# DRAFT TEXT Mount Rainier National Park Pocket Guide

By Damian Fagan

NOTE: All map or photo insert are suggestions only.

INSERT: Cover photo of Mount Rainier; TBD

## **FACT SHEET**

## **History**

### Established: March 2, 1899; 5^th^ National Park

**Visitors in 2007**: 1,047,685 (due to closures); annual average is
between 1.5 and 2 million

## **Physical Features**

**Acreage:** 235, 625 acres

**Area:** 368 square miles

**Designated wilderness:** 97% of park

**National Historic Landmark District:** 2.7% of park

**Highest Elevation:** Mount Rainier 14,410 feet

**Named Glaciers**: 26

**Number of lakes:** 382

**Rivers and streams:** 470

**Number of peaks:** More than 100 named peaks

**Species Count:** Birds 229, Mammals 53, Reptiles and Amphibians 17,
Fish 8, Plants almost 900

**Annual average snowfall:** Paradise, 630 inches

**Maximum annual snowfall:** 1127 inches

**Annual average precipitation:** Paradise 126 inches, Longmire 87
inches, Ohanapecosh 75 inches

### Facilities

**Entrance stations:** 4, Carbon River, Nisqually, Sunrise, White River

**Roads:** 147 miles

**Trails:** Over 260 miles

**Wonderland trail:** 93 mile loop

**Campgrounds:** 3 accessible by car: Cougar Rock (173 sites),
Ohanapecosh (188 sites), White River (112 sites); Ipsut Creek (29,
walk-in only), and Mowich Lake (30, walk-in only); Sunshine Point
(closed in 2008)

**Visitor Centers:** 4 - Longmire Museum, Ohanapecosh, Henry M. Jackson
Memorial (in Paradise), and Sunrise

**Ranger Stations**: 3, Longmire Wilderness Information Center, White
River Wilderness Information Center and Carbon River Ranger Station

**Lodging:** 2, Paradise Inn (121 rooms), National Park Inn at Longmire
(25 rooms)

**Volunteer hours 2007:** 70,130

# 

# Contents

**Fact Sheet**

**Welcome:** Introduction to Mount Rainier National Park

# Navigate: Getting to and around the park

# History: Key things about the park

# Flora and Fauna: All things great and small

# Horizons: Natural and historic sites

# Get Going: Activities in the park

# Just for Families

# Recharge: Places to sleep and eat

# Beyond the Borders: Off-site places to visit

# Resources

# Index

# 

# 

# Welcome: Introduction Mount Rainier National Park

**INSERT PHOTO:** Mount Rainier image; DFagan_MORA_Mount Rainier from
Paradise

Majestic. Massive. Magnificent. Mount Rainier. Locals call it "The
Mountain," and the Nisqually Indians called it "*Tahoma*" meaning "snowy
peak" or "the mountain." That it is, averaging over 630 inches of snow a
year in Paradise, which is also known as "the snowiest place on Earth
where snowfall is regularly measured."

Born of fire and sculpted by ice, Mount Rainier is an icon of the
Northwest. Its image appears on everything from license plates to beer
cans to commemorative quarters. Ironically, Captain George Vancouver
named the mountain for Rear Admiral Peter Rainier of the British Navy
who never set eyes on his namesake. On a clear day, it is difficult to
miss the 14,410-foot tall mountain as it towers above the surrounding
peaks in the Cascade Range.

Set aside as the nation's 5^th^ National Park, Rainier is a mix of
frontcountry touring and backcountry wilderness. There are historic
lodges that provide modern-day comforts; built of stone and wood, the
buildings recall a simpler time in our nation's history. Paved roads
provide easy access to waterfalls, hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and
subalpine meadows bursting with summer wildflowers. Stepping away from
the roads, there are miles of trails leading into unspoiled areas of
ancient forests and pristine wilderness.

For the truly adventurous, there is the challenge of The Mountain
itself, as climbers ascend its snowy slopes "step by step."

Mount Rainier National Park protects 235, 625 acres, but the park is
surrounded by thousands of additional acres of wilderness and national
forests. Twenty-six named glaciers cling to the mountain's high slopes,
and 382 lakes dot the landscape. Across the park's 12,700-foot elevation
gradient, range a diversity of life zones from temperate rainforests
along the Carbon River to the subalpine world of Indian Henrys Hunting
Ground and the icy summit itself. Within and through these life zones
move charismatic wildlife such as black bears, mountain goats, Roosevelt
elk, and the elusive mountain lion. All told, over 300 species of birds,
mammals, fish, amphibians, and reptiles live in the shadow of the
mountain.

Less mobile but just as spectacular are the trees, shrubs and
wildflowers that create habitat for these animals. Ancient trees
hundreds of years old form old-growth forests at lower elevations and
almost 58% of the park is covered by forests. The composition and growth
of the trees changes as one ascends from the lowland to the subalpine.
Douglas fir gives way to silver fir that gives way to subalpine fir. In
the highest reaches where trees grow, their gnarled and stunted growth
is testament to the harsh conditions in which they survive. Impressive
as these trees are, the eruption of summer wildflowers around Paradise
and Sunrise steal the tree's spotlight. These resilient plants lie
buried beneath snow for a majority of the year; even avalanche lilies
begin to green up under the snow to get a head start on the short summer
season.

Tethered to this landscape are the modern day Native American tribes -
the Nisqually, Puyallup, Upper Cowlitz, Squarin Island, Muckleshoot, and
Yakama. For thousands of years their ancestors were hunting game and
collecting plants around the mountain, and these traditions continue
today.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Visitors on the trail: DFagan_MORA_Visitors hiking

Nearly 2 million people visit the park each year. The majority of them
come in summer, as they explore the woodlands and alpine world. Many are
content to take in the mountain vistas from along the main roads,
stopping at overlooks or points of interest. Others take to the trails
and explore the many wonders of the park's backcountry. Mountaineers in
the crowd go up and up to magical places like Camp Muir or Camp Schurman
before they attempt to gain the Columbia Crest summit.

Along with sightseeing and hiking, many visitors take advantage of the
park's campgrounds or rustic lodges to spend a night in the woods or
beneath clean sheets. Many include learning about the park's resources
to their agenda and join a ranger-guided hike or attend an evening
program. Even kids can become a Junior Ranger for the day, perhaps
setting them on a course for future employment with the National Park
Service. Painters and photographers will also enjoy capturing the
grandeur or intricate nature of the park on canvas or film.

Mount Rainier towers high above surrounding peaks in the Cascade Range,
which stretches from Lassen Peak in California to Mount Girabaldi in
British Columbia. Born of fire, The Mountain is awake, but resting. Its
last eruption about 150 years ago hurled only a small amount of pumice
and escaped gases into the air. As researchers monitor the current
seismic activity they try to predict when Rainier might erupt again and
to what extent. Until that time, there is a mountain of wonder to enjoy
in Mount Rainier National Park.

# Navigate: Getting around the park

### INSERT PHOTO: TBD

There are several major highways that provide easy access to Mount
Rainier National Park. Most visitors arrive by private car, others come
by foot, bike or bus tours.

**Car: From Seattle** drive Interstate 5 south to WA 512. Head east on
WA 512 to WA 7, and then travel south to WA 706 and east to the
southwest corner of the park. In summer, visitors may access the east
side by traveling south on I-5 to Interstate 405, then proceed east on
WA 167 to WA 410 in Enumclaw and proceed to the park. This east side
entrance is closed in winter.

**From Portland** travel north on Interstate 5 to U.S. Highway 12, then
east to WA 7 in Morton. Head north and east on WA 706 to the park.
Visitors may also access the east side by taking WA 12 from Morton to
Packwood to WA 123 to the park.

**From Yakima** travel west on WA 410 to Chinook Pass or US 12 to WA 123
over White Pass to the Ohanapecosh (pronounced oh-HANNAH-puh-kosh) area.

**Plane:** Three airports near the park are Seattle-Tacoma International
Airport, 85 miles to Ashford; Yakima Air Terminal, 115 miles to Ashford;
and Portland International Airport in Oregon 168 miles to Ashford. **\
**

**Bus**: Gray Line Tours (800-426-7532; www.graylineseattle.com) offers
daily trips from Seattle to the park from May 1 to September 30. These
are round-trip tours only, not a drop-off service.

### INSERT: Regional Map

### Park Entrances

Mount Rainier National Park is open year-round twenty-four hours a day,
although most entrances, except for the Nisqually one, are closed in
winter. Call the park for current road conditions.

**Nisqually Entrance**, located in the park's southwest corner, is open
year-round and the road leads to Longmire Historic District, Cougar Rock
Campground, and the Paradise area. In winter, WA 706 closes nightly from
Longmire to Paradise for snow removal.

### Stevens Canyon Entrance is north of Packwood and the Ohanapecosh campground, in the southeast corner of the park. Open spring through fall, access to this entrance is from WA 123 from Packwood or US 12 from Yakima over White Pass. Just north of the Ohanapecosh campground, WA 123 forks at the Steven Canyon Entrance. Proceed west along the Stevens Canyon Road towards Paradise or continue north to join the Mather Memorial Parkway, WA 410, at Cayuse Pass. The road north of Cayuse Pass accesses the White River campground, Sunrise area and northeast boundary of the park.

#### White River Entrance is off of the Mather Memorial Highway, WA 410, on the park's northeast side. This entrance may be reached from Cayuse Pass or from Enumclaw on WA 410 from the north; this access closes in mid-October due to snow. This entrance accesses the White River Campground and Sunrise areas. The road to Sunrise is generally open from early July to mid-September.

#### Carbon River Entrance is on the park's northwest corner. Access is on WA 165 through Wilkeson year-round. Subject to periodic flooding, in 2008 the road was closed to vehicles, but open to hikers and bicyclists accessing Ipsut Creek Campground and the Carbon Glacier area.

### Mowich Lake Entrance, also in the northwest section of the park, is reached off of WA 165. The highway is paved to the park boundary, then becomes a graded dirt road for 5 miles to its end at Mowich Lake Campground. The park road is open in summer and closes around mid-October.

**Chinook Pass** is reached from Yakima along WA 410, the Mather
Memorial Highway. Open in the summer only, visitors may turn north
towards the Whiter River campground and Sunrise area or go south towards
the Stevens Canyon entrance and Ohanapecosh area. Closed in winter.

