One day in a national park is never enough. Yet a short trip to Mount Rainier National Park, even if it’s just one day, offers a great opportunity to see Washington beyond the bustling Seattle.
Last updated: August 13, 2025
Visit Mount Rainier National Park
Set southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is one of the best places to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The truth is the park was one of the first places that drew us to the Emerald City in the first place and we couldn’t wait to get out to nature. Needless to say, visiting Mount Rainier National Park on our last day in Washington was an adventure we were so eagerly looking for.
Welcome to Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the must-see natural attractions near Seattle. The 235,000-acre park is located a little bit over two hours away from the city. The main feature of the park is 14,410-foot Mount Rainier.
In fact, the entire park surrounds this glacier-capped active volcano. Towering over alpine meadows and favorite campgrounds, the iconic mountain boasts some of the best hikes and the most outstanding views in the state.
A Quick Guide to Visiting Mount Rainier National Park
Visiting Mount Rainier National Park is best by car. When forest on both sides of the road gets denser and cellular signal weakens, you’re heading in the right direction.
You can drive as fast or as slow as you please. Yet I’d recommend taking time and enjoying the sweeping mountains of Washington State along some hiking trails. Moreover, make sure to stop at the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest for stunning views of Skookum Falls. The cascading waterfall with the White River at its base is located about one-hour drive from Seattle.
One Day in Mount Rainier National Park: Scenic Drive
If time is not on your side, you can skip the paid section of Mount Rainier National Park and spend a few hours driving along the main road that offers the stunning views of the mountains and numerous waterfalls.
Some of these falls are nestled so close to the road that you can test the ice-cold water with your hands. Chasing the waterfalls can take up to a day.
Alternatively, you can go for a scenic drive (or a hike) within the paid section of the park. Keep in mind, though, Sunrise near the White River Campground is the highest point in the park reachable by car. From here you get a good view of Mount Rainier and the nearby mountains without committing to hiking.
Day Hiking and Biking
If you plan to spend the whole day inside the park, hiking and biking should be on top of your itinerary. These are the most popular things to do in Mount Rainier National Park in spring, summer, or early fall.
The region is packed with many scenic hikes that run through the wilderness near bountiful creeks. Most of the trails start at camping grounds. The most popular hiking paths include the Sunrise Rim Trail, Skyline Trail, and Burroughs Mountain Trail. The Summerland Trail near Fryingpan Creek boasts some of the best views of the river and the mountains right from the trailhead.
Entrance Fees: To access the Mount Rainier National Park hiking trails, you need to get a day pass. It costs $30 for a private vehicle. The pass is valid for seven days and can be purchased online or at an entrance station. Mount Rainier annual pass is $55.
Climbing
Apart from hiking and biking, mountain climbing is highly recommended in Mount Rainier National Park. Every year thousands of people successfully climb on average eight miles to the top of this active volcano. Climbing permits are often required. Check out the National Park Service’s website for more information.
Camping
If you plan to spend a few days in Mount Rainier National Park, turn it into a camping trip. Spending at least a night within the park immersed in nature goes far beyond any daytime experiences. Mount Raining National Park offers four campgrounds: Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, White River, and Mowich Lake.
The sites get packed quickly, especially during the summer season. So be sure to reserve your spot in advance. Normally, the campgrounds are open from late May until late September. The dates may vary.
One Day in Mount Rainier National Park: Map
Read Next
- WATERFALL TRIP: How to Visit Snoqualmie Falls, Washington
- SPOKANE TRAVEL: 9 Gorgeous Road Trips and Weekend Getaways from Spokane
