Mount Rainier

Dominating the skyline of western Washington, Mount Rainier National Park is both a symbol of the Pacific Northwest and one of the most awe-inspiring mountains in America. This active stratovolcano rises more than 14,000 feet above sea level, its snowcapped summit draped in over two dozen glaciers — the most of any peak in the contiguous United States. From its icy slopes, five major rivers begin their descent, feeding the lush forests and valleys below.

The park spans over 230,000 acres of diverse wilderness, ranging from temperate rainforests to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. In summer, Paradise and Sunrise come alive with vibrant color, offering some of the most breathtaking hiking views in the nation. In winter, deep snow transforms the park into a wonderland for snowshoers, skiers, and adventurers seeking solitude.

Mount Rainier’s presence is both majestic and humbling — a reminder of nature’s power, beauty, and fragility. Whether you’re climbing toward the summit, wandering through ancient forests of Douglas fir, or standing in the mist of a cascading waterfall, this park embodies the wild spirit of the Pacific Northwest.