### Entrance Fees and Parking

Entrance fees do not cover camping fees. These different park passes are
accepted and sold at the entrance stations:

-   Seven-day vehicle pass for individuals or families is \$15.

-   Seven-day pass for pedestrians, motorcyclists or bicyclists is \$5
    per person.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   Mount Rainier Annual Pass for private vehicles is \$30.

-   National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Annual Pass, is
    \$80 and good for one year.

-   National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass - Senior Pass is
    available to U.S. residents over 62 years old and has a one-time
    cost of \$10.

-   National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass - Access Pass is
    available to U.S. residents with permanent disabilities at no cost.

-   National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass - Volunteer Pass is
    available to volunteers who log over 500 hours after January 1,
    2007.

Overnight parking is allowed at the lodges, campgrounds or backcountry
trailheads with a valid permit.

**Getting Around the Park**

The main park roads are two-lane, paved highways with numerous twisting
turns and narrow shoulders. Year-round access is on WA 706 from the
Nisqually Entrance to Paradise about 19 miles away. The Stevens Canyon
Road cuts across the southeast edge of the park and the 21-mile stretch
from Paradise to the east side is open from June to October. The east
side highways, WA 410 and WA 123, are generally open from May to late
October. It is about 15 miles from the Stevens Canyon Entrance to the
White River Entrance. The road from the White River turnoff to Sunrise
is 15 miles long and is generally open from July to early October.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Shuttle buses picking up passengers at Longmire;
DFagan_MORA_Shuttle buses

Due to construction at Paradise, a free shuttle service operated in the
summer between Ashford, Longmire, Cougar Rock Campground and Paradise.
In 2009, the National Park Service will review the shuttle system and
determine its future. If the system is approved, check the park's
newspaper *The Tahoma* for a map and schedule.

### Visitor Centers

There are four visitor centers in the park: the Henry M. Jackson
Memorial Visitor Center, Sunrise Visitor Center, Ohanapecosh Visitor
Center, and the Longmire Museum. In addition, there are ranger stations
at the White River and Carbon River entrances and a Wilderness
Information Center in Longmire.

**The Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center** at Paradise opened in
2008 and replaced the one built in 1966. The visitor center has
exhibits, an audiovisual program, an information desk, and a sales area
with books, maps and gift items for sale. Open daily in summer from
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; call the park for winter hours.

**The Ohanapecosh Visitor Center**, located at the Ohanapecosh
campground, is generally open late May through early October, 9:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. daily. There are exhibits, an information desk and a small
sales area with books and maps. Check out the large tree cross-section
outside the center.

**The Sunrise Visitor Center** is located in Sunrise and has exhibits,
an information desk and a small sales area with books and maps.
Generally open from July through early September, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00
p.m. daily. The Visitor Center is near the Sunrise Day Lodge.

**The Longmire Museum** is housed in the park's first administrative
building constructed in 1916. The museum has exhibits, an information
desk and a small sales area with books, maps and postcards. Open
year-round from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Across from the museum is
the **Longmire Wilderness Information Center** that is open daily from
7:30 am - 5:00 p.m. daily generally from June to mid-October. Wilderness
camping and climbing permits and information may be picked up here.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Longmire Wilderness Information Center:
DFagan_MORA_Longmire Wilderness Information Center

**White River Wilderness Information Center**, located at the White
River Entrance, is open from 7:30 am - 4:30 p.m. daily from June to
mid-October. Wilderness camping and climbing permits, and information
may be picked up here.

**Carbon River Ranger Station**, located at the Carbon River Entrance,
provides information and wilderness and camping permits for Ipsut Creek
campground. Call for hours.

**TIP**: Call Mount Rainier National Park's recorded information at
(360) 569-2211 for current road and weather conditions or check the
Mount Rainier Recreational Forecast at
www.atmos.washington.edu/data/rainier_report.htm.

**Visitor Services**

A variety of visitor services and amenities are offered in the park in
summer, with more limited options in winter.

**Church services.** Available in the park in summer; check for times
and locations at the visitor centers or campground bulletin boards.
Available outside the park year-round.

**Emergencies and medical services**. Dial 911 to report an emergency.
Twenty-four hour emergency care is provided in Enumclaw or Centralia.

-   Enumclaw Regional Hospital: 1450 Battersby Avenue, Enumclaw,
    WA; (360) 825-2505;
    [www.enumclawhospital.org](http://www.enumclawhospital.org/).

-   Providence Centralia Hospital, 914 South Schueber Road, Centralia,
    WA 98531; (360) 736-2803; www.providence.org

**Food.** The National Park Inn and Paradise Inn have restaurants, and
the Sunrise Day Lodge and Paradise Inn have snack bars.

**Gasoline.** Available outside the park.

**Lodging.** Mount Rainier Guest Services, Inc. operates 2 lodges in the
park. The National Park Inn at Longmire has 25 rooms and the Paradise
Lodge has 121 rooms.

**Lost and found.** Report lost or found items at a visitor center.

**Postal Services.** There is a U.S. Post Office in the Paradise Inn and
National Park Inn at Longmire.

**Restrooms.** Facilities with flush toilets and running water may be
found in Longmire, Paradise, Sunrise and in the park's campgrounds,
except Ipsut Creek and Mowich Lake which have vault toilets and no
water. Water is available at the Box Canyon Overlook.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Ohanapecosh Campground; DFagan_MORA_Ohanapecosh
campground

### Other visitor services such as banks, camera supplies, laundromats, mechanics, Internet access, public showers, and medical or dental services are available in Packwood or Ashford.

### Park Rules

**Bicycles.** Mountain bikes or road bikes are allowed on park roads but
not the trails. Wear a helmet and be aware of vehicles.

**Camping.** There are 3 vehicle accessible campgrounds at Cougar Rock,
Ohanapecosh and White River. The Sunshine Point campground closed due to
the 2006 floods. Two walk-in campgrounds are located at Mowich Lake and
Ipsut Creek. Backpackers can obtain a free wilderness camping permit at
the Longmire Wilderness Information Center or other ranger stations.
Over 97% of the park is managed as wilderness. Group size is limited to
5 people or one immediate family.

# Firearms. Shooting or displaying firearms or other weapons are prohibited.

**Fires.** Fire grates are provided at campgrounds except Mowich Lake.
Bring in your own wood or charcoal and make sure your fire is
extinguished before you leave the site. Backcountry fires are not
allowed.

**Pets**. Pets are allowed on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) and under
control at all times in the picnic areas, campgrounds and parking lots.
Pets are not allowed in buildings, in non-developed areas or on trails,
except for thru hikers on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.
Service dogs assisting people with disabilities are exempt. Clean up
after your pet and properly dispose of solid waste.

**Permits.** For climbing above 10,000 feet, alpine travel and
wilderness camping, permits are required. Permits are free of charge.

**Trails.** Stay on marked trails especially in the subalpine meadows,
which are easily damaged by off-trail hiking.

**Wildlife.** Help keep park animals wild by not feeding them or leaving
food scraps in campsites or picnic areas. Use the food storage poles to
store food from bears in backcountry sites. Do not approach wildlife or
disturb them.

#### 

#### Safety

**Accidents and falls**. There are numerous unfenced overlooks and steep
cliffs in the park. Stay on marked trails and stay back from edges. Be
aware of uneven surfaces. In case of an accident, dial 911 or seek first
aid at a visitor center or ranger station.

**Altitude.** Much of Mount Rainier is above 6,000 feet in elevation, so
be aware of nausea, shortness of breath, headaches, or dizziness. If you
are under a physician's care, consult with your doctor before visiting
the park.

**Clothing.** Weather conditions can change dramatically in the park.
Bring warm clothing, raingear and sturdy footwear for the trails. Be
prepared for rain and snow even in summer.

**Insects.** Apply insect repellant or wear long-sleeved shirts and
pants if insects become bothersome. If you are allergic to bee stings,
carry a bee kit.

**Storms.** Weather at Mount Rainier may change quickly and
dramatically, so be aware of weather conditions and seek appropriate
shelter. Generally, thunderstorms occur in the afternoon, so plan your
higher elevation hikes for the morning hours. In wet or cold weather,
maintain body heat by using a layering system of clothes, eating food
and drinking water. Be alert for physical changes in yourself and your
companions; hypothermia (lowering of the body's core temperature) can be
a life-threatening situation.

**Volcanic Hazards.** Mount Rainier is "episodically active."
Earthquakes may occur, and be aware of rapidly rising water levels due
to rainfall or snowmelt. Floods and debris flows may occur in river
valleys; seek higher ground and do not go downstream.

### Water. Backcountry users should treat or boil water from natural sources for 2-3 minutes.

**INSERT PHOTO:** View from Bench Lake of Mount Rainier;
DFagan_MORA_Bench Lake

#### 

#### Weather

Long winters and short summers are the rule at Mount Rainier.
Moisture-laden winds from the Pacific Ocean rise upwards as they
encounter Mount Rainier and drop incredible amounts of precipitation in
the form of rain and snow. Summer has average daytime highs in the 60s
or 70s depending upon elevation and lows in the 30s or 40s at night.
Rain is possible almost every day of the year. Some summers, snow may
remain at the 5,000 to 8,000 foot elevation into July! During the winter
of 1998-99 over 1,030 inches of snow fell at Paradise. Be prepared for
all types of weather by bringing warm clothing and raingear.

# Important Park Contact Numbers

**Emergency:** 911

**General park information:** (360) 569-2211

### Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise: (360) 569-6036

### Longmire Museum: (360) 569-2211 ext. 3314

**Ohanapecosh Visitor Center:** (360) 569-6046

**Sunrise Visitor Center**: (360) 663-2425

**Longmire Wilderness Information Center:** (360) 569-HIKE

**Carbon River Ranger Station:** (360) 829-9639

**White River Wilderness Information Center:** (360) 569-2211 ext. 6030

**National Recreation Reservation System, campgrounds:** (877) 444-6777;

**Mount Rainier Guest Services, Lodging:** (360) 569-2275

**Discover Your Northwest:** (360) 596-2211 ext. 3320

**Mount Rainier Visitor Association:** (877) 617-9950

**Lost and Found:** (360) 569-2211

# 

# History: Key things about the park

**INSERT PHOTO:** Lava flow along Sunrise Road; DFagan_MORA_Lava flow

Mount Rainier is rich in geologic and cultural history, from the early
Native Americans to the establishment of the park. In 1883, a geologist
named Baily Willis called Mount Rainier "an awful power clad in beauty."

