Trail Tips, etc. at Mount Raineir

When's The Best Time to Visit the Mountain?

As veterans of zillions of trips to the park, people sometimes ask us what "the best" time is to visit Mount Rainier. That depends. If you prefer cooler temperatures, light crowds and lots of snow - esp. at Paradise and the higher elevations, shoot for early or mid June before the summer crowds arrive in late June. However, quite a few trails will be closed or inaccessible due to snow. Sunrise will more than likely be inaccessible in June unless it's been a very, very mild winter. You may also have to contend with road closures early in the season.

If you prefer warmer weather, clear skies, open roads and trails and the tail-end of Rainer's world-famous wildflower season, head to the park in mid to late September. Trade-off is more people.

Peak Season

Mount Rainier hosts over two million visitors a year. the majority of these folks arrive during peak season (July - August), and the park is crammed to the gills during this period. That's why you'll never, ever see us at Rainier during that time frame. Also, campground prices go up form $12/night to $15/night during peak season. Your chances of having a nice, quiet trail to yourself during July or August? Slim to nil.

Be prepared

For sudden, quick changes in weather. It can be clear, sunny and 78 degrees one day and pouring rain the next, with temps in the 50s. Rainier's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Always carry the Ten Essentials. Dress in layers, bring plenty of water, sunscreen and rain gear.

Wear Sturdy Shoes

Avoid pegging yourself as a clueless Rainier rookie by sporting sandals or flip-flops. Bring sturdy shoes. We recommend Red Wing boots. They're not cheap, but in our opinion you can't buy better boots than Red Wings. Besides, fording rivers or streams, skittering over muddy bogs or navigating fallen logs, brambles or boulders or tanglefoot is no time to scrimp. A pair of quality, waterproof boots is a worthwhile investment. Your feet and joints will thank you!

Our Trail Tips & FYIs for Mount Rainier National Park:

Tip #1: Unless you have a penchant for crowds and rubbing elbows with zillions of other people at every turn, never, EVER plan on visiting Mount Rainier National Park during peak season (July thru Labor Day) or on weekends if you can avoid it (we learned this the hard way). Off-season and week days are much better if you prefer solitude and serenity. This is when half the population of the Western hemisphere shows up. At popular park attractions like Paradise, Reflection Lakes or Grove of the Patriarchs, you can spend half the day trolling for a parking spot. Plan you trip during the less crowded off-season if possible.

Tip #2: Obey all posted speed limit signs. That "15 mph" sign just before the next hairpin turn heading into Longmire from Paradise? They MEAN it. "Fifteen" mean 15, not 30 or 40 - unless you have a death wish.

Tip #2: None of the campgrounds have showers or hot running water. Flush toilets and sinks are available at Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh. If you want hot water for washing or doing dishes, be prepared to haul it and heat it yourself. Coin-op showers are available in Longmire. Gift shops are available in Longmire and Paradise. A smaller selection of times can be found at the Ohanapecosh Visitor's Center.

Tip #4: DO NOT FEED the animals! That chipmunk, Stellar's jay or red squirrel may look cute munching part of your lunch. These critters aren't nearly so charming when they try to break into your tent at two o'clock in the morning looking for a hand-out. (Human food can also make the animals sick and dependent on people for a free lunch. If that doesn't deter you, consider that feeding animals inside the park is illegal and may result in a hefty fine.)

Tip #5: To prevent unwelcome animal visitors, stow all food and scented items (toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, etc.) in your vehicle/trunk, NOT IN YOUR TENT. (See #5, above.)

Tip #6: Gasoline is not available inside the park. Fill up at Packwood or Ashford.

Tip #7: Mount Rainier National Park is rustic. Much of the park is a designated wilderness area. You won't find any Denny's or golden arches here. Bring your own food. A limited supply of sundry and groceries can be found at the general store in Longmire, but do your main shopping before your arrival.

Tip #8: If you're looking for a nice place to eat inside the park or a cozy setting to mark a special occasion, consider the restaurant at National Park Inn in the historic Longmire District. The menu is limited, but the ambience is homey, the food good and the scenery one-of-a-kind. Choose a window seat and enjoy a look at the Mountain as you eat. Hint: Try the Oven-Baked Salmon and the Mountain Blackberry Crisp. Mouth-watering! (We've celebrated several special occasions and anniversaries - including our silver anniversary - at this quaint little eatery. We're always ready to come back for more.)

Tip #9: Trail of the Shadows. If you're looking for an easy loop trail to wind down your trip or cool down from some more strenuous hikes, check out the Trail of the Shadows at Longmire. This easy, gentle loop trail of .7 miles starts right across the street from National Park Inn. Nicely shaded in warm weather, and you can check out a replica of the Longmire log cabin. On quiet days, deer can often be sighted grazing in the adjacent meadow.

Tip #10: Rampart Ridge. At 4.8 miles RT, this steep, strenuous trail isn't for the faint-hearted. But the scenery's worth the effort. This hike offers a glorious panoramic view of the Longmire area at a lookout just over a mile up the trail. Caution: This is a relative short but steep hike, particularly if you hike in the clockwise direction. Views from the top are tremendous - you can see forever on a clear day. But you may want to pass on this one if you have creaky knees, asthma, or haven't been on the trail since the last Ice Age.