National Park

Tahoma News | Summer-Fall Visitor Guide 2021

Jasmine Horn photo

Expect limited services and facilities due to COVID-19 impacts. Check locally or at nps.gov/mora for facility status.

Welcome to Mount Rainier National Park! No Pets on Trails The mission of the is to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural Leashed pets are permitted resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration only in parking lots and along of this and future generations. We proudly hold parks in trust for the American people and, even roads open to public vehicles more proudly, welcome visitors from all communities as pandemic restrictions continue to ease. No Drone Zone! It is also our mission to keep everyone at Mount Rainier healthy, including our staf and all who Drones are not allowed visit. To that end, Mount Rainier continues to modify visitor services to help prevent the spread anywhere in Mount Rainier of infectious diseases. Some facilities and programs will be closed or cancelled. Check locally National Park. This includes and on the park website for current information and continue to follow CDC guidelines. As launching, landing, and circumstances continue to change and we modify our operations as necessary, we thank you for operating drones. your patience and cooperation. See the back page for COVID safety information.

You can help I Pledge to: safeguard “Protect Mount Rainier’s meadows and lakes by staying on trails while hiking in meadows and around lakes. One step onto this place, a meadow damages an average of 17 plants that will take years and these to recover! resources and Never take my pets on trails or meadows. Pets are not permitted on trails. They are only permitted in campgrounds, intrinsic values parking lots, and on roads open for travel and must be on by taking the leashes no longer than six feet. Mount Rainier Respect the land and all that is connected to it as the original stewards of this land did and their descendants continue to do Pledge. today.

Welcome all people I encounter during my visit regardless of Mount Rainier National Park was created to protect their identities or abilities. and preserve unimpaired iconic Mount Rainier, along with its natural and cultural resources, values, and Leave No Trace of my visit. Planning ahead and being prepared, dynamic processes. disposing of waste properly, and leaving what you fnd, are just a few ways you can Leave No Trace. The park provides opportunities for people to Keep Wildlife Wild by not feeding or approaching animals. experience, understand, and care for the park Feeding wildlife can be as direct as offering a bit of your lunch, environment, and provides for wilderness experiences or as indirect as leaving your food or garbage for animals to while sustaining wilderness values. fnd. Be a Mount Rainier Champion by learning more Stay safe during my visit by keeping safety in mind. Watch for about park resources and supporting park efforts by changes in weather and conditions. Know your limits when sharing #RainierPledge https://www.nps.gov/mora/ exploring Mount Rainier’s trails and backcountry.” planyourvisit/mount-rainier-pledge.htm. near Chenuis Falls JD Hascup photo

Explore Mount Rainier National Park Mount Rainier is the At 14,410 feet high, Mount Rainier is the tallest Parking can be difcult to fnd on sunny traditional land of the peak in the and an icon of summer weekends at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove Coast Salish tribes and the . While the 's of the Patriarchs, and at trailheads between well-known profile is visible for many miles in Longmire and Paradise. To avoid congestion, the Confederated Tribes every direction, its alpine, glacier-clad slopes visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early, and and Bands of the Yakama occupy only a third of Mount Rainier National carpool. Nation. Indigenous Park. There are as many different sides of the park as there are views of Mount Rainier. Take traditional practices are Park roads are winding, road the time to explore the other two-thirds of the shoulders are narrow, and the intrinsic with the land and park and discover what lies within the shadow speed limit is 35 mph in most continue to this day. of this great mountain that local American areas. Watch for pedestrians, Indians call "Tahoma." sightseers, bicyclists, and wildlife. Please be courteous and use Whether you are looking for wilderness pullouts to allow faster drivers to solitude or historical architecture, spectacular pass you safely. drives or challenging hikes, Mount Rainier National Park has something for you. This Visitor Guide includes information that will If you are in the park on a busy day, you may help you plan your activities and have a safe want to explore less–visited areas to escape and enjoyable visit. the biggest crowds. In taking the extra time to seek out these special places, you can immerse Hey Junior Rangers! There are five major visitor areas in the park: yourself in an old-growth forest, reflect next to The new Mount • Longmire (southwest) a cascading waterfall, hike in virtual solitude, Rainier Junior Ranger • Paradise (south side) or just relax, take in the view, and reconnect Book is available. Pick • Ohanapecosh (southeast) with nature. No matter where you go in the one up at a visitor • Sunrise/White River (northeast) park you will find spectacular scenery and a center and complete • Carbon River/ multitude of recreational opportunities! the activities, to earn a (northwest) Junior Ranger badge. Get the Most Out of Your Visit Visiting for a few hours or a day? Here's some tips to help you get the most out of your visit: Half Day in the Park? One Day in the Park? • Drive to Sunrise for a picnic, a short hike to • Hike into the for excellent views Emmons Vista, and outstanding mountain of the mountain. Hardy hikers can try the Eagle and glacier views. Download the National Peak or Pinnacle Peak trails. Park Service App (NPS APP) and listen to • Visit Refection Lakes for amazing views of the How Far Is It? One Way the Sunrise Road Geology Audio tour along mountain that may be refecting in the lake's Driving Times the way. Stop at White River for the best data surface. Then hike up to Bench and lakes & Distances for a moderate hike. service to download. Road Distance Time • Visit and Tipsoo Lake for a hike • Take a geology tour along the south side of around the lake through subalpine meadows. the park. Stops include (west to east) Westside Longmire to Paradise 12 miles 25 min • Hike two miles round-trip along the Road, Kautz Creek, Glacier Bridge, Ricksecker **Stevens Canyon Rd: 23 miles 45 min from the Ohanapecosh Point, Inspiration Point, Box Canyon, and Paradise to Ohanapecosh Campground to view . viewpoints along the way. Ohanapecosh to White • Explore Longmire's historic district and hike • Spend the day hiking the trails through 18 miles 30 min the Trail of the Shadows. subalpine meadows at Sunrise or Paradise. River Entrance • Hike Nisqually Vista or Myrtle Falls trails at • Hike a section of the 93-mile Wonderland White River Entrance to 13 miles 45 min Paradise and enjoy a picnic with a view! Trail that encircles the mountain. Many people Sunrise hike this trail in sections. Try hiking from Lake • Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs loop trail to White River Entrance Louise to Box Canyon in Stevens Canyon or explore an ancient old-growth forest. to Carbon River via 61 miles 2 hrs • Take a drive through the park stopping at Sunrise to White River, Longmire to Narada Enumclaw overlooks of mountain views, waterfalls, and Falls or Refection Lakes. All require a vehicle Longmire to Carbon River geologic features. at each trailhead. 80 miles 2.5 hrs • Some great hikes for young families are Trail • Take a drive up the dirt road to Mowich Lake via Eatonville/Orting of the Shadows at Longmire, Nisqually Vista to see the park's deepest lake surrounded by Longmire to Mowich Lake 89 miles 3 hrs at Paradise, Box Canyon loop trail in Stevens wildfowers in summer, followed by a hike to via Eatonville/Orting Spray Park for mountain views. Canyon, Hot Springs trail at Ohanapecosh, **Expect delays when traveling Stevens Sunrise Rim at Sunrise, and Grove of the • Hike to a historic fre lookout for great views of Canyon Road. Patriarchs near Stevens Canyon Entrance. the mountain and surrounding area.