# Geological History

Mount Rainier National Park is a geologic park dominated by the massive
mountain itself. Compared to surrounding peaks in the Cascade Range that
are 12 million years older, Mount Rainier is relatively young having
formed about 500,000 to 1 million years ago. The mountain was created by
a series of eruptions and lava flows that built up a steep-side mountain
atop older volcanic rock. The magma that flowed from these eruptions
came from deep within the earth's crust.

Mount Rainier is not a stand-alone volcano. The mountain is part of a
chain known as the Cascade Range that stretches from Lassen Peak in
California to Mount Girabaldi in British Columbia. This mountain range
is also part of a greater zone of volcanic and earthquake activity known
as the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped zone that encircles the
Pacific Ocean.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Mount Rainier from Sunrise Point; DFagan_MORA_Sunrise
Point

The Ring of Fire indicates the boundary where massive tectonic plates
shift and collide with one another. In the Pacific Northwest the
lighter, oceanic Juan de Fuca plate slides beneath the heavier,
continental North American plate. Moving at a rate of one to two inches
a year, the dipping Juan de Fuca plate eventually melts into magma deep
beneath the earth's crust. Under a great deal of pressure from the
crust, this magma seeks an escape route to the surface, through
fractures or volcanic peaks.

During the formation of Mount Rainier, magma reached the surface
numerous times and eventually built a peak estimated to be 16,000 feet
above sea level. At times the lava flowed along the edges of ancient
glaciers, forming steep-sided ridges radiating outwards from the
mountain. The remains from one such flow are visible along the road to
Sunrise.

Born of fire and sculpted by ice, the massive glaciers on the ancient
mountain began to succumb to the pull of gravity. As the glaciers moved
downslope over ridges and valleys, they scoured and smoothed down the
bedrock below it. In addition, freezing and thawing cycles broke rocks
apart, which moved during rockslides. These processes of erosion
continue today, slowly wearing down the mountain.

A relatively recent (in geologic terms) event occurred about 5,600 years
ago. A small eruption collapsed a portion of the upper rim, resulting in
fast-moving debris and mudflow. Called the Osceola Mudflow, this mudflow
or lahar sent a slurry of debris, mud, trees and rock down both forks of
the White River, eventually reaching Puget Sound. During this event, the
mountain lost over a thousand feet of elevation. Later eruptions formed
the overlapping summit craters. The mountain's last eruption occurred
roughly 150 years ago, sending small amounts of pumice and gases
hurtling from the summit.

Rainier is not finished. To better understand the mountain's status,
scientists have placed seismometers inside and outside the park to
record earthquakes and volcanic tremors. The mountain is defined as
"episodically active," meaning it has and will erupt again, but is
relatively quiet at this time. Visitors should be aware of the dynamic
nature of Mount Rainier and the power of this beauty.

# Human History

It is ironic that Mount Rainier is named for a man who never saw his
namesake. Captain George Vancouver in 1792 was leading a British
expedition along the Pacific Coast and spied the mountain from his
anchorage in Puget Sound. He named the peak after his friend and British
naval officer Peter Rainier, who would later reach the title of Rear
Admiral.

Long before Vancouver, Native Americans of the Nisqually, Yakama,
Puyallup, Muckleshoot, Klicitat, and Upper Cowlitz tribes had been
venturing into the mountains for centuries. They hunted game, collected
plants and berries, and witnessed some of the mountain's eruptions.
Evidence of their presence has been uncovered by archaeologists from
artifacts recovered in rock shelters in the park and elsewhere, as well
as from stories passed down through generations.

It wasn't until 1833 that a white man ventured near Rainier. A Hudson
Bay Company doctor named William Fraser Tolmie traveled to the area from
Fort Nisqually, between today's Tacoma and Olympia, Washington. Tolmie
wanted to collect medicinal plants and specimens new to science. Guided
by Lahalet, a headman from a Nisqually village, this marked the
beginning of "guiding" by Native tribesmen.

U.S. Army Lieutenant August Valentine Kautz is often credited with the
first attempted ascent of the mountain. From Fort Steilacoom (near Fort
Nisqually) Kautz was joined by two privates -- Nicholas Douge and
William Carroll - and Doctor Robert Orr Craig in 1857. Another Nisqually
man named Wapowety led the group to the mountain. They reached a spot
roughly 400 feet below the highest summit; the "cleaver" between Kautz
and Nisqually glaciers is named for Wapowety. The first successful and
documented summiting was in 1870 by Hazard Stevens and Philemon Beecher
Van Trump. One of their guides, James Longmire, would later on settle
near some mineral springs and build a health resort around the area that
bears his name -- Longmire.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Hot springs at Longmire; DFagan_MORA_Longmire hot
springs

During these early years, settlers and prospectors were slowly moving
into the lowland areas in the Northwest. The Northern Pacific Railroad
laid tracks along the Carbon River providing access to this
resource-rich land. As tourists, miners, loggers, and sheepherders began
to explore or utilize the area, by 1890 the public was raising concerns
over impacts to the area's natural resources by these private
individuals and public corporations. What had once seemed to be a vast
and endless wealth of resources, along with the new concept of
conservation in the United States, ignited the public's interest that
this area be protected.

## **The National Park Idea**

There was no single champion who fought for the establishment of Mount
Rainier National Park. Mountaineers had been reaching the summit for
years and others echoed their calls for a national park. The Northern
Pacific Railroad lobbied for legislation to create the park, and they
would later benefit by exchanging thousands of acres of rock and ice for
lowland timberlands outside the park. Scientists and conservationists
like John Wesley Powell, Bernhard Fernow, C. Hart Merriam, Joseph
LeConte, P.B. Van Trump, H. Stevens, and John Muir also proclaimed that
the unique plants and animals and scenic grandeur should be protected.
Muir, for whom Camp Muir is named, wrote that Rainier's meadows were
"...the most extravagantly beautiful of all the Alpine gardens I ever
beheld in my mountain-top ramblings." Local Seattle and Tacoma
businessmen were also in favor, perhaps more as an economic endeavor to
boost tourism and trade in the Northwest.

President Benjamin Harrison created a Pacific Forest Reserve in 1893.
The Mountain's summit was included within this forty square mile
preserve, but its westside glaciers were outside the boundary. Congress
enlarged and renamed the preserve to the Mount Rainier Forest Reserve in
1897. With the proposal of establishing a national park on the table,
the Northern Pacific Railroad advocated for and was granted land in the
public domain for their holdings within the park's proposed boundaries.
After several failed attempts, President William McKinely signed a bill
on March 2, 1899 establishing the nation's fifth national park, Mount
Rainier. Seventeen years later, Congress created the National Park
Service to manage its national treasures.

# Flora and Fauna: All things great and small

**INSERT PHOTO:** Wildflowers in Paradise; DFagan_MORA_Wildflowers in
meadow

From the lowland temperate rainforests along the Carbon River to the
alpine world of rock and ice, there is a tremendous diversity of plants
and animals that live in Mount Rainier National Park. Elevation plays an
important role in the distribution of life zones or habitats that are
found in the park. Lower elevation sites are warmer and drier than those
at higher elevation, and the flora and fauna that live in these life
zones are well suited for those elevations. Of the almost 900 species of
plants that grow in the park, 100 are introduced species.

### Life Zones

Life zones are nature's neighborhoods. Each zone is characterized by
certain plants that provide food and shelter for wildlife. Some plants
and animals are restricted to certain life zones, while others are more
widely distributed. Across the park's 12,700-foot elevation range there
are 4 different life zones.

# Lowland Forest Zone

Starting in the lowest elevations, this zone stretches from around 2,000
to 2,900 feet above sea level. Towering Douglas firs, western hemlocks,
and western red cedar trees grow in old-growth forests. Some trees are
over 250 feet tall and over 100 inches wide. The dense forests block out
sunlight so that plants like vanilla leaf or Devil's club growing on the
forest floor have large leaves to absorb the available light.
Approximately 53% of the park is covered in low elevation forests.

Besides the coniferous trees there are deciduous trees like big-leaf
maple, red alder and black cottonwood. These hardwoods grow along the
streams and river\'s edge and provide contrasting color to the conifer's
dark green in autumn. Within these forests wildlife such as barred owls,
varied thrushes, beavers, Douglas squirrels, and coyotes roam.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Big-leaf maple in autumn; DFagan_MORA_Big-leaf maple

**Pacific Silver Fir Zone**

# From 2,900 feet to 4,500 feet the lowland forests give way to Pacific silver fir, noble fir, western white pine, western hemlock, and Douglas fir trees. Goatsbeard, rhododendron, mountain ash, and huckleberries are common understory plants in this zone. Trees form dense patches, but not as extensive as in the lower elevations. Ruffed grouse, red-tailed hawk, olive-sided flycatcher, mountain beaver, martin, black bear, and elk are some of the wildlife found in this zone. 

## **Subalpine Zone**

Above 4,500 feet to about 6,000 feet is the Subalpine Zone known for its
mountain hemlock, whitebark pine, Alaska yellow cedar and Engelmann
spruce. Where the trees are exposed to high winds and deep snows, their
stunted and twisted growth indicates the harsh conditions in which these
trees survive. Most notable in this zone are the profusion of summer
wildflowers like western pasqueflower, subalpine lupine, bracted
lousewort, magenta paintbrush, and Sitka valerian. Small clusters of
trees are spaced amongst open meadows; approximately 23% of the park is
within the subalpine zone. Wildlife here includes rufous hummingbirds,
horned larks, Clark's nutcrackers, American robins, golden-mantled
ground squirrels, Townsend's chipmunks, and black-tailed deer.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Subalpine fir trees; DFagan_MORA_Subalpine fir trees

### Alpine Zone

The alpine zone starts between 6,000 and 7,500 feet depending upon
aspect and continues up into the blue ice world at the summit. This is
the treeless zone and where the plants are low growing, seemingly barely
rising above the ground. Growing amongst the rocks and thin soils are
mosses, grasses, Tolmie's saxifrage, moss campion, Newberry's knotweed,
and mountain harebells. Gray-crowned rosy finches, white-crowned
sparrows, white-tailed ptarmigan, golden eagles, hoary marmots, and
pikas are some of the wildlife you may encounter in this zone.

