. It’s also a great time for hiking, with most trails fully accessible, including the scenic Skyline Trail and Naches Peak Loop. However, summer is also the busiest season—visiting on a weekday or early in the morning helps avoid crowds. As mentioned above, summer month visits require a timed-entry ticket in addition to your entrance fee or park pass.
Spring and fall bring fewer visitors and mild temperatures, but conditions can be variable. In spring (April–June), waterfalls like Christine Falls and Narada Falls are at their most spectacular, fed by melting snow. Although some higher-elevation roads and trails may still be closed due to lingering snow, areas like Longmire and the lower elevations of Paradise provide great options for exploring. Fall (late September–October) transforms the park with vibrant foliage, best seen in subalpine meadows near Sunrise or along trails like Grove of the Patriarchs. It’s a quieter, more peaceful time to visit, though some roads and facilities begin closing for the season.
Winter at Mount Rainier (November–March) offers a magical snowy wonderland with activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding near Paradise (sledding not available 2024-2025 season). The road to Paradise is generally open on winter days, weather permitting, making it the go-to spot for exploring winter scenery, including the famous Nisqually Vista Trail. Longmire remains accessible year-round and offers ranger-led snowshoe walks and a cozy base for winter adventures.
Explore the Ecological Wonders of Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park’s unique geography, with its glaciers, subalpine meadows, and old-growth forests, creates a variety of habitats are home to over 1,000 species of plants, 200 species of birds, and 56 species of mammals. From the towering conifers of the forest to the tiny wildflowers that dot the meadows, every aspect of the park’s ecosystem is interconnected and interdependent, making it a fascinating and complex web of life.
One of the park’s most striking ecological features is its subalpine meadows, which are filled with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in the summer months. These meadows are not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also provide a vital source of food and habitat for many of the park’s animals, including bears, mountain goats, and marmots. The park’s old-growth forests are home to some of the largest and oldest trees in the country, including giant Douglas firs and western hemlocks. These forests play a critical role in regulating the park’s climate, filtering its water, and providing habitat for countless species of plants and animals. To help you explore the more popular areas of the park, we’ve created a 2-day itinerary for your family.
2-Day Mount Rainier Itinerary with Kids
Scheduling our two-day visit to Mount Rainier will depend on several factors: weather, time of year, how much your family hikes, where you stay, and your timed entry reservation. Additionally, consider the ages and energy levels of your children and any specific interests or needs, so that everyone has a fun and memorable experience. Also check the park’s website for up-to-date information on trail conditions, road closures, and other important alerts before your visit. This itinerary covers the two most popular areas of the park.
Day One – Paradise Corridor: Explore from Nisqually Entrance to Ohanapecosh
Your first day in Mount Rainier National Park begins at the Nisqually Entrance, following the scenic Paradise Corridor to Stevens Canyon Entrance and continuing to Ohanapecosh. Depending on your timed entry and start time, consider packing a lunch or snacks to extend your visit without having to break for meals. The following attractions are listed in order of travel, guiding you from Nisqually to Ohanapecosh to help you build a list of stops that fit your allotted time for the day.
Westside Road/Winter Trailhead: Located shortly after the entrance, this left-hand fork leads to Klapatche Park Trail (19-mile round trip) and Golden Lakes Trail (20-mile round trip), offering rewarding backcountry hiking opportunities. The trail winds through a lush forest of Douglas fir and western hemlock, with periodic clearings with glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
Kautz Creek Trail & Overlook: At 3 miles from the entrance, this area provides restrooms and picnic facilities. The overlook offers views of Mount Rainier, while the trail stretches 11 miles round trip to Indian Henry’s Hunting Ground. The overlook has views of Mount Rainier, while the trail stretches 11 miles round trip to Indian Henry’s Hunting Ground, passing through a mix of old-growth forest and subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers.
Twin Firs Trail: This 0.4-mile loop explores old-growth forest with Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar, featuring a diverse array of plant life and a chance to spot wildlife like deer and birds. The trail’s short length and gentle terrain make it an excellent option for families or those looking for a quick, easy hike.
Longmire: At 6.5 miles from Nisqually, Longmire offers a historic museum, National Park Inn, and an information center. The Longmire Suspension Bridge connects to the Eagle Peak Trailhead and provides views of the Nisqually River.
