SEA (Sea-Tac International Airport)
The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), or "Sea-Tac," serves Seattle, Tacoma, and the rest of Western Washington. The airport is the primary hub for Alaska Airlines…
🚀 Microadventure Tool 👨🚀
Launch Now🌞 Travel Newsletter Subscription 👽
Sign UpWhen visiting the Seattle area, few experiences rival a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park.
At 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier is one of the top 10 highest peaks in the continental United States and an iconic sight in Washington. Fortunately, you don't have to scale the peak to appreciate the alpine meadows, waterfalls, and old-growth forests. There are plenty of approachable hiking trails and viewpoints for all ages to enjoy.
Mount Rainier National Park is located about two hours south of downtown Seattle, and just over an hour and a half from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).
The national park is stunning year-round, but you'll have very different experiences depending on when you go. Winter offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowy sightseeing; spring brings a mix of snow and early blooms; and wildflowers peak in mid- to late summer. If you wait until mid-October, fall foliage will be on full display.
If you're visiting from out of town, one of the best ways to make the most of your adventure is to stay in Seattle Southside near the airport. Cities like SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines offer convenient accommodations and easy access to major highways, and you'll be closer to the national park than you would be in downtown Seattle. There are also tour groups that pick up visitors at local hotels for guided tours of Rainier.
Mount Rainier National Park contains several distinct sections, each popular for different reasons.
NOTE: If you're using GPS to navigate, know that much of the park does not have cell coverage.
Longmire is often the first major destination visitors encounter after entering Mount Rainier National Park. Located on the southwest side of the park, just over six miles east of the Nisqually Entrance, this designated national historic district is home to a visitor center, a museum, and dozens of rustic buildings that will appeal to history nerds as much as nature lovers. Stop by the Longmire Museum (open year-round) to learn about the mountain's volcanic origins and the area's early tourism development. At the Longmire Wilderness Information Center (usually open May-October), you can obtain hiking and camping information and wilderness permits.
There are several very easy, kid-friendly trails to explore near Longmire. Remember to stay on the trails and avoid picking flowers.
Distance: 0.7 miles
This family-friendly trail winds through forested wetlands and natural mineral springs. Interpretive signs share the story of the area's early settlers and the significance of the springs.
Distance: 2 miles
Beginning just below Cougar Rock Campground, this easy forest walk along the Paradise River passes two waterfalls.
Distance: 9 miles
This forested trail follows the Nisqually River via the Wonderland Trail from Longmire. You'll see multiple falls along the way!
Paradise, the park's most famous destination, is named for its spectacular wildflower displays and breathtaking views. This stunning site attracts visitors from around the world.
First Stop: The Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, where rangers provide current trail conditions and weather updates. You can also view a map of all the trails and check out exhibits about the mountain's glaciers, wildlife, and alpine ecosystems. There's even a short film shown in the theater that you can watch to learn about the landscape. Take your time enjoying the gift shop, snack bar, restrooms, and free public Wi-Fi before setting out on your adventure.
Read on for recommendations of the best hikes at Paradise.
Distance: 1 mile round trip
One of the park's most photographed locations, Myrtle Falls is a beautiful waterfall framed by Mount Rainier in the background. The paved trail makes it accessible for many visitors and is perfect for families.
Distance: 1.2 miles loop
This relatively easy trail provides panoramic views of the Nisqually Glacier and surrounding valleys. Interpretive signs explain the glacier's history and changing landscape.
Distance: Up to 5.5 miles loop
Often considered the signature hike in Mount Rainier National Park, the Skyline Trail delivers incredible scenery with every step. Depending on the season and how far you choose to hike, you may encounter waterfalls, glaciers, wildflowers, and views of Mt. Rainier
In addition to the easy hikes mentioned above, there are many kid-friendly activities to check out near Mount Rainier:
After a day spent chasing waterfalls and mountain trails, you'll likely want to collapse into a comfy hotel bed. There are plenty of accommodations near the park, should you want to make it an overnight. Whether you return on the same day or the next morning, you can head back to Seattle Southside and choose from dozens of hotels. Grab dinner at one of many local restaurants serving every kind of cuisine you can imagine, from New American to East African to Mexican and more. Use our directory to filter by cuisine type.
Some ways to make your day extra special:
The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), or "Sea-Tac," serves Seattle, Tacoma, and the rest of Western Washington. The airport is the primary hub for Alaska Airlines…
Mount Rainier National Park
The scenic drive to Mount Rainier is part of the experience.
Yes. Mount Rainier is considered an active volcano and will erupt again sometime in the future. The last major eruption was over 500 years ago. There was a noteworthy eruption in 1894 where witnesses described seeing small explosions at the volcano's summit.
At a height of 14,410 feet, Mount Rainier is the highest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States and is the highest mountain in Washington State. Mount Rainier is capped by glaciers and has snow year-round at it's highest elevations.
Captain George Vancouver of the British Royal Navy observed the mountain while surveying the Pacific coast in 1792 and decided to name the mountain after his friend, Rear Admiral Peter Rainier.
The best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park is July through August, when wildflowers are blooming in the subalpine meadows. This time of year tends to offer warmer, dryer weather that is optimal for hiking conditions.
While 3 days would be better, the top sites for visitors to see in one day include: Paradise, Skyline Trail, and Myrtle Falls.
If at all possible, take 3 days to see as much of the park as you can. Check the weather report and bring proper clothing, get an early start, pack a lunch and take a water bottle, print a map or have a map saved to your phone, take your time and enjoy the experience.
Some of the best trails in Seattle are in Seattle Southside!
Explore the great outdoors in Seattle Southside!
Snoqualmie Falls is an iconic Pacific Northwest destination, and one of the most popular day trips from Seattle.