# 

# Wildlife

There are excellent opportunities to view wildlife in the park. Numbers
of species include 229 birds, 53 mammals, 17 reptiles and amphibians,
and 8 fish.

**Northern Flying Squirrels** are nocturnal, thus they are rarely
observed. Although not able to truly fly, these squirrels have a thin
membrane of furred skin that extends down their bodies and along their
legs. This membrane fans out like a cape as the squirrels leap and glide
from tree to tree. Found in coniferous forests, these squirrels do not
hibernate in winter.

**Northern spotted owls** also live in the park's coniferous forests.
These large owls lack ear tufts and have dark eyes. Their distinctive
four-note call sounds more like a bark, than a hoot. The owls feed on
small rodents, flying squirrels and an occasional bat. A close relative
the barred owl also occurs in the park.

**Black bears** roam throughout the park and their coats may vary from
black to brown to cinnamon. They have large, compact bodies and round
ears and are truly an exciting sight. Feeding mostly on insects,
berries, leaves, flowers, roots, and carrion, these animals consume
thousands of calories in the late summer and fall to have enough fat
reserves to survive their winter hibernation.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Black bear cub; DFagan_MORA_Black bear

**Wildlife Viewing Tips**

-   Good places to see wildlife are Sunrise (mountain goat, marmot,
    pika), Paradise (deer, mountain goat, ground squirrels), Tipsoo Lake
    (Cascade frogs, elk), and Longmire (deer).

-   Keep a pair of binoculars handy for bird watching or looking at
    certain species like elk and bears. Keep a safe distance between you
    and large mammals.

-   Be quiet and don't make sudden movements to disturb the wildlife.

-   Don't harass or crowd the wildlife as this may cause them to flee.

-   If watching wildlife from your car, remember to use pullouts and not
    to block the road.

-   Remember to not feed wildlife. Tempting as it may be, animals that
    get use to human food may become aggressive or obnoxious pests. Use
    the bear poles in backcountry campsites to hang your food and clean
    up food scraps in your campsite.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Mountain goat; DFagan_MORA_Mountain goat

**Mountain goats** are nimble-footed animals of the high country that
feed on plants in the upper subalpine and alpine zones. The hard outer
ring of their hooves surrounds a softer, spongy area that gives them
excellent traction. Both males and females have narrow, black horns,
although the billy's (the male) are thicker and arc backwards more than
the nanny's. In summer, the goats dig dusting pits in which they lie or
roll to shed their thick winter coats. Keep an eye out for them on
snowfields, as they "chill out."

**Hoary marmots** are very social creatures. They live in underground
burrows near scree slopes or rocky outcrops. They are often observed
lounging around atop boulders or on snowfields. When danger approaches,
marmots will run for cover and may let out a shrill whistle warning
others. Unlike the hamster-sized pika that also lives in rocky areas and
is active in winter, marmots spend seven or eight months in winter
hibernation.

**Bear and Mountain Lion Encounters**

Your chances of encountering a bear or mountain lion in the park are
slim. Understanding their actions will help avoid any conflicts. Here
are some tips to minimize those encounters.

-   Hike in a group, not alone

-   Keep children close by, not scattered along the trail

-   Avoid running away as this trigger the animal's predator-prey
    reflexes

-   Don't approach a bear cub or mountain lion kitten as the adults may
    be near by

-   Back away slowly from a bear, even if it doesn't seem to see you

-   Talk loudly

-   If the bear charges and stops, back away slowly from the area

-   In really rare situations, if a bear continues to approach, drop and
    curl into a ball with your face down and your hands over your neck

-   If charged by a mountain lion, yell and wave your arms to appear
    larger, do not run

-   Fight back with a stick or throw dirt in its eyes, protect your neck

-   Report any bear or mountain lion encounters to a ranger or call park
    dispatch at (360) 569-2211 ext. 2334

**Horizons: Natural and historic sites**

**INSERT PHOTO:** View of the Tatoosh Range; DFagan_MORA_Tatoosh Range

Subalpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. The Mountain itself. Shiny
glaciers. Temperate rainforests. Spotted owls and flying squirrels.
Snowy white mountain goats. "Watermelon" snow. Massive old-growth
forests. Blazing autumn colors. Black bears. Lake reflections. Cascading
waterfalls. Lilies surrounded by snow. Whistling marmots. Buildings of
stone and wood. These are just a few of the amazing features to be found
in Mount Rainier National Park.

**Natural Wonders**

**Mount Rainier.** At 14,410 feet tall, Mount Rainier dominates the
skyline for miles around. When Northwesterners refer to "The Mountain"
there is no other. Formed by a series of eruptions and lava flows, the
mountain is fairly young between 500,000 and one million years old.
Rainier last erupted about 150 years ago, but steam still escapes from
the Columbia Crest's twin craters at the summit.

**Glaciers.** Twenty-six glaciers cling to the high slopes of Mount
Rainier. Glaciers form from snow that does not melt from year to year
and is compacted into ice by the weight of additional accumulation.
Gravity pulls the glacier downslope and scours and smoothes the bedrock
below. Scientists have documented the retreat of Rainier's glaciers, a
testament to global climate changes. Emmons Glacier covers 4.3 square
miles and the Carbon Glacier at 5.7 miles long is the lowest elevation
glacier in the lower 48 states.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Emmons Glacier; DFagan_MORA_Emmons Glacier

**Rivers and streams.** Where there's ice, there's water. Glaciers
provide an endless supply of water to feed the 470 rivers and streams in
the park. Where the water meets resilient rock, it cascades downwards
sometimes a few inches, sometimes hundreds of feet like the two-step
drop of Comet Falls.

**Rainforests.** Near the Carbon River Entrance there are patches of
lowland temperate rainforests, unusual in that most are found near
coastal areas. Massive western red cedars, Douglas firs and western
hemlocks thrive here where over 70 inches of rain falls each year. The
Carbon River Rainforest Trail forms a short 0.3-mile loop through this
ancient forest.

**Subalpine Zone.** Twenty-three percent of the park is subalpine
habitat. Buried under snow for most of the year, meadows in this zone
erupt with wildflowers in July and August. Numerous species grow in
profusion like subalpine lupine, magenta paintbrush, fan-leaf
cinquefoil, beargrass, avalanche lily, corn lily, and Lewis'
monkeyflowers where creeks slice through the meadows.

**Climbing Mount Rainier**

The Native Americans that lived around Mount Rainier never had a reason
to climb to its summit. A U.S. Army Lieutenant named August Valentine
Kautz is often credited with the first attempted ascent of the mountain.
The first successful and documented summitting was in 1870 by Hazard
Stevens and B. Van Trump. Another Nisqually Indian named Sluiskin guided
them; Sluiskin Falls is near the Stevens-Van Trump Historical Monument
along the Skyline Trail. Fay Fuller, a teacher from Yelm, was the first
woman to reach the mountain's summit in 1890. She wrote about her climb
in her father's Tacoma newspaper the *Every Sunday*, "...donned heavy
flannels, woolen hose, warm mittens and goggles, blackened my face with
charcoal to modify the sun's glare...grasped my alpenstock and was
resolved to climb until exhausted."

Since Fay Fuller's time, thousands of climbers have reached the summit,
and climbing gear has improved. In 2005, just under 9,000 climbers
attempted to reach the summit and about 4,600 of them made it. With a
9,000-foot elevation gain, there are many different routes to reach the
summit. Most climbers head up from Paradise to Camp Muir, located at
10,080 feet and camp out in the Muir Public Shelter named after John
Muir who recognized the pumice-covered ridge as a suitable high
elevation camp. From here, climbers depart in the early morning hours
after midnight, attempting to reach the summit and return before the
day's weather makes conditions more dangerous. The trip is physically
and mentally challenging, but incredibly rewarding at the same time.
Inexperienced climbers can contact one of the guide services to attempt
a summit climb (See Resources Section).

**Points of Interest**

**Longmire Historical District**. James Longmire settled this area in
1883 and built a hotel and spa for tourists to enjoy the natural mineral
springs and mountain setting. Called the Longmire Medical Springs, the
resort is long gone, but you can see some of the mineral springs along
the self-guided Trail of the Shadows just across from the National Park
Inn. Take the 1.25-mile round-trip Longmire Historic District walking
tour to see the rustic architectural styles and to learn more about the
Longmire's past.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Trail of the Shadows; DFagan_MORA_Trail of the Shadows

**Ricksecker Point.** Along the road to Paradise from Longmire is this
overlook that provides views of the Tatoosh Range, the remains of
ancient lava flows that occurred millions of years before Mount Rainier
formed. There is also an interpretive exhibit showing how the terminus
(end) of the Nisqually Glacier has changed over time.

**Paradise.** Appropriately named and the most visited spot in the park.
Summer meadows are filled with wildflowers and in winter there is a Snow
Play area for tubers and sledders, as well as ranger-guided snowshoe
walks. Visit the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center which opened
in 2008 or stroll along the connecting trails to the Paradise Inn for a
snack or meal.

**Box Canyon.** Here the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River has carved a
narrow gorge through the lava of Stevens Ridge. The 100-foot waterfall
here roars during the summer thaw, and evidence of glaciers sliding
across the rock is evident near the overlook.

**Grove of the Patriarchs.** Located near the Stevens Canyon Entrance, a
1.3-mile long loop trail follows the Ohanapecosh River and crosses over
to an island via a suspension bridge. The trail turns into a boardwalk
that leads you among gigantic, thousand-year-old western red cedars and
Douglas firs.