2 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 What You Need to Know Mount Rainier National Park was established in No Drone Zone! Permits 1899 to preserve the natural and cultural resources Launching, landing, or operating Permits are required for all overnight stays in the in this area and to provide for public beneft and an unmanned aircraft (drone) backcountry, and for traveling on glaciers and above enjoyment. This information will help you learn more within the boundaries of Mount 10,000 feet in elevation. about the park, and protect yourself and the park. Rainier National Park is prohibited. Wilderness Camping Permits Protect the Meadows: Stay on trails. Leave all Pets and Service Animals A wilderness permit is required for all overnight wildfowers for everyone to enjoy. During hot weather do not leave pets in vehicles. camping in the park's wilderness. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Approximately two Wildlife Safety Pets are not allowed in buildings, on trails (except thirds of summer season backpacking and climbing Give animals room. The best way to stay safe when the Pacifc Crest Trail), or in off-trail or backcountry permits are made available for advance reservation. watching wildlife is to give animals room to move. areas. Leashed pets and emotional support animals Reservations must be made at least two days in Stay a minimum distance of 25 yards from most are permitted only in picnic areas, campgrounds, advance of the trip start. The remaining one third wildlife and 100 yards from predators like bears. and parking lots and on roads currently open to of permits are issued on-site on a frst-come, frst- public vehicles. They must be on leashes no longer served basis. Advance reservations are available for Bikes in the Park than six feet. peak season (June-September) on Recreation.gov. Bicycle only on roads, not on trails. Mountain bikes are permitted on Westside Road and Carbon River Service animals are allowed on trails and in park Climbing Road, but not on trails. facilities only if they are providing a service for a Each year, approximately 10,000 people attempt to person with a disability. Service dogs-in-training are climb Mount Rainier. Nearly half reach the 14,410- Accessibility not service animals under ADA, but are considered foot summit. Climbing permits are required for travel Most restrooms, visitor centers, picnic areas, pets. above 10,000 feet and/or on glaciers. Climbing amphitheaters, and designated campsites are information including fees, routes, and conditions, accessible or accessible with help by wheelchair. Camping as well as wilderness permits required for overnight Accessible lodging is available inside the park and in Camp in designated campsites only. Sleeping in stays, are available on the park website. local communities. vehicles outside of campgrounds is not permitted. Please Note: Those wishing to climb above 10,000 The park brochure is available in braille at visitor Campfres feet or onto any glaciers must pay the climbing centers and entrance stations. Campfres are only permitted in established grills in cost recovery fee AND get a climbing permit. This campgrounds and picnic areas. Campfres are not includes skiers or "single push climbers". Climbers The Kautz Creek Boardwalk Nature Trail is accessible permitted in Mount Rainier's backcountry. Collecting who wish to camp overnight must also get a with assistance in summer. An accessible trail leads frewood is prohibited. Firewood is sold in Cougar wilderness permit in order to acquire a camp site. to the base of Paradise Meadows; a portion of the Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River campgrounds. trails at Paradise are accessible with help. Pay your annual climbing fee through pay.gov; keep Firewood: Buy It Where You Burn It your receipt and print or save it on your phone to Mercury in Park Lakes Buy frewood near where you will burn it—that serve as proof of payment; and bring a picture ID. Research studies have shown mercury is present means the wood was likely cut within 50 miles of in some trout in a few park lakes. Check the where you’ll have your fre. Never bring wood from Guided climbs and seminars are available through: Department of Health website home, even if you think the frewood looks fne. • Alpine Ascents International http://www.doh.wa.gov/ for information on fsh Aged or seasoned wood is still not safe. (206) 378-1927 consumption. • International Mountain Guides Firewood sales are available in the park at the (360) 569-2609 Don’t Be A Victim! Longmire General Store and at Cougar Rock, • Rainier Mountaineering Burglaries have occurred at numerous trailheads and Ohanapecosh, and White River campgrounds. (888) 892-5462 parking areas in the park. Those responsible for the crimes were investigated, arrested by Mount Rainier Tree Hazards rangers and National Park Service special agents, Healthy trees with no defects can present a danger and convicted in court. However, these convictions under certain conditions. Stay alert for falling limbs will not necessarily end the problem of car burglaries and cones on windy days, and avoid forested areas Gas is not available in the park. during storms when possible. Sudden gusts can do inside the park. great damage to trees—as well as anything in range Gas stations are Follow these simple guidelines to avoid becoming a of falling debris. located in local victim of future break-ins: communities. • Do not leave any valuables in your vehicle, even Firearms for a short time. The use of frearms is prohibited within Mount • Do not leave bags, packs, or purses that look Rainier National Park. People who can legally possess Cellular service is like they could contain valuables visible in your frearms under federal, Washington State, and local not available in vehicle. laws may possess them in the park. However federal most of the park. At • If storing items in the trunk of your car, do so law prohibits frearms in certain facilities in this Paradise, cell service before arriving at your destination. You could be park; those places are posted with signs at public is available at lower watched at trailheads and parking lots. entrances. • Immediately report all suspicious activity you elevations. observe at or around parking lots or along roads to a park ranger.