Christine Falls: Located 10.7 miles from Nisqually, 60-foot tall Christine Falls features a short walk to a viewpoint. The 69-foot waterfall is framed by a picturesque stone bridge, making it a popular photo spot.
Glacier Bridge: Glacier Bridge is a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Nisqually River and surrounding mountains, with a chance to spot wildlife like bears and mountain goats. The bridge itself spans the Nisqually River, providing a thrilling glimpse into the river’s glacier-carved gorge and the surrounding old-growth forest.
Ricksecker Point: This one-way summer-only loop offers panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Nisqually, and Paradise valleys. Pullouts feature interpretive panels about the park’s geological history.
Narada Falls: Near Paradise, 176-foot tall Narada Falls has a parking lot, restrooms, and trail access. A short walk leads to the falls viewing area, with trails connecting to the Wonderland Trail.
Nisqually Vista Trail: Located near the lower Paradise parking lot, this 1.2-mile loop is one of the park’s few paved trails, making it family-friendly and stroller-accessible. The trail leads through subalpine meadows, offering views of Mount Rainier, the Nisqually River Valley, and Nisqually Glacier. It’s beautiful in summer when wildflowers bloom, but it’s also a popular beginner route for snowshoeing in winter.
Paradise Inn: Paradise, one of the park’s most popular areas, features Paradise Inn, a cafe, and a gift shop. Although the inn doesn’t accommodate big families, the historic building in 1917 is worth a visit.
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center: Situated at 5,400 feet in elevation, the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center offers informative exhibits, an educational film, a gift shop, and ranger-led programs. Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Rainier’s summit, which rises dramatically to 14,410 feet. On clear days, you can also see the rugged peaks of the Tatoosh Range, including Castle, Pinnacle, and Plummer Peaks. The visitor center is a central hub for exploring the surrounding trails and subalpine meadows,
Visiting Tip: Timed-entry reservations do not guarantee parking. The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center has two parking lots. If you find a spot in the first available lot, park there immediately, as the lot closest to the center often fills up quickly and has vehicles idling and waiting for spaces. Additional parking is available along the one-way Valley Road leading out of the visitor center, but spots can be far from the main area.
Area Trails: The surrounding meadows bloom with wildflowers in summer, offering stunning views of Mount Rainier. Enjoy spectacular views from one of the area’s nine trails, the following three will fit easily into your schedule:
- Skyline Trail: Starting from the Paradise area, this 5.5-mile loop is a must-do for hikers, offering panoramic views of Mount Rainier, glaciers, and alpine meadows. The trail traverses a variety of ecosystems, including subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers, rocky outcroppings, and patches of forest,
- Myrtle Falls: Take Skyline Trail for a short 0.4-mile walk from the visitor center to Myrtle Falls, which cascades over 72 feet with Mount Rainier as a stunning backdrop. The trail passes through a lush fir and hemlock forest, with chances to spot wildlife like marmots and pikas.
- Nisqually Vista Trail: Located near the lower Paradise parking lot, this 1.2-mile loop is one of the park’s few paved trails, making it family-friendly and stroller-accessible. The trail leads through subalpine meadows, offering views of Mount Rainier, the Nisqually River Valley, and Nisqually Glacier, with a chance to spot wildflowers like lupine and bear grass.
Reflection Lakes: Located along Stevens Canyon Road, this scenic stop provides mirror-like views of Mount Rainier. Trails, including the Pinnacle Peak Trail, start here.
Upper Sunbeam Falls: The waterfall cascades down a rocky slope, surrounded by a lush forest of fir and hemlock trees. The falls are accessible via a short hike from Stevens Canyon Road.
Box Canyon: This dramatic gorge, with a bridge and viewpoint, offers views of Stevens Creek below. It’s a great stop for a picnic or exploring nearby trails.
Grove of the Patriarchs: Unfortunately, the suspension bridge leading to the island of old-growth trees is closed. Construction to replace the bridge is scheduled for summer 2027.
Silver Falls: The Ohanapecosh River’s full force cascades down a series of smaller waterfalls, ultimately plunging 60 feet enveloped by ancient, old-growth forest. When the river is in full flow, the thunderous mist creates an awe-inspiring experience, making it one of the park’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
Ohanapecosh: The eastern end of this journey includes the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, Silver Falls Trailhead, and Ohanapecosh Campground, known for its hot springs and forest trails.