**Tipsoo Lake.** Located near Cayuse Pass on the park's eastern edge,
this small lake provides a stunning reflection and view of the mountain.
This is also a good lake to look or listen for Cascade frogs, one of the
native amphibians that survive in these high elevation lakes.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Mount Fremont Fire Lookout; DFagan_MORA_Mount Fremont
Fire Lookout

**Sunrise.** A great spot to view the morning light illuminating the
mountain, Sunrise also has summer meadows bursting with flowers. Trails
branch out from behind the visitor center or Sunrise Day Lodge, and head
up to Burroughs Mountain, Sourdough Ridge, and points beyond. Frozen
Lake, northwest of Sunrise, provides the drinking water for the Sunrise
area. Beyond Frozen Lake is the Mount Fremont Lookout, one of several
fire lookouts that were built in the park.

# Get Going: Activities in the Park

Whether you're after a rugged wilderness trek or a relaxing day in
nature, there are endless ways to spend your time in Mount Rainier
National Park. Take the auto tour from the Nisqually entrance to Sunrise
and view the ever-changing face of the mountain. Enjoy a short stroll
through subalpine meadows bursting with wildflowers or shoulder your
backpack for a multi-day hike along the Wonderland Trail. Whether it's a
night under the stars in one of the park's campgrounds or a stay at one
of the lodges, both offer great escapes from the hustle and bustle of
daily life. In winter, bring snowshoes or skis and explore a snow-filled
world.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Hikers on the Wonderland trail; DFagan_MORA_Wonderland
hikers

## **Hiking**

With over 260 miles of trails, there are many hiking options from short
strolls to challenging hikes. Choices vary by region of the park and
range from lowland old growth forests up to alpine tundra or the
mountain's summit. Remember to bring the 10 Essentials and be prepared
for rapidly changing weather.

INSERT: The 10 Essentials

1.  Map of area

2.  Compass

3.  Flashlight

4.  Extra food

5.  Extra clothing

6.  Sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hat

7.  Pocketknife

8.  Lighter/waterproof matches

9.  Candle/emergency fire starter

10. First aid kit

**TIP**: Many trails are not snow-free until June or July. Visit the
park's Web site at
<http://www.nps.gov/mora/>planyourvisit/wilderness-camping-and-hiking.htm
to view current trail conditions prior to your visit.

## **Longmire** 

## Trail of the Shadows

Length: 0.7 miles loop

Difficulty: Easy, 20-foot elevation gain

Start: Across the road from National Park Inn at Longmire

Numerous interpretive displays provide information about the area's
natural history and James Longmire who built a hotel and health spa here
in 1883.

Rampart Ridge

Length: 4.6 mile loop

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous; 1,300-foot elevation gain

Start: Across the road from the National Park Inn at Longmire, off of
the Trail of Shadows trail

This steep trail climbs through old growth forests to Rampart Ridge and
excellent views of the Longmire area and Mount Rainier.

## Paradise

Nisqually Vista Trail

Length: 1.4 mile loop

Difficulty: Easy; 200-foot elevation gain

Start: West side of Paradise

A popular hike through fields of avalanche lilies to outstanding views
of the Nisqually Glacier.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Nisqually Glacier; DFagan_MORA_Nisqually Glacier

Skyline Loop Trail

Length: 6 mile loop

Difficulty: Strenuous; 1,400-foot elevation gain

Start: Behind the Paradise Inn

A great loop hike around the Edith Basin area with mountain views,
wildflower meadows, waterfalls and a memorial to the first two climbers,
.

## INSERT: Map of Paradise area and hiking trails

**Ohanapecosh Area**

Grove of the Patriarchs

Length: 1.3 miles loop

Difficulty: Easy; 100-foot elevation gain

Start: Grove of the Patriarchs trailhead on the Stevens Canyon Road

This trail crosses the Ohanapecosh River and winds around huge old
growth western red cedars and Douglas fir trees. There are interpretive
displays along the trail. From the Ohanapecosh campground, hikers may
take a longer 5.1-mile hike connecting the Silver Falls Loop trail with
the Grove of the Patriarchs trail.

**Sunrise Area**

Mount Fremont Lookout Trail

Length: 5.4 mile loop

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous; 800-foot elevation gain

Start: Sunrise parking area

This trail follows Sourdough Ridge to Frozen Lake, the water supply for
the Sunrise area. From Frozen Lake proceed north towards the closed fire
lookout on Mount Fremont, watching for mountain goats and pikas along
the way.

Second Burroughs Mountain Trail

Length: 6.3 mile loop

Difficulty: Strenuous; 1,000-foot elevation gain

Start: Sunrise parking area

This loop follows Sourdough Ridge to Frozen Lake then veers to the
southwest and climbs up through the alpine tundra of Second Burroughs
Mountain to incredible views of the mountain. Watch for marmots basking
on snowfields along the way.

## Carbon River/Mowich Lake Area

Carbon Glacier Trail

Length: 7.0 mile round trip

Difficulty: Moderately strenuous; 1,000-foot elevation gain

Start: Ipsut Creek Campground

This trail climbs from the campground right to the snout of the lowest
elevation glacier in the lower 48 states, the Carbon Glacier. Flooding
in 2006 washed out portions of the Ipsut Creek road; hence, the 5-mile
road to the campground is only open to hikers or bicyclists. Check the
park's website for current conditions prior to your visit.

**INSERT MAP:** Sunrise Hiking trails

**Backpacking**

Hoisting your backpack and heading out into the backcountry is a great
way to experience Mount Rainier National Park. From overnight hikes up
to 2 week trips, there are endless trails to lead you into some wild
country. Overnight wilderness camping trips require a free permit, but
there is a charge for reservations. Reservation request forms may be
sent to the Longmire Wilderness Information Center by mail or fax
starting March 15^th^ each year. Include the \$20 reservation fee along
with your request. Trailside backcountry camps are limited to prevent
overcrowding, so reservations are highly recommended. Each camp has
primitive toilets, bear poles for food storage, and nearby water
sources. Party size is limited to 5 people or one immediate family, and
many locations have group camps for parties of 6-12 people. Remember to
follow Leave No Trace recommendations to minimize any impact on the
resource. First-come, first-served permits are also available and are
issued at the park up to 1 day prior to your departure. Visit the park's
Wilderness Reservation Information page for additional information on
alpine camping, as well as to download a reservation request form (See
Resources Chapter).

The Wonderland Trail (WT) is a 93-mile long trail encircles Mount
Rainier. There are numerous road entry points to the trail like
Longmire, Fryingpan Creek, Sunrise and Mowich Lake. The trail has a lot
of elevation gain and loss, so travel time depends primarily upon your
hiking abilities. Those seeking to hike the entire trail are limited to
18 designated and 3 non-designated campsites in planning their trip. WT
hikers are strongly encouraged to use the wilderness permit reservation
system to adequately space each night's campsite. Visit the Plan Your
Visit page on the park's Web site to assist your planning.

**Climbing**

Roughly 9,000 people a year attempt to gain the summit at Mount Rainier.
An estimated 50% percent make. A permit and annual Climbing Pass is
required for all private climbing parties. Guide services are also
available.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Mountain climbers; TBD

**Ranger-led Programs**

National Park rangers offer a variety of short talks, campfire programs,
and guided walks to help you learn about the park's cultural and natural
history. Check park bulletin boards and at the visitor centers or ranger
stations for times and locations of the programs.

## **Scenic Drives**

The main park road leads from old growth forests up to subalpine
meadows, across glacial-fed rivers and over mountain passes. Numerous
viewpoints and pullouts along the road offer exceptional views of the
mountain and many of the park's natural features. In summer fields of
wildflowers or wildlife sightings will entice you to stop along this
drive. Remember to use pullouts and not to just park alongside the road.

Table of driving mileage between points in Mount Rainier National Park.

+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| # FROM                | TO                    | Miles                 |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| Nisqually Entrance    | Longmire              | 7                     |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| Longmire              | Paradise              | 12                    |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| Paradise              | Stevens Canyon        | 21                    |
|                       | Entrance              |                       |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| Stevens Canyon        | Sunrise               | 30                    |
| Entrance              |                       |                       |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| White River Entrance  | Sunrise               | 15                    |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+

**INSERT PHOTO:** Stevens Canyon or Scenic view along the road;
DFagan_MORA_Stevens Canyon or DFagan_MORA_Box Canyon

The park road from the Nisqually entrance to Paradise climbs through
lowland old-growth forests and mountain meadows, with vistas opening up
to provide mountain views. About 3.5 miles from the entrance is Kautz
Creek picnic area and trailhead. Named after U.S. Army Lieutenant August
Valentine Kautz, this creek reflects nature's power where the floods of
2006 and mudflows of 1947 have dramatically changed the valley's forest
and creek.

Past Kautz Creek is Longmire, the area where James Longmire found
mineral springs and built the Longmire Medical Springs hotel and spa in
1890. Step back into time along the 1.25 mile walking tour through the
rustic buildings and museum in this Historic District. Even if you
aren't an overnight guest at the National Park Inn, you can have a meal
in the dining room or enjoy hot pie and ice cream on the front porch.
Relax in one of the rocking chairs and ponder the feat of climbing
Rainier. The Inn is open year-round.

From Longmire the park road heads to Paradise and passes the 163-foot
high Narada Falls. Summer weekend parking at Paradise may have you
wishing you took the free shuttle from Longmire or Ashford. However,
once you're on the trail, it is easy to see why everyone wants to visit
Paradise. Fields of avalanche lilies, lupine, louseworts, pasqueflower,
and arnica carpet the subalpine meadows and slopes. Clouds drift across
Nisqually Glacier, playing peekaboo with the mountain. No wonder it is
called Paradise.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Tipsoo Lake; DFagan_MORA_Tipsoo Lake

There is also the new Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center that
opened in 2008, along with the remodeled Paradise Inn. The rustic lodge
has a gift shop, snack bar, post office, restaurant, and 121 rooms. The
Inn is open from late May to early October.

Leaving Paradise, the main park road heads east towards Stevens Canyon.
Reflection Lakes and Box Canyon are well worth the stop before
connecting with WA 123 in the Ohanapecosh area.

The Native Americans gave this area its name, which may mean "standing
on the edge." The Ohanapecosh River cascades down Silver Falls and slips
past ancient trees along the Grove of the Patriarchs trail. At the
Stevens Canyon Entrance head south towards the visitor center or small
town of Packwood or head north towards the White River Entrance and
Sunrise.