Drive-in Campgrounds Mount Rainier National Park Check campground open/close status locally or at nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/hours.htm. Campground Elev. Sites Group Toilets Dump Maximum E-mail Sites Station RV/Trailer Length [email protected] Cougar Rock* 3,180’ 173 5 Flush Yes RV 35’/Trailer 27’ Park Headquarters Ohanapecosh* 1,914’ 188 2 Flush No RV 32’/Trailer 27’ (360) 569-2211 White River 4,232’ 112 0 Flush No RV 27’/Trailer 18’ Lost and Found Mowich Lake Primitive walk-in campground, tents only. 10 sites. No fee (must self-register at [email protected] campground kiosk). Vault toilets, no potable water. No fres allowed. Elevation Website 4,929’; generally open July through early October, depending on road and nps.gov/mora weather conditions. Call 360-829-9639 for information. Connect with @MountRainierNPS at *Advance reservations are recommended for individual sites at Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh Campgrounds. Reservations for group sites are recommended and are available throughout the season. These can be made up to one year in advance. To make a reservation online, go to www.recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777. Some sites may be closed for hazard tree mitigations.

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 | 3 Northwest: Carbon River and Mowich Lake

It's on the NPS App! Bicycling at Mount Rainier

Learn about bicycling in the park in the Things To Do section of the NPS App.

Don't have the app? Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Carbon River NPS photo

Located on the “quiet side” of the park, the Carbon Chenuis Falls (Moderate, 7.8 miles, 4.5 hours River valley showcases ancient forests, deep valleys, round-trip) Enjoy this trail that leads across the Carbon and Mowich waterfalls, and a dynamic, food-prone river Carbon River on a footlog to the gently cascading Lake Services and that fows from the Carbon Glacier, the lowest- Chenuis Falls. From the parking lot, hike or bike 3.7 elevation glacier in the contiguous . miles to the trailhead. Check trail conditions at the Facilities Or follow State Route 165 to Mowich Lake, the ranger station. The footlog is subject to wash out. park’s largest and deepest lake. Look for colorful subalpine wildfowers along its shores. From the Green Lake (Moderate, 10 miles, 5 hours Facilities may be closed, or have picnic area at road’s end, trails lead to subalpine round-trip) This trail ascends through old-growth limited hours or services. Check lakes and fower-strewn meadows. Amazing views forests to a beautiful, clear lake. A short side trail locally or at nps.gov/mora for of the park’s wilderness are your reward for hiking before Green Lake takes you to Ranger Falls. facility status. to fre lookout. From the parking lot hike or bike 3.2 miles to the trailhead. Carbon River Ranger Station Picnic Picnic tables are located at the Carbon Information and Wilderness River Ranger Station and Entrance, and along Mowich Lake Canoes glide across this Permits Mowich Lake Road at Paul Peak and Mowich Lake. subalpine lake with the wakes rufing the mountain’s refections. Enjoy the serenity while Carbon River The dynamic, glacier-fed Carbon fshing the deep waters or hiking the nearby trails. Camping There is a walk-in River continues to braid and change channels as The road to Mowich is unpaved after the frst three campground at Mowich Lake. glacial sediment deposits shape its path. miles and may be rough. Mowich is reached via A backcountry camping permit State Route 165. is required for the Ipsut Creek Carbon River Entrance Restrooms, picnic Campground at Carbon River. tables, and an interpretive trail are available. Stretch Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout (Moderate, 5.6 your legs on the short 0.3-mile interpretive trail and miles, 3 hours round-trip) The historic fre lookout Campground information is discover a unique inland rainforest among Sitka ofers spectacular panoramic views of Mount available on page 2. spruce, Douglas-fr, western hemlock, and western Rainier and surrounding areas. Follow the Mowich red cedar. Note that the bridge is out so this is not Lake shore to Ipsut Pass for views of Carbon River currently a loop trail. Valley, Eunice Lake, and the fnal ascent up Tolmie Peak. The trail begins at the last bend in the road Carbon River Trail This former road is now a on the Mowich Lake Road, 5.5 miles from the park trail due to repeated fooding. Hike or bike the trail boundary. Please stay on the main trail near Eunice through this rainforest environment as the forest Lake to protect the fragile environment. reveals views of the Carbon River and surrounding . From the parking lot, the trail gains Spray Park Trail (Moderate, 6 miles, 4 hours approximately 600 feet in elevation along its 5-mile round-trip) Beautiful subalpine meadows with length; some sections are rough and rocky. Bicycles views of Mount Rainier are some of the rewards are not permitted on any other trails in the area along this trail. The trail begins on the west side of or in any of-trail areas. Bicyclists are subject to the Mowich Lake Campground. Take the 0.25-mile the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel safely, and spur to , a 300 foot cascading waterfall. always wear a helmet.

Old Mine Trail (Moderate, 3 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Explore a trip to the past by peering into the shaft of an open mine at the trail’s end. Hike or bike 1.2 miles from the parking lot to the trailhead.

