Top 5 Mt Rainier Day Trips: See the Best of the Park

Planning a trip to see Washington’s majestic Mt Rainier? That is, this huge volcano that’s looming in the skyline of Seattle? That’s exciting! It’s almost too easy to get swept up in pictures of the mountain, you know, like, those lovely meadows packed with wildflowers, but Mt Rainier National Park really does offer more than just pretty pictures. Getting around can seem a bit tough at times, because there’s that whole driving thing and parking, still, once you get a sense of where to go, planning perfect day trip to Mount Rainier turns out to be a piece of cake. Below are five must-see spots inside the park, along with, like, a few handy tips to make your adventure the best it could be.

Paradise: Meadows and Mountain Views

Paradise is, very, well-named, honestly! This place typically wows guests with spectacular sights of Mount Rainier, so too there are meadows which come alive during the summertime with vibrant wildflowers. Seems that this is definitely a crown jewel of the park, and, really, is totally accessible for every single kind of traveler, too. Very nice! From easy strolls along paved paths to, in a way, pretty difficult trails which wind with each other to higher vantage spots, that too means there’s something for totally every level of hiker. In fact, those of you who simply fancy an outdoor picnic surrounded by jaw-dropping views, Paradise seemingly won’t disappoint.

Why Visit? The location is, that, incredible views, wildflower meadows, as well as diverse hiking trails, it’s almost your ideal day-trip package. Don’t miss that super iconic Myrtle Falls! Its scenic path typically leads to this dramatic waterfall set against, obviously, Mount Rainier’s majestic backdrop, so that might be like the photo op of a lifetime. Also, Paradise Guest Services actually includes dining places and gift shops. If you visit that really interesting visitor center, its interesting exhibitions really inform you more on Mt. Rainier geology, then history and ecology.

Insider Tip: It’s almost obvious, but arriving early at Paradise seriously saves the parking woes, especially during high season that can see it get more crowded. Very true! Moreover, because you’re going into a higher altitude area, keep it in mind, also, pack layers of clothing for the conditions that often change. Check weather upfront too. Very wise to do. So many factors here to keep track of.

Read our full review: Paradise Mt Rainier Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check here)

Sunrise: High-Altitude Beauty

As Mt. Rainier’s highest point of accessibility using a car, Sunrise arguably lives to it’s given name! Just see panoramic views that absolutely spread over, like, a rugged terrain! A favorite with those seeking an alpine backdrop, Sunrise also allows several hiking options which suit almost all abilities. Trails meander though vibrant meadows as well as climb upwards toward, sort of, some awe-inspiring points. Along the way, maybe keep an eye out on various park occupants, some wildlife, maybe a curious marmot here or there!

Why Visit? It provides those super stellar views, but the chance of wildlife spotting and the feeling of remaining high up amongst alpine settings should do it too! You’ll want to consider the really gorgeous Sourdough Ridge Trail, too. Walk just partway through this super gently sloping walk towards some really stunning outlooks. Even the Sunrise Visitor Center brings in, really, great mountain education!

Insider Tip: Sunrise too brings on these super great sunsets, therefore prepare yourself. Actually, the setting is kind of magical. Be certain, also, to visit early during those months, and because, as usual, the elevation could bring its unique weather habits to visit too. Layers save.

Read our full review: Sunrise Mt Rainier Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check here)

Grove of the Patriarchs: Old-Growth Forest

Take a simple step from Mt Rainier’s alpine splendor and, basically, you enter one amazing grove. At the location stands the Grove of Patriarchs. Its very old-growth woodland makes an extremely immersive journey in that spot. As huge, centuries-old trees go upward above its soft-lit floor, it definitely captures imagination. With crossing through Ohanapecosh River along an amazingly suspended footbridge as well, the trek contributes anticipation when you’re getting there.

Why Visit? To begin with, this old-growth woodland brings about the calm from what you often sense is like, Mt. Rainier’s vastness. Hiking seems very flat, while, at the location stands amazing trees. These towering trees often allow park-goers an uncommon sense. In order to bring the story alive even better, keep in mind stopping by the nearby Ohanapecosh Visitor Center. They’re generally more than very eager to tell about, for example, rainforest structure and ecology in Pacific Northwest!

Insider Tip: The location makes just one good one! Grove of the Patriarchs usually ends being available to guests usually just after water declines through seasonal floods. Prior to, seemingly, going, be very sure on viewing, and make arrangements. Then again, think too how it might very busy. Coming in the daytime generally assures greater calmness while hiking.

Read our full review: Grove of the Patriarchs Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check here)

Narada Falls: Waterfall Wonder

At that place that really has Narada Falls. This breathtaking, cascading site is fairly simple on accessibility. With its falls located simply beyond the roadside location for cars, this brings about such simple pleasures for a variety of travelers! With going nearby by walking paths along to points bringing far better glimpses along from lower points, a good variety of angles and vistas can, possibly, enrich its journey here. It might definitely overwhelm its visitors considering such powerful beauty as witnessed here.

Why Visit? Without taking really difficult efforts by walking, visitors seemingly come nearly on-top that kind of breathtaking fall. Moreover, photography in such spots here brings amazing opportunities from perspectives of varying angle. When visiting through days usually having, seemingly, pleasant sunny temperature outside, this brings an extra experience, making rainbows around usually spraying misty surfaces.

Insider Tip: Bring that appropriate clothes by your visit around spraying vicinity around the waterfall site! Rocks might possibly remain wet, bringing alertness through walking paths! Take some comfort in taking it fairly simple to do; in general with Narada falls, but don’t hurry and remain there throughout its wonder.

Read our full review: Narada Falls Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check here)

Tipsoo Lake: Reflective Beauty

As Tipsoo Lake goes, this often stands about that often super amazing beauty which shows mountain scenery as reflective around tranquil pools around bodies for nearby locations of Reflection Lake nearby in turn nearby. With vibrant grasses surrounding waters as these, and nearby colorful flowers on occasion through the season, here is just, apparently, one good view. Through short walking, such often might potentially suit most for viewers who appreciate those sceneries and serene scenes while taking hikes which bring extra strain. Come here! You generally enjoy its beauty with Mount Rainier on far ends.

Why Visit? The region provides just amazing visual elements where one does experience visual mountain experiences right, through nearby flower scenery. Moreover, visiting throughout early mornings usually provides calmer settings! A chance is around for having reflections undisturbed on their locations.

Insider Tip: When coming onto Tipsoo around season periods which provide flower appearance, it becomes highly urged visitors come through these weeks and times so they take full picture potential with Mt. Rainier appearing during background conditions too.

Read our full review: Tipsoo Lake Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check here)