The winding road up to Sunrise from White River is open from about July
to October, weather dependent. The Sunrise Ridge pullout is a great
photogenic location to catch sunrise illuminating Mount Rainier and to
see small dots of light as climber's headlamps illuminate their early
morning ascent. Like Paradise, the meadows around Sunrise erupt with
wildflowers in summer, having been buried a long time under snow. At the
Sunrise Visitor Center there are nameplates identifying many of the
wildflowers. Sunrise is another trail hub for day hikes or backpackers
heading out along the Wonderland Trail or over to Grand Park or the
Yellowstone Cliffs. The Sunrise Day Lodge serves food and also has a
gift shop; it is open from July through September. Keep an eye out for
mountain goats, black bears, deer and marmots in the area. The 0.5-mile
Emmons Vista Trail leads to great overlooks of the massive Emmons
Glacier that covers 4.3 square miles.

Keep a watchful eye out for bicyclists and wildlife along the main road.
There are numerous picnic areas with restrooms along the drive, as well.
Be safe and use the pullouts and parking areas to enjoy the magical
views of the mountain.

TIP: Prior to your visit, check current road conditions on the park's
Web site [www.nps.gov/mora](http://www.nps.gov/mora) or call (360)
569-2211. Be prepared for snowy conditions, even in summer.

**INSERT PHOTO**: Snowshoers or skiers at Paradise;
DFagan_MORA_Snowshoers

**Winter Activities**

Winter rules at Mount Rainier. As snow blankets much of the park, bears
and marmots hibernate. Above the surface, snowshoe hares and ptarmigans
turn snowy white and stay active during this season. In the winter of
1971-72, the park set a world record for snowfall -- 1122 inches!

Skiers and snowshoers, snowboarders and tubers take advantage of this
season and head to the Snow Play area at Paradise or head out on the
trails. Park rangers conduct guided snowshoe walks on weekends from the
Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, and the Ski Touring Center at
Longmire offers rentals for cross-country skiers.

**Just for Families**

There are many activities the whole family can enjoy at Mount Rainier
National Park. Bring a ten and camp out beneath the stars. Join a Junior
Ranger program or attend an evening talk in the campground. Hike a trail
and look for wildlife and wildflowers. Explore a glacier. Sign up for a
ranger-led snowshoe walk or bring your cross-country skis to explore
this winter wonderland. Check for current programs and times at the
visitor centers or campground bulletin boards.

"*If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the
companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with
him the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in*.\" - Rachel
Carson

# Be a Junior Ranger

This popular program is geared for children ages six to twelve. Hundreds
of kids participate in the Mount Rainier National Park Junior Ranger
program offered on summer weekends throughout the park or daily in the
Paradise area. To become a Junior Ranger kids have to do three things.
First, pick up a free activity book at one of the visitor centers and
complete at least four of the six pages. Second, attend one of the
fun-filled Junior Ranger programs that are 30-45 minutes long. Third,
attend at least one other ranger-led activity in the park. When you're
done, bring your activity booklet to a visitor center to get your Junior
Ranger badge and certificate! Check with the visitor centers and
campground bulletin boards for times and locations of these Junior
Ranger Programs.

# Join in Ranger Adventures

Participating in a ranger-led activity is a great way to learn about
Mount Rainier and its natural wonders. The park service offers guided
hikes, talks and evening programs throughout the park, and brings in
various experts for in-depth topics about Mount Rainer. A unique program
at Longmire is the ranger-guided Lantern Tour along the Trail of Shadows
where historical characters come to life. These 90-minute tours depart
from the National Park Inn every 20 minutes between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30
p.m. Check the park's newspaper *The Tahoma* or the bulletin boards at
the visitor centers and campgrounds for program times, locations and
topics.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Subalpine lupine or beargrass; DFagan_MORA_subalpine
lupine or DFagan_MORA_beargrass

In winter, ranger-guided snowshoe walks explore the winter wonderland of
Paradise. Bring your own snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park for a
\$1 donation. The walks start in mid-December and run through March.
Suitable for families with children eight-years of age or older the 2
hour walks cover a little more than 1 mile. Limited to 25 people per
walk, a sign-up sheet is available at the Jackson Visitor Center. Walks
are offered twice a day from mid-December to early January, and then
only on weekends up through March. Check with the visitor center for
times and meeting location.

A variety of summer programs are offered each day in different areas of
the park. The following programs include location, time and round-trip
distance. Join the Mountain Legacy Walk (30 minutes, 0.5 mile) through
the Longmire area to learn about the history and establishment of Mount
Rainier National Park. Explore the Ohanapecosh area on one of the
Ohanapecosh Adventures (45 minutes) or meet up with a ranger along the
Grove of the Patriarchs trail for an on-site chat about these
interesting woodlands. Investigate the Sunrise area on one of the
Sunrise Morning Strolls (30 minutes, 0.5 mile) or Sunrise Afternoon
Walks (30 minutes, 0.5 mile) or meet the ranger at the Sunrise Picnic
Area to uncover some clues about the flora and fauna at the Sunrise
Secrets talk (30-40 minutes). Visitors to the Paradise area might join a
Meadow Meander (1 hour, 1 mile) or a Nisqually Vista Walk (1 hour, 1.2
miles) and learn about subalpine meadows, glaciers and more. The
Paradise Evening Stroll (45 minutes, 1 mile) is a chance to walk through
the natural and cultural history of Paradise. Of course, there are also
the traditional Evening Programs held in the campgrounds or at the
Paradise Inn Lobby (30-45 minutes).

In addition to the ranger programs, the three visitor centers have
exhibits and displays about the natural and cultural history of the
area, as well as 3-D maps that give you an eagle's view of the park. The
Longmire Museum, housed in the park's original administrative office,
has historical photographs and artifacts from the Native cultures found
in and around the park.

# Take a Hike 

Short or long hikes, there are a wonderful variety of trails for the
family to enjoy and discover some of the secrets of Mount Rainier. Keep
your eyes open for treasures along the trail like animal tracks, birds,
wildflowers, butterflies, pine cones, wildlife, and a lot more.
Discovering a pika calling from a rockslide or seeing a mountain goat
climbing up a steep rocky ridge surely make for great nature moments.
Here are some family-friendly hikes, in addition to those listed in the
Get Going chapter.

**Twin Firs Loop Trail** is a 0.4-mile long loop through an old-growth
forest of Douglas fir, mountain hemlock and western red cedar trees.
Located 2 miles west of Longmire, this impressive forest reminds us of
what the early loggers encountered.

**Silver Falls Trail** can be extended to a 3.0 mile round-trip walk.
Hike along the Ohanapecosh River to Silver Falls, and then return to the
campground via the self-guided nature trail behind the Ohanapecosh
Visitor Center. You'll pass by the site of the old Ohanapecosh Hot
Springs Resort.

## **INSERT PHOTO:** Silver Falls; DFagan_MORA_Silver Falls

**Sourdough Ridge Trail** is a 1 mile loop in the Sunrise area. The
trail passes through subalpine meadows bursting with summer wildflowers
to the ridge, which offers great views of four volcanoes -- Mount
Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount Adams and Glacier Peak. Keep an eye out for
mountain goats and black bears!

**Carbon River Rain Forest Trail** is a 0.5-mile loop that wanders
through an old-growth forest of massive Sitka spruce, Douglas fir and
western red cedar trees. The area gets 70-90 inches of rain a year so
bring your rain jacket!

## **Hey Ranger! Q & A Just for Kids**

Q.  **How big is the mountain?**

![](media/image1.png){width="0.7291666666666666in"
height="0.7291666666666666in"}**A.** Mount Rainier's official height is
14,410' above sea level.

**Q. When will Mount Rainier erupt?**

A. No one knows for sure. Researchers monitor seismic and volcanic
activity with different equipment both inside and outside of the park.
They consider Mount Rainier to be "episodically active," meaning it has
been active in the past and will be active again in the future.

**Q. Do mountain goats have horns or antlers?**

A. Horns. Unlike deer and elk that have branched antlers that are shed
every year, mountain goat horns are unbranched and never shed. The horns
grow throughout the goat's lifetime. Male mountain goats are called
"billies" and females are called "nannies." Young goats are called
"kids."

**Q. What is a "mountain beaver baseball?"**

A. Mountain beavers are large rodents that eat plants, especially sword
and bracken ferns, and live in wooded areas from sea level to the
subalpine zone. They look like a large guinea pig more than an American
beaver that lives in rivers and lakes. Mountain beavers dig underground
tunnels and burrows, occasionally storing large stones or lumps of clay
in these burrows. They gnaw on these "baseballs" to sharpen their teeth
and even use them to block a burrow entrance.

**Q. What is a glacier?**

A. Glaciers are large masses of ice that form where snow accumulation is
greater than snow melt each year. New snow buries the old snow and the
weight compacts the old snow into hard ice. The lower end of a glacier
is called the terminus and large cracks called crevasses open up on the
glacier's surface.

**Spot Wildlife**

Watch for wildlife throughout the park. You might see some of the larger
mammals like Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, mountain goats, black
bears, coyotes, or red foxes. Smaller creatures like golden-mantled
ground squirrels, hoary marmots, American pikas, and chipmunks are
pretty common, especially in the subalpine meadows and rocky slopes. If
you visit one of the many lakes, listen for calls of Cascade frogs or
Western toads, two of the park's amphibians that survive in these cold
waters. In addition to the mammals and amphibians, Mount Rainier is a
great place to birdwatch because there are many different life zones in
the park that birds live in. Clark's nutcrackers, red-breasted
nuthatches, American robins, common ravens, and mountain chickadees are
just some of the numerous bird species you may encounter. Listen for
great horned or barred owls calling at night. Remember to view wildlife
from a safe distance with binoculars or use a telephoto lens for picture
taking. It is illegal to feed wildlife; birds and animals may become
aggressive pests or fearless of humans if they are fed. Help keep the
wildlife wild!

## **Recharge: Places to sleep and eat**

Although most of Mount Rainier is wild and rugged, there are
accommodations and concessions to help you enjoy your stay. Whether you
want to camp out beneath tall trees in one of the park's campgrounds or
enjoy the comforts of a historic lodge, you have plenty of options from
which to choose. If you have other needs, check out the gateway towns of
Ashford, Elbe, Enumclaw, and Packwood (see the Beyond the Borders
chapter).