Mount Rainier Mount Rainier Washington’s National Park Mount Rainier Institute National Park Volunteers Washington Visit Rainier National Park Discover Your www.packforest.org/ Fund www.nps.gov/ Trails visitrainier.com Associates

Park Partners wnpf.org mtrainierinstitute/ mora/getinvolved/ Association Northwest www.mrnpa.org volunteer.htm www.wta.org www.discovernw.org

4 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 Southwest: Visit Historic Longmire Deep in the valley of the , the village pond, a historic cabin, and massive Douglas-fr and of Longmire preserves the history of the park’s western red cedar trees. Perfect for families and frst settlement and headquarters. The Longmire nature lovers. Across the road, visit the outdoor It's on the NPS App! Museum is the starting point for the self-guided information station at the Longmire Museum and walking tour of the Longmire Historic District, ask for Junior Ranger Activity Books, or pick up a Explore Historic Longmire where you can get a taste of early National Park to go lunch at the National Park Inn. Service rustic architecture. Follow the Trail of the Look for the Longmire Shadows to learn about the park’s frst homestead Rampart Ridge (Strenuous, 4.6 miles, 2.5 Historic District Walking and resort, next to Longmire Meadow’s mineral hours round-trip) The Rampart Ridge Trail Tour in Things To Do/Self- springs. Between Longmire and Nisqually branches of from the west side of the Trail of the Entrance, walk the Twin Firs Trail to view lowland Shadows, climbs steeply to the ridge-top, then Guided Tours. old-growth forest; picnic at Kautz Creek to view circles back to Longmire by way of the Wonderland the aftermath of the 1947 mudfow; or drive to Trail. The lower portions of this trail climb through Download the app from Apple Westside Road to see the dramatic results of stands of ancient trees of various ages. Some App Store or Google Play. fooding and rockfall. For great views of layers, Douglas-frs on the east side of the loop are around glaciers, and deep glacial canyons, stop at the 1,000 years old. viewpoints along Ricksecker Point Road, between Longmire and Paradise. (Strenuous, 7.2 miles, 5 hours round-trip) Cross the Nisqually River on the Longmire Services Bicycle or Hike Westside Road A popular historic automobile suspension bridge at Longmire mountain bike route, this gravel road is 13 miles to access the trailhead. Eagle Peak ofers panoramic and Facilities one-way with an elevation gain of approximately views of the Nisqually Valley and Mount Rainier. 1,120 feet. Bicycles are not permitted on any The lower portions of the trail climb steeply Facilities may be closed, or have park trails, or in any of-trail areas. Bicyclists are through stands of ancient Douglas-fr and younger limited hours or services. Check subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel mountain hemlock trees. locally or at nps.gov/mora for safely, and always wear a helmet. facility status. Carter Falls (Moderate, 2.2 miles, 2 hours Twin Firs (Moderate, 0.6 miles, 30 minutes round-trip) Stroll along the from round-trip) Look for the Twin Firs trail on the Cougar Rock Campground to Carter Falls. Forest Longmire Museum north side of the road one mile east of Kautz Creek ages vary from very young to very old, with some Outdoor Information Station or two miles west of Longmire. This short loop trail stands less than a century old and some more than climbs through some of the best examples of the 700 years old. Restrooms immense Douglas-frs that line much of the road between the Nisqually Entrance and Longmire. A viewpoint just of the Located between the Museum road gives you a beautiful view of Christine Falls and historic gas station. Picnic Picnic tables and restrooms can be found beneath the stone arch of the road bridge. Please at Kautz Creek, Longmire, and three miles up the pull completely of the road to park in a designated Picnic Area road at Cougar Rock Picnic Area. pullout. Walking on the road to view the waterfall Located next to the gift shop. can be hazardous. Cougar Rock Campground Situated in the southwest area of the park, this campground and Van Trump Park Wilderness Information provides easy access to Longmire and Paradise. (Strenuous, 3.6 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip to Center Campers can quickly jump on the 93-mile Comet Falls) Look for a diversity of wildfowers Information and Wilderness for a short 2.2-mile round-trip in the forest and rocky canyon environments Permits hike to Carter Falls or for longer day hikes try along this rugged trail, or climb another steep mile hiking northeast to or southwest to beyond the falls to a beautiful subalpine meadow. Longmire. National Park Inn Narada Falls A short but moderately steep walk Grab and Go food, Gift Shop, Trail of the Shadows (Easy, 0.7 miles, 30 takes you to a breathtaking view of Narada Falls, on Lodging minutes round-trip) Across the road from the the Paradise River. On a sunny day, you can often Longmire Museum and National Park Inn, This see a rainbow refracted in the cool spray of the easy loop trail takes you through the forested edge falls. Camping of a meadow passing mineral springs, a beaver The Cougar Rock Campground is located northwest of Longmire on Nisqually Road. Campground information is available on page 2.

Emergency Dial 911 from any phone Longmire Administration Building located inside the park NPS photo

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 | 5 South: Explore Paradise

It's on the NPS App! Discover Wildfowers

Discover Wildfowers is in Things To Do/Scenic Drives on the NPS App.

Don't have the app? Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Paradise Meadows

