MountMount Rainier Rainier National National Park Park Visitor Guide 2020

John Chao photo

Expect limited services and facilities due to COVID-19 impacts. Check locally or at nps.gov/mora for facility status. Welcome to National Park! The mission of the National Park Service is to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and 2020 SEASON ALERTS values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, Backcountry Camping Permits education, and inspiration of this and future generations. We proudly hold parks in trust for the American people and, even more proudly, welcome All permits must be obtained in visitors from all communities back into Mount Rainier advance of your visit. A wilderness National Park as coronavirus pandemic restrictions permit is required for all overnight begin to ease. camping in the wilderness of Mount Rainier National Park. Walk-up permits It is also our mission to keep everyone at Mount Rainier will not be issued until it is safe and Stay Healthy: healthy, including our staf and all who visit. To that practical to do so. For permits and end, Mount Rainier is modifying visitor services to Recreate Responsibly information visit https://www.nps.gov/ help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Some mora/planyourvisit/wilderness-permit.htm. facilities and programs will be closed or cancelled. Avoid crowded areas. Seek another location to recreate. Disappointment Cleaver Please check locally and on the park website for current information and continue to follow CDC guidelines. As Climbing Route Changes circumstances continue to change and we modify our Practice physical distancing. operations as necessary, we thank you for your patience Keep six feet between you and Climbers will fnd very different and cooperation. anyone who doesn’t live with you. conditions on this route this season. For an indefnite period this summer, it Mount Rainier is a beacon to many, attracting a diversity Wear a mask and practice good will no longer be a novice climbing route. of people to its slopes. We welcome all who come and hygiene. Keep your hands clean For more information visit https://www. encourage everyone to make this a safe place for all to and avoid touching any high- nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/climbing.htm. enjoy. traffc surfaces. Wear a mask when you must be in close contact with Plan Ahead for Limited Services We urge you to recreate responsibly by parking only others. in designated areas, packing out everything you bring Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many with you, visiting at times other than busiest of the Leave no trace. Always pack out visitor centers, ranger stations, and day, maintaining social distance from others and if what you pack in, including gloves hospitality services will be closed or you encounter a crowded trailhead or overlook, seek and masks. providing limited services this year. another location to recreate. For current information on services check Don’t take unnecessary risks. locally or the park website https://www. We hope you will fnd the fresh air, beauty, and solitude Be extra vigilant and avoid injury nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/covid-19- of this mountain to be restorative. While returning to visitor-guide.htm nature may seem safe, it is critical to remain vigilant and the need for Search and despite the feeling of distancing ourselves from the Rescue (SAR). Each mission poses spread of coronavirus. potential exposure of SAR teams to coronavirus.

What's Inside? Keep in Touch! Explore Mount Rainier ...... 2-3 Exploring Paradise ...... 6-7 Mount Rainier National Park www.nps.gov/mora Campgrounds ...... 3 Ohanapecosh ...... 8 and Mowich ...... 4 Sunrise and White River ...... 9 Visiting Longmire ...... 5 Safety and Hiking ...... 10-11 @MountRainierNPS Carbon River 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 peak in the and an icon of summer weekends at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove traditional land of the the Pacific Northwest. While the mountain's of the Patriarchs, and at trailheads between Cowlitz, Muckleshoot, well-known profile is visible for many miles in Longmire and Paradise. To avoid congestion, Nisqually, Puyallup, every direction, its alpine, glacier-clad slopes visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early, and occupy only a third of Mount Rainier National carpool. Squaxin Island, and Park. There are as many different sides of the Yakama tribes. Indigenous park as there are views of Mount Rainier. Take Park roads are winding, road traditional practices are the time to explore the other two-thirds of the shoulders are narrow, and the park and discover what lies within the shadow intrinsic with the land and speed limit is 35 mph in most of this great mountain that local American areas. Watch for pedestrians, continue to this day. 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 Gas is not National Park has something for you. This available inside Visitor Guide includes information that will If you are in the park on a busy day, you may the park. Gas 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 stations are seek out these special places, you can immerse located in local There are five major visitor areas in the park: yourself in an old-growth forest, reflect next to communities. • Longmire (southwest) a cascading waterfall, hike in virtual solitude, • Paradise (south side) or just relax, take in the view, and reconnect Cellular service • Ohanapecosh (southeast) with nature. No matter where you go in the is not available • Sunrise/White River (northeast) park you will find spectacular scenery and a in most of the • Carbon River/ multitude of recreational opportunities! (northwest) park. At Paradise, cell service is available at lower Get the Most Out of Your Visit elevations. 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? How Far Is It? One Way • Drive to Sunrise for a picnic, a short hike to • Hike into the Tatoosh Range for excellent views Driving Times Emmons Vista, and outstanding mountain and of the mountain. Hardy hikers can try the Eagle & Distances glacier views. Download and listen to the free Peak or Pinnacle Peak trails. Sunrise Road Geology Audio tour along the • Visit Refection Lakes for amazing views of Road Distance Time way https://go.usa.gov/xwXt2. Stop at White the mountain that will may be refecting in River for the best data service to download. the lake's surface. Then hike up to Bench and Longmire to Paradise 12 miles 25 min • Visit and Tipsoo Lake for a lakes for a moderate hike. hike around the lake through lush subalpine • Take a geology tour along the southside of the Paradise to Ohanapecosh 23 miles 45 min meadows. park. Stops include (west to east) Westside via Stevens Canyon Rd • Hike two miles round-trip along the Road, Kautz Creek, Glacier Bridge, Ricksecker **Ohanapecosh to White from the Ohanapecosh Point, Inspiration Point, Box Canyon, and 18 miles 30 min Campground to view Silver Falls. viewpoints along the way. River Entrance • Explore Longmire's historic district and hike • Spend the day hiking through subalpine White River Entrance to meadows at Sunrise or Paradise. 13 miles 45 min the Trail of the Shadows. Sunrise • Hike Nisqually Vista or Myrtle Falls trails at • Hike a section of the 93-mile Wonderland Paradise and enjoy a picnic with a view! Trail that encircles the mountain. Many people White River Entrance • Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs loop trail to hike this trail in sections. Try hiking from Lake to Carbon River via 61 miles 2 hrs explore an ancient old-growth forest. Louise to Box Canyon in Stevens Canyon or Enumclaw • Take a drive through the park stopping at Sunrise to White River, Longmire to Narada Longmire to Carbon River overlooks of mountain views, waterfalls, and Falls or Refection Lakes. All require a vehicle 80 miles 2.5 hrs via Eatonville/Orting geologic features. at each trailhead. • Some great hikes for young families are Trail • Take a drive up the dirt road to Mowich Lake Longmire to Mowich Lake 89 miles 3 hrs of the Shadows at Longmire, Nisqually Vista to see the park's deepest lake surrounded by via Eatonville/Orting at Paradise, Box Canyon loop trail in Stevens wildfowers in summer, followed by a hike to Canyon, Hot Springs trail at Ohanapecosh, Spray Park for mountain views. **Expect delays when traveling Sunrise Rim at Sunrise, and Grove of the • Hike to a historic fre lookout for great views of Stevens Canyon Road. Patriarchs near Stevens Canyon Entrance. the mountain and surrounding area.