Day Two – Sunrise: Explore from Ohanaopechosh to Sunrise
The journey from Packwood to Sunrise offers a mix of scenic drives, historic trails, and alpine vistas. Plan for about 1.5 hours of driving time, with additional stops at Tipsoo Lake or other attractions.
Ohanapecosh Campground Area: If you didn’t cover this area on the previous day, start your day with a visit to the Ohanapecosh Campground area, featuring riverside trails and forested paths. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs before continuing on your drive.
Little Tipsoo Lake: About 27 miles and 40 minutes from Packwood, Tipsoo Lake offers a beautiful stop with short trails and picnic areas. Enjoy mirror images of Mount Rainier in the lake as you hike the easy path around.
Naches Peak Loop Trailhead: The Naches Peak Loop Trailhead offers a 3.4-mile loop hike with stunning views of Mount Rainier, wildflowers, and scenic mountain vistas. As you hike this loop, keep an eye out for the unique rock formations, meadows, and the picturesque Tipsoo Lake, which makes for a perfect picnic spot.
Chinook Pass Overlook Trailhead: The Chinook Pass Overlook Trailhead provides a short, easy walk to a viewpoint with spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see the majestic mountain peaks stretching as far as the eye can see, and the viewpoint’s interpretive signs offer insight into the area’s geology and history.
Sheep Lake and Sourdough Gap Trailheads: The Sheep Lake and Sourdough Gap Trailheads offer longer, more challenging hikes that reward you with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and lakes. The trails take you through old-growth forests, subalpine meadows, and rocky outcroppings, with chances to spot wildlife, including mountain goats, marmots, and eagles.
White River Entrance: From Tipsoo Lake, drive about 8 miles to the Sunrise entrance, marked by the Mather Memorial Parkway stone sign. The entrance road opens from late June to early October, so check road status before heading out. Have your timed entry pass ready as you reach the ranger stand, approximately 1.3 miles from Highway 410. If you arrive early, roadside parking is available.
Fryingpan Creek Bridge: As you start the ascent toward Sunrise Visitor Center, stop at the bridge crossing Fryingpan Creek. Parking is available on both sides, enjoy spectacular views of the creek and Mount Rainier in the distance.
Summerland Trailhead: This trail offers subalpine wildflowers, expansive views of Mount Rainier, and frequent wildlife sightings, including mountain goats. The hike is 8.4 miles round trip with a 2,100-foot elevation gain, making it a rewarding option for experienced hikers.
Sunrise Point Lookout: At 6,120 feet, the large parking lot in the road’s hairpin turn offers 360-degree views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams to the south, and Mount Baker to the north. It’s an excellent spot for photos and a short rest, however, no restrooms are available.
Sunrise Lake Hike: Starting from the lookout parking lot, this trail is a nice detour or warm-up before tackling longer hikes like Burroughs Mountain or Dege Peak from the Sunrise area.
Sunrise Visitor Center & Yakima Park: The Sunrise area, also known as Yakima Park, sits at 6,400 feet and was historically used by the Yakama people for hunting and gathering. The visitor center has about 200 standard parking spots, plus additional gravel parking. Enjoy the Sunrise Day Lodge, which offers food service, a gift shop, and ranger-led programs.
Emmons Vista Hike: A short and easy walk from the parking lot that rewards visitors with great views of the Emmons Glacier, the largest glacier in the contiguous United States covering over 4 square miles.
Kid-Friendly Mount Rainier Activities:
- The Mount Rainier National Park offers several free summer programs, including ranger-led walks, talks, and campfire programs, that cater to visitors of all ages and explore topics such as geology, wildlife, ecology, and park history. These programs are typically available from July to September and are held at various locations throughout the park, including Paradise, Longmire, Sunrise, and Ohanapecosh.
- The Junior Ranger Program is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about the park’s natural and cultural resources, earning a badge upon completion of the program’s activities and requirements.
- The Citizen Ranger Quests program at Mount Rainier National Park offers engaging, self-guided activities designed for individuals, families, or groups to explore the park’s unique history, science, and natural stewardship. By completing four quests, including two within the park, participants earn a Citizen Ranger certificate and patch.