Besides glaciers, rivers, and forests, this area is Nisqually Vista (Easy, 1.2 miles, 45 minutes Paradise Services rich in history, ofers plenty of hiking, and has round-trip) Not as steep as most trails at Paradise, breathtaking vistas and a stunning profusion this route loops through fower-flled meadows and Facilities of wildfowers. Avoid crowds and trafc by and subalpine frs to a view of the Nisqually visiting early or late in the day, or by visiting Glacier. Facilities may be closed, or have mid-week. Enjoy the meadows, take in a view limited hours or services. Check of the mountain, or hike the trails. Myrtle Falls (Easy, 1 mile, 35 minutes round- locally or at nps.gov/mora for trip) The trail to Myrtle Falls gradually climbs facility status. A network of hiking trails provides access to through lush meadows to 60-foot Myrtle Falls. outstanding wildfower meadows, broad views You can’t beat this walk for wildfowers or for the Visitor Center of Mount Rainier and its glaciers, and routes drama of cascading water. Keep your eyes and ears for skilled climbers attempting to reach the Restrooms, Water Fountain, open for hoary marmots; they often sunbathe on mountain’s summit. Photographers appreciate the rocks above the creek. Outdoor Information Station, the high-country scenery at Inspiration Point Information Boards, Grab and and Refection Lakes. Hikers looking for Alta Vista via the Alta Vista & Skyline Go Food, Drinks less-crowded trails might try the Lakes Trail, Trails (Moderate, 1.75 miles, 1.25 hours round- Mazama Ridge, and Snow Lake Trail, located trip) This short hike climbs to the top of Alta Paradise Inn just east of Paradise. Consider Nisqually Vista Peak for outstanding views of Mount Rainier, or Myrtle Falls for young hikers, or Alta Vista the Tatoosh Range, and, in the distance, Mount Grab and Go Food, Sit Down or Glacier Vista for the more ambitious. Take Adams. Watch for marmots as you pass through the Dinners by reservation only, Gift lots of water and sunscreen! colorful meadows. Shop, Lodging Picnic Enjoy your picnic at the main picnic area, Skyline Trail (Strenuous, 5.5 miles, 4.5 hours Plaza Restrooms located below the lower parking lot. There are also round-trip) This trail ofers a grand tour of picnic tables in the plaza outside the visitor center. Paradise Meadows, passing Alta Vista, Glacier Located off the upper parking Vista, Panorama Point, Pebble Creek, and Sluiskin lot, adjacent to the main plaza. Information Boards Stop at one of the and Myrtle falls. The elevation ranges from 5,400 to information boards set up around Paradise for trip 7,000 feet, with wet and dry, exposed and sheltered Picnic Area planning information and maps. habitats. Shorter sections of the trail can be done, Located below and across the too. Outdoor Information Station To pick road from the lower parking up a brochure or talk to a ranger, look for the Great Mountain Views Mount Rainier can lot. information station set up outside the visitor be seen from many locations at Paradise. You may center. need to move a short distance or wait for some Paradise Wilderness clouds to move, but the parking lots, plazas, and Information Center (Guide Deadhorse Creek (Moderate, 2.5 miles, 1.75 trails all ofer views of the mountain when skies hours round-trip) The fowers in this sheltered are clear. There is no one best spot to see the House) canyon bloom later but often more luxuriantly than mountain, but we recommend the Nisqually Vista Information and Wilderness anywhere else. Loop back on the Skyline Trail or Trail or the Alta Vista via the Alta Vista and Skyline Permits continue on to Glacier Vista. Trails.

Heads Up! Paradise Area Utility Work

Expect traffc and parking impacts in lower Paradise and the Paradise picnic area through early November due to utility work.

Please drive slowly and avoid blocking work zones. Tatoosh Range and Autumn Sunset JD Hascup photo

6 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 Best Trails for Waterfall Views Follow one designated a National Historic Landmark District. of these hikes to view waterfalls in or near Paradise. Notice the massive timbers and local stone blending Stay safe by not walking or climbing on rocks near the buildings with the natural settings and the steeply waterfalls. Please stay on designated trails. pitched roofs that shed heavy snow loads.

Skyline Trail to Myrtle Falls and view of Sluiskin Paradise Inn, one of the oldest inns in the Falls View Sluiskin Falls northwest of Myrtle Falls National Park system, opened in 1917. The natural from the Skyline Trail just past Myrtle Falls. log architecture and handmade furniture makes a visit here feel like stepping into the past. Former Paradise to Ruby Falls and Narada Falls President Harry Truman played the piano in 1945. (2.2 miles round-trip. 800’ elevation gain, average For online Paradise hiking time: 1.5 hours.) From the southeast corner Historic Paradise Ranger Station was built information scan the QR code of the upper parking lot, take the Lakes Trail down. in 1921. It is the small building at the top of the or go to Follow signs for Narada Falls. Enjoy the cascading parking area. It is not open to the public and is now https://www.nps.gov/mora/ Ruby Falls before reaching the Narada Falls used for emergency service employees. planyourvisit/paradise-basic- parking area and viewpoint. Return the same route. info.htm Guide House was built in 1920. For many years Historic Buildings Paradise has long been a climbers began their climbs to Mount Rainier's destination for people attracted to Mount Rainier. summit from its threshold. In 1886, early entrepreneurs began providing visitor services at Paradise. Since then, the need Paradise Camp Lodge was constructed in 1931 for visitor facilities has grown and changed. Much and demolished in the mid-1950s. The current of the 1920's village-like development has been visitor center stands on the original footprint of Emergency: Dial 911 removed throughout the years. Even so, in 1990, this building. Explore the signs and displays on the the roads, buildings, and trails that remained were south side of the visitor center. Discover Reflection Lakes and Nearby Trails

A short drive down the scenic Paradise Valley Road and along the top of Stevens Canyon Road leads to the picturesque subalpine scene of Refection Lakes with Mount Rainier towering above. Often, the refection of Mount Rainier is mirrored in the lakes. The Lakes Trail from Paradise to Refection Lakes is an excellent alternative for those interested in getting in a hike.

Along the Way As you pass through Paradise Lakes Loop (Moderate, 5 miles, Bench and Snow Lakes Pinnacle Peak (Moderate, 3.0 Valley enjoy the wildfowers in 4 hours round-trip) The trail winds (Moderate, 2.5 miles, 2 hours miles, 3 hours round-trip) Enjoy summer or fall colors later in the through picturesque subalpine round-trip) Watch for views of abundant wildfowers and spectacular year, watch for marmots and scan meadows and forests and along Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh panoramic views including Mount's the valley and hillsides for black subalpine lakes. This loop passes Range, wildfowers in the spring, Rainier, Adams, St. Helens, and Hood. bear. After turning onto Stevens through Paradise circling along huckleberries in the fall, and wildlife This trail winds high onto the rocky Canyon Road, stop at Inspiration Mazama Ridge down to Refection year-round on your way to these slopes of the Tatoosh Mountain Range. Point for views of Mount Rainier Lakes. Consider hiking this trail to subalpine lakes. This trail is east of The trail starts across the road from and the Tatoosh Range. Paradise from Refection Lakes. Refection Lakes. Refection Lakes.