2 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 What You Need to Know Mount Rainier National Park was No Drone Zone! Protect the meadows: Stay on trails. Permits established in 1899 to preserve the Launching, landing, Leave all wildfowers for everyone to Permits are required for all overnight enjoy. natural and cultural resources in this or operating an stays in the backcountry, and for area and to provide for public beneft unmanned aircraft traveling on glaciers and above Climbing and enjoyment. This information will (drone) within 10,000 feet in elevation. help you learn more about the park, the boundaries Each year, approximately 10,000 and protect yourself and the park. of Mount Rainier people attempt to climb Mount Wilderness Camping Permits National Park is Rainier. Nearly half reach the 14,410- The park’s permitting process has Accessibility prohibited. foot summit. Climbing permits are changed for the 2020 season in Most restrooms, visitor centers, picnic required for travel above 10,000 response to the COVID-19 pandemic. areas, amphitheaters, and designated Campfres feet and/or on glaciers. Climbing At this time, we anticipate continued campsites are accessible or accessible Are only permitted in established grills information including fees, routes, access to the Mount Rainier Wilderness with help by wheelchair. Accessible in campgrounds and picnic areas. and conditions, as well as wilderness during the summer season, but lodging is available inside the park and Campfres are not permitted in Mount permits required for overnight stays, walk-up permits will not be offered in local communities. Rainier's backcountry. Collecting are available on the park website. until it is safe and practical to do so. frewood is prohibited. Firewood is All permits must be obtained in The park brochure is available in braille sold in Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh Please Note: Those wishing to climb advance. at visitor centers and entrance stations. and White River campgrounds. above 10,000 feet or onto any glaciers must pay the climbing cost recovery A wilderness permit is required for The Kautz Creek Boardwalk Nature Wildlife Safety fee AND get a climbing permit. all overnight camping in the park's Trail is accessible with assistance in Give animals room. The best way to This includes skiers or "single push wilderness. All wilderness permits summer. An accessible trail leads to stay safe when watching wildlife is climbers". Climbers who wish to camp must be obtained in advance. Walk- the base of Paradise Meadows; a to give animals room to move. Stay a overnight must also get a wilderness up permits will not be issued. Permit portion of the trails at Paradise are minimum distance of 25 yards from permit in order to acquire a camp site. requests will not be accepted after accessible with help. most wildlife and 100 yards from October 10, and all permits after that predators like bears. Pay your annual climbing fee through date will be at self-registration stations. Mercury in Park Lakes pay.gov; keep your receipt and print or Research studies have shown mercury Bikes in the Park save it on your phone to serve as proof is present in some trout in a few Bicycle only on roads, not on trails. of payment; and bring a picture ID. park lakes. Check the Mountain bikes are permitted on Department of Health website http:// Westside Road and Carbon River Road, For the 2020 season, guided climbs www.doh.wa.gov/ for information on but not on trails. and seminars are available through: fsh consumption. • Alpine Ascents International Camping (206) 378-1927 Don’t Be A Victim! Camp in designated campsites • International Mountain Guides Burglaries have occurred at numerous only. Sleeping in vehicles outside of (360) 569-2609 Mount Rainier: An Active Volcano trailheads and parking areas in the campgrounds is not permitted. • Rainier Mountaineering Active steam vents, periodic earth park. Those responsible for the crimes (888) 892-5462 tremors, and historic eruptions were investigated, arrested by Mount Firewood: Buy It Where You Burn It provide evidence that Mount Rainier is Rainier rangers and National Park Buy frewood near where you will burn Pets and Service Animals sleeping, not dead. Seismic monitoring Service special agents, and convicted it–that means the wood was likely During hot weather do not leave pets stations around the mountain should in court. However, these convictions cut within 50 miles of where you’ll in vehicles. provide days or weeks of advance will not necessarily end the problem of have your fre. Never bring wood from warning of impending eruptions. Other car burglaries in the park. home, even if you think the frewood Leashed pets and emotional support geologic hazards, however, can occur looks fne. Aged or seasoned wood is animals are permitted only in picnic with little warning. These include Follow these simple guidelines to still not safe. areas, campgrounds, and parking lots debris fows and rockfalls. avoid becoming a victim of future car and on roads currently open to public break-ins: Firewood sales are available in the park vehicles. They must be on leashes If you are near a river and notice • Do not leave any valuables in your at the Longmire General Store and no longer than six feet and are not a rapid rise in water level, feel a vehicle, even for a short time. at Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and allowed in buildings, on trails (except prolonged shaking of the ground, and/ • Do not leave bags, packs, or White River campgrounds. the PCT), or in off-trail or backcountry or hear a roaring sound coming from purses, that look like they could areas. upvalley––often described as the sound contain valuables visible in your Tree Hazards made by a fast–moving freight train–– vehicle. Healthy trees with no defects can Service animals are allowed on trails move quickly to higher ground––200 • If storing items in the trunk of present a danger under certain and in park facilities only if they are feet above river level should be safe. your car, do so before arriving at conditions. Stay alert for falling limbs providing a service for a person with a your destination. You could be and cones on windy days, and avoid disability. Service dogs-in-training are Detailed information is available at watched at trailheads and parking forested areas during storms when not service animals under ADA, but park visitor centers or from scientists lots. possible. Sudden gusts can do great are considered pets. at the U.S.G.S. Cascades Volcano • Immediately report all suspicious damage to trees—as well as anything Observatory, vulcan.wr.usgs.gov. activity you observe at or around in range of falling debris. 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. Camp- Elev. Sites Group Toilets Dump Maximum Superintendent ground Sites Station RV/Trailer Length Chip Jenkins Cougar Rock* 3,180’ 173 5 Flush Yes RV 35’/Trailer 27’ Mailing Address Ohanapecosh* 1,914’ 188 2 Flush No RV 32’/Trailer 27’ 55210 238th Avenue East Ashford, WA 98304 White River 4,232’ 112 0 Flush No RV 27’/Trailer 18’ E-mail 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 4,929’; generally open July through early October, depending on road and Park Headquarters weather conditions. Call 360-829-9639 for information. (360) 569-2211 *Advance reservations are recommended for individual sites at Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh Lost and Found Campgrounds. Reservations for group sites are recommended and are available throughout the (360) 569-6608 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 2020 | 3 Northwest: Carbon River and Mowich Lake