- Enjoy the 260+ miles of maintained trails. You’ll love these family-friendly less than 5-mile hikes to add to your schedule. (Coming Soon!)
- Join a ranger-led Snowshoe Walk, a guided tour that takes you through the park’s snow-covered trails, providing insight into the park’s winter ecology and the chance to spot animal tracks and other signs of wildlife. Explore the park’s snow-covered landscapes on cross-country skis or snowshoes, available for rent at the Longmire or Paradise areas
Where to Stay at Mount Rainier with a Big Family
Finding accommodations for big families can be a challenge in the Mount Rainier area, where lodging options are often limited to families of 4 or less. However, we’ve researched suitable lodging for big families in and around Mount Rainier National Park.
National Park Lodging
Lodging options within Mount Rainier National Park are limited to two options. Paradise Inn can accommodate families of up to 6 people, and only in their 3 Double Bedroom rooms. However, this room type has a shared bathroom and shower located in the hallway, rather than a private bathroom. Unfortunately, there are no lodging options within the park that can accommodate families larger than 6 people.
Camping and RV
Mount Rainier National Park offers three auto campgrounds: Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River. Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh campgrounds are open from late May to early October, while White River Campground is open from late June to late September. The campgrounds have a total of 358 individual sites and 7 group sites, with amenities such as flush toilets, potable water, and fire grates. However, there are no electrical, water, or grey water hookups available in any of the campgrounds. Additionally, wilderness camping is also an option for those who want to explore the park’s backcountry but requires a wilderness permit and adherence to specific regulations.
RV camping is permitted in Mount Rainier National Park’s auto campgrounds, with size restrictions varying by campground: Cougar Rock allows RVs up to 35 feet in length, Ohanapecosh allows RVs up to 32 feet, and White River allows RVs up to 27 feet. However, there are no electrical, water, or sewage hookups available, and RVs must be self-contained. Additionally, RV dump stations are not available in the park, except for a closed dump station at Cougar Rock campground.
Vacation Rentals
If you need more room or plan on staying longer than a few days, a vacation rental will help serve as a great base to explore the area. You’ll find many options in Packwood and Ashford.
Local Hotels, Lodges, and Inns
Depending on which direction you’re coming from, Puyallup, Eatonville, and Packwood are all convenient bases for exploring the park. While it’s possible to stay in Seattle and make a day trip to Mount Rainier, keep in mind that it’s a significant drive – around 2-3 hours each way, depending on traffic. If you’re short on time or prefer not to spend too much time in the car, consider staying in one of these local towns instead.
If you’re following our recommended 2-day itinerary, we suggest splitting your time between Puyallup and Packwood. Puyallup is a great base for exploring the west side of the park, including the Nisqually Entrance and the Paradise Valley area. Packwood, on the other hand, is well-located for visiting the east side of the park, including the Stevens Canyon Entrance and the Sunrise area. By staying in these two towns, you’ll be able to minimize your driving time and make the most of your time in the park.
- Puyallup: Located about 45 miles northwest of Mount Rainier, Puyallup is a convenient base for exploring the park, with the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center and the Nisqually Entrance just a 1-hour drive away (55 miles).
- Eatonville: Located about 25 miles northwest of Mount Rainier, Eatonville is a charming town that’s about a 45-minute drive (35 miles) from the Nisqually Entrance.
- Packwood: Positioned near the southeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park, Packwood is about 10 miles from the Stevens Canyon Entrance, offering easy access to the park’s scenic drives and hiking trails.
Where to Eat at Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier Park Restaurants
The park offers seven options for restaurants and cafes, but availability and hours of operation can vary depending on the season and park conditions. Check with park rangers or visitor centers for up-to-date information on dining options and hours to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center: Snacks and light meals
- Longmire: Casual dining options, including sandwiches and salads
- National Park Inn in Longmire: Classic American fare and regional specialties
- Paradise: Snacks and light meals
- Paradise Inn: Substantial dining options with a focus on regional cuisine
- Sunrise: Casual dining options with stunning views
- Sunrise Day Lodge: Food and beverages with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains
Picnic Areas
For those who prefer to bring their meals or enjoy a scenic outdoor dining experience, Mount Rainier National Park offers 25 picnic areas throughout the park. From the tranquil old-growth forests of the Ohanapecosh Picnic Area to the stunning mountain views at the Paradise Picnic Area, there’s a spot to suit every taste. Other popular options include the Box Canyon Picnic Area, near an impressive slot canyon, and the Sunrise Picnic Area, which offers meadow and mountain vistas. The Cougar Rock Picnic Area and White River Picnic Area provide quiet retreats in the forest, while the Longmire Community Building Viewpoint and Narada Falls offer picnic tables with a view.