### Campsites

There are 473 individual campsites in the park's three campgrounds that
are accessible by car: Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh and White River. Each
site has a picnic table and fire grate and is limited to a maximum of 6
people (or one immediate family) and two tents. Wood collecting is not
allowed; bring your own wood. There are no showers or RV hook-ups in the
park. If you are in need of hookups, check out one of the private
campgrounds outside of the park.

Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh campgrounds are located on the southwest and
southeast sides, respectively, and are open from late May to early
October. Cougar Rock is 2.3 miles north of Longmire and Ohanapecosh is
11 miles north of Packwood off WA 123. Between them there are 361
individual sites and 6 group sites. These campgrounds have flush
toilets, water, refuse/recycling cans, and dump stations, as well as an
amphitheater for programs and hiking trails. Reservations are highly
recommended for these sites between June and Labor Day; unreserved sites
are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the National
Recreation Reservation Service at (877)-444-6777; (877) 833-6777 (TDD);
(518) 885-3639 (International); or via their Web site at
http://www.recreation.gov.

**INSERT PHOTO:** Warning sign in White River Campground;
DFagan_MORA_White River campground sign

The White River campground, open from late June to mid-September, has
112 individual sites. The campsites are available on a first-come,
first-served basis only. The White River campground has flush toilets
and drinking water.

Two other campsites, Ipsut Creek and Mowich Lake, are walk-in sites
only. The Carbon River Road from the Carbon Creek entrance to Ipsut
Creek closed due to the 2006 floods and may not be repaired all the way
to the campground. The 29 sites are open to hikers with a wilderness
camping permit; it is a 5-mile hike from the Carbon River entrance to
Ipsut Creek.

The Mowich Lake Campground, located 6 miles from the park boundary on WA
165, has 30 walk-in campsites. Water is not available and fires are not
allowed. The campground is generally open from late June to early
October. The unpaved road to the campground may be in rough condition;
check the road status prior to your visit. A wilderness camping permit
is required.

The Sunshine Point campground was heavily damaged during the 2006 floods
and was closed. Check the park's website for current conditions.

  -------------- --------- ----------- ----------- ------------ ------------
  Campground     Total     Dump        Reserve     Fees         Open
                 Sites     Stations                             

  Cougar Rock    173       Yes         Yes         \$12-15      May-Oct.

  Ohanapecosh    188       Yes         Yes         \$12-15      May-Oct.

  White River    112       No          No          \$12         June-Sept.

  Ipsut Creek    29        No          No -- walk  Free, Need   Year-round
                                       in only     Wilderness   
                                                   Camping      
                                                   Permit       

  Mowich Lake    30        No          No -- walk  Free, Need   June-Oct.
                                       in only     Wilderness   
                                                   Camping      
                                                   Permit       
  -------------- --------- ----------- ----------- ------------ ------------

# Lodges

Two historic lodges, the National Park Inn at Longmire and the Paradise
Inn, offer comfortable rooms for overnight guests. Operated by Mount
Rainier Guest Services, Inc., the simple, but cozy rooms provide a great
base from which to explore the park. At night, the National Park Inn
lounge offers a great spot to recount the day's adventures.

The National Park Inn has 25 rooms and is open year-round. Enjoy the
mountain view from the Inn's veranda or head out on one of the trails
right from the front porch. Adjacent to the Inn is a small general store
located in a log cabin built in 1911. The Inn is open in winter and
offers snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals.

**INSERT PHOTO:** National Park Inn; DFagan_MORA_National Park Inn

"I Slept in Paradise" would make a great bumper sticker. The Paradise
Inn near the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center was built in 1916
and recently renovated. This historic guest lodge has 121 rooms and is
open from mid-May to early October. In summer, early risers can greet
the morning sun and enjoy the quiet of the trails that lead out from the
Paradise area. A gift shop that carries Native American crafts, a dining
room and small café are also located in the inn. For information or
reservations, contact the Mount Rainier Guest Services at (360) 569-2275
or visit their Web site http://rainier.guestservices.com.

## **Where to Eat**

You have several choices for places to eat within the park and more in
the small towns outside of the park. There are two full-service dining
rooms, one in the Paradise Inn and one in the National Park Inn. These
restaurants offer American favorites and signature dishes for breakfast,
lunch and dinner. Dinner reservations are accepted. Within the Paradise
Inn there is the Tatoosh Café that offers drinks and grill items and the
Sunrise Day Lodge has a cafeteria and grill, as well as a gift shop.

Check the Beyond the Borders chapter for suggestions on lodging and
dining in Ashford, Enumclaw and Packwood.

# Beyond the Borders: Off-site places to sleep, eat and go

Mount Rainier National Park and the Cascade Mountains naturally divide
the farmland of Yakima to the east from the surrounding gateway towns of
Ashford, Elbe, Enumclaw, Packwood, and Wilkeson. You will find that the
small communities surrounding the park have a variety of lodging and
restaurants from motels, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, lodges, cabins, and
treehouses to fast-food joints, cafés, restaurants, and resorts. Tacoma,
Portland and Seattle are bigger destinations but are farther from the
park. Here are just a few of the many options for lodging and eating
out; see the Resources Section for more information.

Surrounding Mount Rainier National Park are portions of the Wenatchee,
Gifford Pinchot and Mount-Baker Snoqualmie National Forests. There are
many vehicle campgrounds, as well as hiking, biking, skiing and
snowmobiling trails to explore. Fishing, hunting and photography
opportunities abound. The forest campgrounds or the small towns are good
places to base yourself while exploring the region.

**Ashford**

Settled by homesteaders in the 1880s, Ashford was platted in 1904. A
local sawmill was built in the 1890s to mill local trees, before the
Tacoma Eastern Railroad established a terminus in the town for
passengers visiting the company's National Park Inn in Longmire.

**Where to Stay**

**Alexander's Country Inn and Restaurant,** 37515 WA 706 East, Ashford;
98304 (800) 654-7615; www.alexanderscountryinn.com is located along
highway 706. The inn has 12 rooms and a spa that offers relaxing
massages. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

**Cedar Loft Cabin,** P.O. Box 114, Ashford 98380; (360) 789-9443;
[www.cedarloftcabin.com](http://www.cedarloftcabin.com/), is located 4
miles from the Nisqually entrance in a quiet and secluded area. A
two-story cabin has a full kitchen and outdoor hot tub. Overnight guests
may take the Cedar Creek Treehouse tour and explore this three-storied
treehouse with tremendous views of The Mountain and surrounding area.

**Mounthaven Resort,** 38210 WA 706 East, Ashford 98304; (800) 456-9380;
[www.mounthaven.com](http://www.mounthaven.com/), has 9 cabins equipped
with kitchens and private baths set in a cedar forest, along with 16 RV
sites and communal areas. Located 0.5-miles outside the Nisqually
entrance.

**Nisqually Lodge,** 316098 WA 706 East, Ashford 98304: (360) 569-8804;
[www.escapetothemountains.com](http://www.escapetothemountains.com/), is
in the middle of town a few miles from the Nisqually entrance. There are
24 rooms and a great room to share your day's adventures with other
guests.

**Stone Creek Lodge at Mount Rainier,** 38624 WA 706 East, Ashford
98304; (800) 819-3942;
[www.stonecreeklodge.com](http://www.stonecreeklodge.com/), has 6
renovated cabins and is near the Nisqually entrance.

**Whittaker's Bunkhouse,** 30204 WA 706 East, Ashford 98304; (360)
569-2439; www.whittakersbunkhouse.com. The bunkhouse was originally
built in 1912 and renovated in the 1990s. There are 18 private rooms, a
14-bed hostel, and small café that serves breakfast, espresso and
drinks. Next door is the headquarters for Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.,
one of the park's permitted guide services.

# Where to Eat

**Alexander's Country Inn and Restaurant, (**360) 569-2323, serves
Northwest-influenced breakfast, lunch and dinner meals. The restaurant
is open to their bed-and-breakfast guests, as well as other visitors.
Trout freshly caught from their pond is their signature meal. Dinner
reservations are recommended.

**Copper Creek Inn** at 35707 WA 706 East, Ashford; (877) 325-5881;
[www.coppercreekinn.com](http://www.coppercreekinn.com/), the restaurant
sits right on the highway. Their Northwest-influenced meals include
seafood, steaks, trout, regional wines and microbrews, and blackberry
pie for breakfast! Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they also have
lodging available.

**Hobo Inn,** 51630 WA 706 East, Elbe 98330; (360) 569-2500, is a
train-lover's paradise. Eight converted cabooses provide overnight
accommodations. You don't have to "hop" these trains for a place to
stay.

**Rainier Base Camp Bar & Grill,** 300027 WA 706 East, Ashford; (360)
569-2727; [www.basecampgrill.com](http://www.basecampgrill.com/), serves
pizza, burgers and microbrews. While waiting for your food you can
practice some moves on the outdoor climbing wall. Open in summer.

**Rainier Overland Lodge and Restaurant,** 31811 WA 706 East, Ashford;
(800) 582-8984;
[www.rainieroverland.net](http://www.rainieroverland.net/), has a
family-friendly restaurant that serves hearty meals and their special
Bourbon burger. The country lodge also has 9 rooms, 3 specialty rooms, 3
rustic cabins and a modern guest house for overnight visitors.

**Tall Timber Restaurant,** 121 Mashell Ave., Eatonville 98328; (360)
832-3535; is open breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves hearty meals
with daily specials and homemade pies.

# What to Do

**Glacier View Wilderness** is a 3,080-acre wilderness area in the
Gifford Pinchot National Forest, north of the Nisqually entrance. The
area protects the headwaters of the South Fork of the Puyallup River and
offers great backcountry views of Mount Rainier.

**Pioneer Farm Museum and Ohop Indian Village,** 771 Ohop Valley Road,
Eatonville 98328; (360) 832-6300;
[www.pioneerfarmmuseum.org](http://www.pioneerfarmmuseum.org/), brings
pioneer and Native American history to life. The farm is open from
mid-March to late November, and the Indian Village is open in the
summer. Lots of hands-on activities. Call or visit the Web site for
hours and pricing.

**Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park,** 22410 WA 706 East, Ashford
98304; (360) 569-2280;
[www.danielklennert.com](http://www.danielklennert.com/), is an offbeat
display of metal works created by Dan Klennert.