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 | 7 Southeast: Stevens Canyon and Ohanapecosh Ohanapecosh, in the park’s southeast corner, lies Ohanapecosh Campground Spend the deep in the realm of the old-growth forest. From night among the big trees in the Ohanapecosh It's on the NPS App! the visitor center and campground, trails follow the Campground or hike one of the many trails Ohanapecosh River past hot springs and shaded through old-growth forest. The most family- Freshwater Fishing streams to the roaring cascade of Silver Falls. Walk friendly campground in the park features big trees, the trail to the Grove of the Patriarchs, just past creeks, and the Ohanapecosh River. Take a short Learn about fshing inside the Stevens Canyon Entrance, to view ancient stroll through the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs or the park on the NPS App. trees—some over 1,000 years old. Strong hikers will hike a 2.5 mile loop along the river to Silver Falls. enjoy the incredible view from the Shriner Peak Don't have the app? Download fre lookout, east of State Route 123, and the string Silver Falls Trail (Moderate, 3 miles, 2 hours at White River Entrance parking of waterfalls along the East Side Trail. On Stevens round-trip) This loop trail winds among 500 year area or Paradise. Cell service is Canyon Road between Ohanapecosh and Paradise, old trees along both sides of the Ohanapecosh not available at Ohanapecosh. dramatic viewpoints and a picnic area are found at River. It is one of the best places to look for forest Box Canyon, where the cuts a deep wildfowers and mushrooms, including many slot into glacially-scoured bedrock. species uniquely found in the old-growth forest environment. Picnic Picnic among the big trees at the Ohanapecosh Picnic Area, or stop at the picnic area Shriner Peak (Strenuous, 8.4 miles, 6 hours Ohanapecosh west of Box Canyon. round-trip) One of the steepest trails in the park climbs through the forest to an old burn, where dry Services and Stevens Canyon West of Ohanapecosh, the meadow fowers like bear grass and paintbrush are park road traverses spectacular Stevens Canyon. abundant in the summer. A backcountry campsite Facilities During the summer, watch for wildfowers along is located at the top, near the historic fre lookout. the road. Later in the year, enjoy magnifcent fall There is no water along this trail during most of the Facilities may be closed, or have colors as huckleberries, vine maples, and mountain season, and little shade. limited hours or services. Check ash turn scarlet and purple. locally or at nps.gov/mora for East Side Trail (Moderate, 11.5 miles, 6 hours facility status. Box Canyon Trail (Easy, 0.5 mile, 30 minutes one-way) Hike south from Deer Creek to the round-trip) Follow the path of a glacier that has Grove of the Patriarchs past 700 - 1,000 year old Visitor Center receded revealing evidence of polished slabs of trees along Chinook Creek and the Ohanapecosh rock. These rocks also show evidence of glacial River. This trail is best done with two vehicles, one Outdoor Information Station movement with striations or scratch marks caused parked at each end of the trail. by ice-embedded rocks scraping their surfaces. A Restrooms half-mile loop trail takes you to a viewpoint of two Located adjacent to the visitor volcanoes and the steep, narrow box canyon of the center and in campground Cowlitz River. Restrooms are just of the parking lot. A nearby picnic area is a great place to have loops. lunch. Trail work is currently underway in this area, but access to the overlook and footbridge will be Picnic Area maintained. Located across from the visitor Grove of the Patriarchs (Easy, 1.3 miles, center. 1 hour round-trip) At the east end of the Stevens Canyon Road is one of the most accessible stands Camping of ancient trees in the park. A short self-guided The Ohanapecosh Campground nature trail and suspension bridge take you to a is located in the southwest boardwalk loop through 1,000 year old Douglas- corner of the park on SR123. fr and western red cedar trees, protected from forest fres on an island in the Ohanapecosh River. Campground information is Restrooms are located by the parking lot. available on page 2.

Stevens Canyon Road Construction Delays

Construction delays up to 30 minutes are possible on Stevens Canyon Road this summer and fall.

For information on this Great America Outdoors Project check park bulletin boards or nps.gov/mora.

Silver Falls NPS photo 8 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 Northeast: Experience Sunrise and White River

It's on the NPS App! Sunrise Geology Tour

Follow the tour to explore the geology of the Sunrise area with USGS geologists.

Don't have the app? Cellular data is normally accessible at the White River Entrance parking area. Peak Bloom at Sunrise NPS photo

