Mount Rainier National Park Introduction

Mount Rainier National Park encompasses 36 square miles, including Mt. Rainier itself, which is the tallest volcano and fifth highest peak in the contiguous United States. The official measurement of Mount Rainier is 14,410 ft. above sea level. Geologists consider the volcano to be 'episodically active', meaning that it will erupt again some time in the future even though it is quiet presently. The last estimated eruption was between 1820 and 1894.

Congress established Mount Rainier National Park in1899, making it America's fifth oldest national park. Since that tine, more than 260 miles of trails and 147 miles of roads have been developed. Mount Rainier’s elevation differences, approximately 13,000 feet, creates a variety of habitats that provide for a wide assortment of invertebrates, mammals, birds, fish, amphibians, and reptiles.

Outdoor Activities
Camping overnight in the wilderness at Mount Rainier is popular and requires a permit. In the summer, permits can be obtained at any ranger station in the park during the hours of operation. However, permits are not required for day hiking.

Climate
Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean, elevation, and latitude. The climate is generally cool and rainy, with summer highs in the 60s and 70s. While July and August are the sunniest months of the year, rain is possible any day, and very likely in spring, fall, and winter.

Visitors should be aware that mountain weather is very changeable. Wet, cold weather can occur anytime of the year. Although late-July and August are generally the driest and warmest time of the year, summer can also be wet and cool. Snow will remain at the 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation well into mid-July.

Interesting Fact
Mount Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range at 14,410 feet. From various locations around the park you can see four other Cascade volcanoes: Mount St. Helens, Mt Adams, Mt Baker, and Glacier Peak. On a clear day, you can see the tip of Mt Hood, in northern Oregon, from Paradise Meadows.

Other Details
Mount Rainier National Park is open all year, with the highest visitation during July and August. Spring and Fall allow visitors to enjoy a more leisurely vacation in the park, while some areas of the park are closed in mid-October or early-November for the Winter season

Mount Rainier National Park
55210 238th Ave. East
Ashford, WA 98304
Phone (360) 569-2211

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	Mt. Rainier Website on NPS.gov