#  The Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, P.O. Box 250, Mineral 98355; (888) STEAM11; www.mrsr.com, is a vintage, steam-powered train that runs in the summer from Elbe to Mineral Lake, a 14-mile round trip ride. You can also ride the Snowball Express in winter!

**Northwest Trek Wildlife Park,** 11610 Trek Drive East, Eatonville
98328; (360) 832-6117; [www.nwtrek.org](http://www.nwtrek.org/), is a
safari park associated with the Point Defiance Zoo highlighting wildlife
from the Northwest. There are guided tram rides or trails to view the
animals. Open year-round, but call for times and days. Adults \$12,
children 5-12 are \$4.

# Enumclaw

Over 6,000 years ago, native Northwest tribes were living in this area.
European settlement started in the 1850s. Loggers cleared the land that
later became dairy farms.

# Where to Stay

**Kings Valu Inn,** 1334 Roosevelt Avenue East, Enumclaw 98022; (360)
825-1626; [www.kingsvaluinn.com](http://www.kingsvaluinn.com/) has 44
rooms and is comfortable.

**Park Center Hotel,** 1000 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw 98022; (360)
825-4490; [www.parkcenterhotel.com](http://www.parkcenterhotel.com/) has
40 rooms and is centrally located.

**Alta Crystal Resort,** 68317 SR 410 East, Greenwater 98022; (800)
277-6475; [www.altacrystalresort.com](http://www.altacrystalresort.com/)
is a private resort located on 22 acres. Hike right from your room into
old-growth forests.

**Places to Eat**

**Black Diamond Bakery Restaurant**, 32805 Railroad Ave., Black Diamond
98010; (360) 886-2235 serves filling breakfasts and sweet cinnamon
rolls.

**Café Panini**, 1537 Cole Street, Enumclaw 98022; (360) 802-5132, is
open for lunch and dinner, and save room for one of the Pie Goddess'
Pies!

**Cynthia's Pony Express**, 1239 Griffin Avenue, Enumclaw 98022; (360)
825-2055, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

**The Mint Tavern,** 1608 Cole Street, Enumclaw 98022; (360) 825-8361,
serves traditional pub fare and cold brews.

# What to do

**Crystal Mountain,** 33914 Crystal Mountain Boulevard (360) 663-3050,
[www.skicrystal.com](http://www.skicrystal.com/), is 30 miles east of
Enumclaw and next to the northeast corner of the park. With a vertical
drop of over 3,100 feet, "Crystal" is Washington's largest ski area.
Summer chairlift rides provide excellent views of Mount Rainier.

**Federation Forest State Park** is a 619-acre, day-use park located
along WA 410, 18 miles east of Enumclaw. Twelve miles of trail wander
through old-growth forests. Open 8:00 a.m. until dusk, the interpretive
center is open spring and summer from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Call
(360) 663-2207 for current hours.

**Scenic drive** from Enumclaw to Naches follows WA 410 from Enumclaw,
down the northeast side of the park and over Chinook Pass Scenic Byway
to Naches. The 87-mile drive goes through moist old-growth cedar and
Douglas fir forests through the drier ponderosa pine and sagebrush flats
on the east side, finally arriving in the farmland and vineyards of
Yakima.

**INSERT PHOTO:** TBD

**Packwood**

William Packwood and James Longmire passed through the area in 1861 when
they were scouting a route between Olympia and Yakima. Packwood filed a
coal claim and later homesteaded the area. Once a thriving logging
community, Packwood provides great access to the east side of the park
and the White Pass area. Restaurants are mostly family style or taverns.

# Places to Stay

**Cowlitz River Lodge,** 13069 US 12, Packwood 98361; (888) 305-2185;
[www.mounthaven.com](http://www.mounthaven.com/), has 32 rooms and a
great room where you can share your day's adventures with other
visitors.

**Crest Trail Lodge**, 12729 US 12, Packwood 98361; (800) 477-5339;
[www.cresttraillodge.com](http://www.cresttraillodge.com/), this
comfortable lodge has 27 rooms and is located 1 mile west of Packwood.

**Inn of Packwood,** 13032 US 12, Packwood 98361; (360) 494-5500;
www.innofpackwood.com, has 34 rooms, some with kitchens, and a heated
indoor pool.

**Things to do**

**Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument,** 42218 N.E. Yale Bridge
Road, Amboy, WA 98601; (360) 449-7800, TTY (360) 891-5003;
[www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/mshnum](http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/mshnum). Mount St.
Helens last erupted on May 18, 1980. The 110,000-acre monument was
created in 1982 for research, recreation and education. There are
numerous hiking trails and observation points along paved roads that
offer amazing views of this dynamic landscape in the monument. There are
10 Forest Service and 1 Washington State Park campgrounds located
outside of the monument.

**INSERT MAP --** Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (?)

**William O. Douglas Wilderness,** is a 167,195-acre wilderness area
that includes a portion of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. The
area honors Yakima-born Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, who
spent years exploring this area.

**White Pass Ski Resort,** Box 3030, White Pass, WA 98937; (509)
672-3101; [www.skiwhitepass.com](http://www.skiwhitepass.com/), is 20
miles east of Packwood and offers diverse terrain with 32 trails and
1,500 feet of elevation change.

## **Resources**

**Mount Rainier National Park**

**Headquarters:** 55210 238^th^ Ave. East, Ashford, WA 98304

**Visitor information:** (360) 569-2211; TDD 360-569-2177

**E-mail address**: MORAInfo@nps.gov

**Park Web site:** [www.nps.gov/mora](http://www.nps.gov/mora)

**Carbon River Ranger Station:** (360) 829-9639

**White River Wilderness Information Center:** (360) 569-2211 ext. 6030

**Longmire Wilderness Information Center**: (360) 569-HIKE;
www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/wilderness-camping-and-hiking.htm

**Longmire Museum:** (360) 569-2211 ext. 3314

**Ohanapecosh Visitor Center:** (360) 569-6046

**Paradise Visitor Center:** (360) 569-6036 (check)

**Sunrise Visitor Center:** (360) 663-2425

**Volunteer Coordinator:** (360) 569-2211 ext. 3385

**Campground Reservations**

**National Recreation Reservation Service**: Cougar Rock & Ohanapecosh
campground reservations: (877) 444-6777; TDD (877) 833-6777;
www.recreation.gov

**Discover Your Northwest:** 164 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104;
(360) 596-2211 ext. 3320;
[www.discovernw.org](http://www.discovernw.org/)

**Mount Rainier Guest Services, Inc.**

**Lodging and Reservations**: National Park Inn and Paradise Inn

55106 Kernaham Road, East, Ashford, WA 98304 (360) 569-2275;
www.guestservices.com/rainier

**Ski Touring Center:** (360) 569-2411

**Climbing Guides**

**Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.:** P.O. Box Q, Ashford, WA 98304; (888)
892-5462**;** [www.rmiguides.com](http://www.rmiguides.com/)

**International Mountain Guides**: P.O. box 246, Ashford, WA 98304;
(360) 569-2609; [www.mountainguides.com](http://www.mountainguides.com/)

**Alpine Ascents International:** 121 Mercer St., Seattle, WA 98109;
(206) 378-1927; [www.alpineascents.com](http://www.alpineascents.com/)

**Mount Rainier Recreational Forecast:**
[www.atmos.washington.edu/data/rainier_report.html](http://www.atmos.washington.edu/data/rainier_report.html)

**Paradise SNOTEL Data Report:**

www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/nwcc/sntl-datarpt.jsp

**East Lewis County Chamber of Commerce:** 118 State Street, Mossyrock,
WA 98356; (360) 983-3778; www.eastlewiscountychamber.com

**Eatonville Visitor Center:** 20 Center Street East, Eatonville, WA
98304; (360) 832-4000;

**Mount Rainier Visitor Association:** 30416 WA 706, Box 214, Ashford,
WA 98304; (360) 569-0910;
[www.mt-rainier.com](http://www.mt-rainier.com/)

## **National Forests**

**Gifford Pinchot NF,** Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, 10024 US Hwy 12,
Randle, WA 98377; (360) 497-1100; www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation

**Mount Baker-Snoqualmie NF,** Outdoor Recreation Information Center,
222 Yale Ave. North, Seattle, WA 98109; (206) 470-4060;
[www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/recreation](http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs/recreation)

**Wenatchee NF,** Naches Ranger District, 10237 Hwy 12, Naches, WA
98937; (509) 653-1400; www.fs.fed.us/r6/wenatchee

**Index**

Ashford,

attractions,

dining,

lodging,

auto tour,

backpacking,

bicycling,

black bears,

campgrounds,

Cougar Rock,

Ipsut Lake,

Ohanapecosh,

Mowich Lake,

White River,

Carbon River Ranger Station,

climbing,

Discover Your Northwest,

emergency/medical services,

entrances,

Carbon River,

Mowich Lake,

Nisqually,

Stevens Canyon,

White River,

Enumclaw,

attractions,

dining,

lodging,

fees,

fishing,

geologic history,

glaciers,

human history,

Junior ranger program,

Life zones,

alpine,

lowland forest,

Pacific silver fir,

subalpine,

Longmire Historical District,

Longmire Museum,

Longmire Wilderness Information Center,

lost and found,

Mount Rainier,

Mount St. Helens,

mountain goats,

mountain lions,

Narada Falls,

National Park Inn at Longmire,

Northern flying squirrels,

Northern spotted owls,

Packwood,

attractions,

dining,

lodging,

Paradise Inn,

pika,

Ricksecker Point,

rules and regulations,

safety,

shuttle,

stargazing,

Sunrise Day Lodge,

Trails,

Box Canyon,

Burroughs Mountain,

Carbon Glacier,

Carbon River Rain Forest,

Emmons Vista,

Grove of the Patriarchs,

Nisqually Vista,

Rampart Ridge,

Silver Falls,

Sourdough Ridge,

Tipsoo Lake,

Trail of the Shadows,

Twin Firs,

Wonderland,

Visitor centers

Henry M. Jackson,

Ohanapecosh,

Sunrise,

weather,

White River Wilderness Information Center,

wildflowers,

wildlife,

winter sports,