The White River/Sunrise Road leads from State Silver Forest Trail (Easy, 2 miles, 1 hour Route 410 toward the White River Campground round-trip) This lovely stroll includes abundant Sunrise and White and high-country trailheads. From here, trails lead wildfowers and breathtaking views of the White hikers to subalpine wilderness or to the moraine of River Valley, , and Mount Rainier. River Services and the Emmons Glacier, the largest American glacier Facilities outside of . Continuing up the road toward Berkeley Park (Strenuous, 7 miles, 5 hours Sunrise, look for outcrops of columnar lava, round-trip) Hiking into Berkeley Park provides Facilities may be closed, or have hillsides of wildfowers, and a breathtaking vista at an opportunity to experience a sampling of the limited hours or services. Check Sunrise Point. Washington’s highest paved highway park’s wilderness. Towering mountains, subalpine locally or at nps.gov/mora for ends at Sunrise (6,400 feet), where summertime meadows, multiple cascading streams, and wildlife facility status. crowds come to enjoy the area’s open meadows excite the senses as you descend into this valley. and expansive scenery, considered by some to be the grandest views in the park. Along State Route (Strenuous, 5.6 miles, White River Wilderness 410, a trail leads strong hikers up to the scenic 3.5 hours round-trip) This historic fre lookout Information Center Crystal Lakes basin, and the Tipsoo Lake area near provides expansive panoramic views of the Information and Wilderness Chinook Pass provides a picnic area next to the northeast side of the park. The trail passes Permits lake and its lush meadows. through subalpine meadows to rocky slopes with low-growing plants adapted to the harsh alpine Picnic Enjoy lunch with a view at picnic areas environment. Restrooms located at Sunrise, White River Campground, and Located at White River Entrance Tipsoo Lake. Sourdough Ridge Trail to Dege Peak Area, White River Campground (Moderate, 4.2 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip) Picnic Area, Sunrise, and Tipsoo Owyhigh Lakes Trail (Moderate, 7 miles, Experience ridgeline hiking along the Sourdough 3.5 hours round-trip) This hike ofers solitude Mountains with spectacular views of the Sunrise amongst old-growth forests to subalpine meadows area, Mount Rainier, glaciers, subalpine meadows, White River Picnic Area and lakes. From the White River Road, climb wildlife, and the Cascade Mountain range. Located in the campground. steadily up the side of Tamanos Mountain through a 700 year old forest to Owyhigh Lakes. First Trail Sunrise Visitor Center (Strenuous, 4.8 miles, 3 hours round-trip) Outdoor Information Station White River Patrol Cabin Take a stroll Ascending high onto First Burroughs Mountain, back in time and discover the important role these this trail leads into -like environment cabins played in protecting the park. Located in the with unobscured views of Mount Rainier. Sunrise Picnic Area White River Campground. Following the top of this old lava fow, you feel as if Located north of the visitor center. you could almost touch the mountain. Glacier Basin Trail (Moderate, 6.5 miles, 6 Sunrise Day Lodge hours round-trip) Following in the footsteps of Tipsoo Lake and (Moderate, climbers, this trail leads to subalpine meadows, 3.5 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Wildfowers grow Grab and Go Food, Gift Shop surrounded by mountains, and a backcountry thick around this beautiful subalpine lake. Take a camp. short stroll around the lake or branch of on the Camping longer and more diverse Naches Peak Loop, which The White River Campground Emmons Moraine Trail (Easy, 3 miles, features diferent fowers on the wetter west side is located at the intersection of 3 hours round-trip) Turn of on the spur trail from and drier east side of the peak. This trail is located the Glacier Basin Trail to view the massive Emmons east of White River near Chinook Pass on SR 410. White River Road and Sunrise Glacier, the largest by area in the lower 48 states, Road. Campground information with Mount Rainier towering above. The frst part of is available on page 2. this trail ofers cascading waterfalls and cool forests.

Sunrise Hiking, gift shop, grab and go food, and restrooms are available. Numerous trails, of various Roadwork Ahead! lengths and degrees of difculty, begin from the Eastside Road Delays parking lot and wander through meadows flled with wildfowers during the peak bloom. Expect construction delays related to the fnals steps in road resurfacing on SR410 and Emergency SR123 through Dial 911 from any phone July. located inside the park

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 | 9 Protect the Park, Protect Yourself

BEFORE STEPPING OFF THE TRAIL...... consider this: each step into a meadow crushes an average of 17 plants!

When exploring Mount Rainier’s fragile meadows, hike only on maintained trails or thick patches of snow.

Love the Meadows? Stay on Trails to Protect Them! Many visitors come to Mount Rainier National While we all might like a "Sound of Music" Park because of its world-famous subalpine meadow moment or the opportunity to capture meadows. In summer, meadows are flled with the "perfect" selfe, these popular areas cannot colorful displays of wildfowers, which bloom accommodate the desires of the many who wish profusely during the short growing season. These to wander of the trail. When you see something subalpine plants live by thin margins, facing ferce you want to capture on your camera remember to competition for resources and enduring long use your zoom function instead of stepping closer. winters and harsh conditions. After surviving all The iconic views, the wildlife, and wildfowers can this, their greatest threat may be the millions of usually be seen from on-trail too, perhaps a little visitors coming to appreciate them. further up or a little further on. Travel of-trail is not necessary to make great memories here. Subalpine areas, such as Paradise and Sunrise, receive the pressure and impact of up to four Join Mount Rainier National Park in its mission million human feet per year (the park has to preserve and protect these precious subalpine approximately two million visitors annually), meadows by staying on trail during your visit. Your much of it concentrated within the same visitation actions will keep Mount Rainier's meadows healthy corridors. It is not just your feet, but the cumulative and scenic into the future. daily efect of yours and many others that takes a serious toll on subalpine plants. Snow? In July? Hiking Safety on Late-Season Snow

The deep mantle of snow covering the slopes of Mount Rainier will take longer than usual to melt this year due to last winter's heavier than normal snowfall. Some hiking trails will remain snow- covered well into the summer. Hikers expecting dry trails may encounter challenging conditions and other hazards due to lingering patches of snow. Trails that would otherwise be considered easy may be too difcult or unsafe to navigate.

• Choose to turn around instead of crossing steep, snow–covered slopes. A fall could be disastrous. Comet Falls and Pinnacle Peak trails often have hazardous slopes. Take an ice axe if you know how to use it. • Falling through thin snow bridges is a hazard anywhere streams remain snow-covered. Listen for the mufed sound of running water under the snow. Understand the dangers and signs • Avoid the Myrtle Falls area until snow-free. of thinning snow bridges, tree wells, Several hazards exist at Myrtle Fall including steep snow slopes, snow cornices, punching through snow, snow cornices, and and melt holes. steep, icy slopes. • Avoid stepping onto snow cornices (ledges of • Falling into snow moats around trees (tree snow that overhang an edge, ridgeline, etc.) as wells), and adjacent to logs and rocks, can they may collapse under your weight. cause injury. Avoid getting too close. • You may need reliable map and compass to • Avoid stepping on wet, slippery rocks, traverse snow-covered trails, which can be especially near rivers and waterfalls. Common difcult to follow, particularly in backcountry hazard areas are Narada Falls and Silver areas. Panhandle Gap, Spray Park, and Falls. Seattle Park are frequent problem areas. • Before starting your hike, stop by a Wilderness • Beware of avalanches! Unstable snow may slide Information Center or visitor center for the at any time...not just in winter! latest trail conditions.

Mount Rainier: An Active Volcano

Active steam vents, If you are near a river and notice a rapid rise periodic earth in water level, feel a prolonged shaking of the tremors, and historic ground, and/or hear a roaring sound coming from eruptions provide upvalley––often described as the sound made by a evidence that Mount fast–moving freight train––move quickly to higher Rainier is sleeping, not dead. Seismic monitoring ground––200 feet above river level should be safe. stations around the mountain should provide days or weeks of advance warning of impending Detailed information is available at park visitor eruptions. Other geologic hazards, however, can centers or from scientists at the USGS Cascades occur with little warning. These include debris Volcano Observatory, vulcan.wr.usgs.gov. fows and rockfalls.