Top 10 Tips for Visiting Mount Rainier National Park with Kids
- Note that the park’s entrances are not connected by a circular road system. Due to the mountainous terrain and elevation, many entrances require a drive-in and out along the same route. This means visiting multiple entrances in one trip can be time-consuming.
- Print your timed-entry reservation or save a screenshot to your phone. Reservations will be scanned at the park entrance station. The reservation holder must be in the vehicle. A photo ID is required. This might seem like a pain but it eliminates possible ticket resale at inflated prices.
- Visit on a weekday. During our visit in late July, I was worried that crowds would be an annoyance. However, a weekday visit and timed entry made our visit very enjoyable.
- Please note that pets are not allowed on trails or in wilderness areas, but are permitted in developed areas, such as picnic areas and campgrounds, and must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
- We recommend a 2-day visit to increase your chances of seeing Mount Rainier, as fog and weather conditions can often limit visibility. In fact, many visitors don’t get to see the mountain due to inclement weather, so planning an extra day can help ensure you get a clear view of this stunning natural wonder.
- Timed-entry reservations do not guarantee parking. The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center has two parking lots. If you find a spot in the first available lot, park there immediately, as the lot closest to the center often fills up quickly and has vehicles idling and waiting for spaces. Additional parking is available along the one-way Valley Road leading out of the visitor center, but spots can be far from the main area.
- Lodging for big families is limited. Book your accommodations early – 12-15 months out for best planning!
- Pack food and snacks to reduce meal-related interruptions, especially if you’re planning to spend a whole day in the park.
- Check the park’s website for up-to-date information on trail conditions, road closures, and other important alerts.
- Plan your itinerary carefully to focus on specific areas of the park to avoid excessive driving.
Additional Resources
Before embarking on your Mount Rainier adventure with kids, make sure to prepare with the following essential items and resources.
Car Trip Essentials
- Cooler with snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized throughout the day
- Car organizers and storage bins to keep gear and supplies within reach
- Portable charger for devices and a car adapter for charging on the go
- Comfort items like travel pillows and blankets
- Create more room in your vehicle by storing your gear in a roof rack
Kid Travel Essentials
- For hiking, we recommend hiking carriers over strollers. While some trails are paved, many are uneven or steep.
- Water bottles and refillable containers for snacks
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection
- First-aid kit and emergency supplies, such as band-aids and antiseptic wipes
Kid-Friendly Educational Resources from Amazon
- Mount Rainier National Park (Rookie National Parks) Learn about the park with Ranger Rick
- Mount Rainier National Park Activity Book: Puzzles, Mazes, Games, and More for Kids Ages 7-12 (National Parks Activity Series)
- Mount Rainier National Park Map: A detailed and waterproof map perfect for navigating the park’s trails and attractions. Build trip excitement by hanging the map marked with planned stops in your family’s common area.
- Wildflowers of the Mount Rainier Guide to 130 wildflower species of Mount Rainier with detailed descriptions
- Tahoma and Its People: A Natural History of Mount Rainier National Park (for you or older kids)
Other Resources
- Download the NPS app on your cell and enable offline access to park maps and information, so you can stay connected to the park’s resources even without cell service. You’ll find self-guided tours, an events calendar, the latest news, and much more.
- Check the park’s webcams to preview the weather and road conditions before your visit.
- Visit the Mount Rainier National Park website’s “Plan Your Visit” section for up-to-date information on trail conditions, road closures, and other important alerts to help you prepare for your trip.
- Be social. Follow Mount Rainier on X, on FB, and on IG. And why not follow us on IG too? 🙂
Area Maps
Carbon/Mowich Area Trails
Longmire Area Trails
Ohanapecosh Area Trails
Sunrise Area Trails
Paradise Area Trails
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