Mount Rainier National Park is located in the state of Washington in the United States. It was established in 1899, making it the fifth oldest national park in the United States. The park encompasses 236,381 acres of forests, meadows, and glaciers, with the centerpiece being the 14,411-foot Mount Rainier, an active volcano and the highest peak in the Cascade Range.
The park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, climbing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are over 260 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous climbs to the summit of Mount Rainier. The park also has several campgrounds, some of which are open year-round, and numerous picnic areas.
One of the park's most popular attractions is the Paradise area, which features stunning views of the mountain, alpine meadows, and wildflowers. The Paradise Visitor Center provides information on the park's history, geology, and ecology, as well as guided tours and ranger-led activities. The park also has several other visitor centers, including the Longmire Museum, the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, and the Sunrise Visitor Center.
Mount Rainier National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, elk, and marmots. The park is also known for its wildflowers, with over 700 species blooming throughout the summer months.
Visitors should be aware that the weather at Mount Rainier can be unpredictable, with storms, high winds, and sudden changes in temperature. It is important to be prepared with appropriate clothing and equipment, and to check weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out on a hike.
www.nps.gov/mora - 1634 - Mount Rainier National Park