10 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 Know Before You Go Hazards of the Season Your National Parks Are A beautiful day on the mountain can turn into • If visibility is poor, do not travel at all. dangerous whiteout conditions in a matter of • Plan your route ahead of time, have a backup There for You, Now, You minutes, even in summer. Knowing what to do plan, and never travel alone. Can Be There for Them and making the right decision can be the diference between life and death. Snow Avalanches The greatest danger is an avalanche that you Washington’s National Park Fund (WNPF) makes it easy Winter snowpack may linger late into summer trigger by skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, for people who love Mount on the mountain with snow potentially covering or climbing. Be prepared for travel in avalanche Rainier National Park to give back to this special portions of trails into August. However, keep in terrain. Carry a transceiver, probe, and shovel and place. mind that snow is not the only issue when it comes know how to use them. Determine if the location to safe backcountry travel. you are traveling is avalanche prone. If in doubt, ask questions or don’t go. Unstable snow may WNPF is the only partner providing philanthropic Route-fnding Challenges slide at any time, not just in winter! Even small support exclusively to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic national parks. Trails may be snow-free at lower elevations avalanches can be deadly. Your support helps fund priority projects but anticipate and prepare for snow at higher that advance science and research, improve elevations. Conditions change rapidly during the Mountain Weather Changes Rapidly visitors’ experiences, expand volunteerism and day and footprints in the snow quickly disappear. A pleasant outing can quickly transform into a stewardship, and provide for youth and family This has left many day hikers disoriented upon survival ordeal. Proper gear (adequate boots, ice programs. Here at Mount Rainier, WNPF provides their return trip, expecting to simply follow their axe, the ten essentials, etc.) is a must. Navigation support for over 2,000 volunteers, whose eforts own tracks back to the snow-free trail. This results in storms and whiteouts can be extremely difcult. are valued at $1.8 million! in many lost individuals, injuries, and fatalities. If you’re ascending and clouds or fog start rolling When route-fnding, note important landmarks. If in, turn around and head back to the trailhead. If the trail becomes difcult to follow, stop and fnd that’s not possible, stop, dig in, and wait for better where you are on the map before continuing. weather.

Be Prepared Cross Streams Safely If at any point you feel uncomfortable or Many hikers underestimate the power of moving unprepared, turn around. If you plan on retracing water and some consider their former successful There are lots of ways to give. Whether you your route back to the trailhead consider using stream crossings as a ticket to the other side. This purchase a Washington National Parks license wands on snow-covered trails. Always carry a good may not be true. Use these pointers in making wise plate for your vehicle, participate in a WNPF map and compass, and actively use them. For best decisions when crossing streams. event, include WNPF in your estate plans, or give coverage beneath a forest canopy supplement your monthly, it all adds up and makes a diference. map and compass with an external-antenna GPS. • Attending training in safe stream crossings is recommended. Learn more by visiting WNPF’s website at WNPF. Consider the steep snow slopes, melt holes, • Early morning when river levels are generally org, emailing [email protected], or following WNPF thinning snow bridges, and other early season at their lowest is the best time to cross. on social media @WANatlParkFund. hazards that you may encounter, and be honest • Look for an area with a smooth bottom and with yourself in assessing your skills and slow-moving water below knee height. experience. • Before crossing, scout downstream for log jams, waterfalls, and other hazards that could Plan Ahead trap you. Locate a point where you can exit if • Protect yourself by wearing appropriate you fall in. Keep Wildlife Wild outdoor clothing including footwear. • Use a sturdy stick to maintain two points of • Be prepared for rapidly changing weather. contact with the ground at all times. • Carry the Ten Essentials even on a short • Unfasten the belt of your pack so you can Mount Rainier sightseeing hike. easily discard it if necessary. provides habitat • Always tell someone of your travel plans so • Staring down at moving water can make you for many species they can notify the park if you fail to return. dizzy. Look forward as much as possible. of animals. When you visit the park, you are visiting their home. The choices you Classic Backcountry Practices make have a direct effect on the wild animals that live here.

Feeding wildlife harms animals • Nest predators like jays and ravens will be attracted to the area and therefore may decrease populations of songbirds inhabiting that area. Eastside Trail Giants • Wildlife will be drawn to areas NPS photo with high vehicle traffc, causing animals to get struck by cars. CARRY THE 10 ESSENTIALS LEAVE NO TRACE • Many animals have specialized and know how to use them! diets and the wrong foods can • Plan ahead & be prepared negatively affect their health. 1. Map and compass • Travel & camp on durable 2. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat surfaces Help keep park wildlife wild 3. Extra clothing (warm!) and gear • Dispose of waste properly 4. Flashlight or head lamp (extra • Leave what you fnd • Do not feed animals, including batteries) • Minimize campfre impacts* birds. 5. First aid supplies including hand • Respect wildlife • Store your food in an animal-proof sanitizer and masks as appropriate • Be considerate of others container, or inside your car. 6. Waterproof matches or lighter • Do not leave food, beverages, pet 7. Repair kit and tools (for gear) *Fires are for emergency use only; food, or toiletries unattended for 8. Extra food they are not allowed in Mount any length of time. 9. Extra water Rainier’s Wilderness. • Clean up picnic areas after you 10. Emergency shelter eat. Learn more at lnt.org.

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021 | 11 Keep Yourself and Others Healthy

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

COVID-19 Safety Alert

The National Park Service follows CDC guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If you are not yet fully vaccinated, wearing a mask is required in federal buildings and outdoors when physical distancing cannot be maintained. If you feel sick, please visit another day.

Practice social distancing. Maintain at least 6 feet of distance between you and others.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.

Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Thank you for helping to keep yourself and others safe and healthy.

12 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2021