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, fower-strewn meadows, and amazing views forests to the beautiful clear lake. A short side locally or at nps.gov/mora for of the park’s wilderness from the fre trail before Green Lake takes you to Ranger Falls. facility status. 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 Obtain permits online prior to River Ranger Station and Entrance, and along Mowich Lake Canoes glide across this arrival in the park. Mowich Lake Road at Paul Peak and Mowich Lake. subalpine lake with the wakes rufing the mountain’s refections. Enjoy the serenity while Camping There is a walk-in Carbon River The dynamic, glacier-fed fshing the deep waters or hiking the nearby trails. campground at Mowich Lake. Carbon River that continues to braid and change The road to Mowich is unpaved after the frst three A backcountry camping permit channels as glacial sediment deposits shape its miles and may be rough. Mowich is reached via is required for the Ipsut Creek path. state SR 165. Campground at Carbon River. Carbon River Entrance Restrooms, picnic Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout (Moderate, 5.6 Campground information is tables, and an interpretive trail are available. Stretch available on page 2. miles, 3 hours round-trip) The historic fre lookout your legs on the short 0.3 mile interpretive trail and ofers spectacular panoramic views of Mount discover a unique inland rainforest among Sitka Rainier and surrounding areas. Follow the Mowich spruce, Douglas-fr, western hemlock, and western Lake shore to Ipsut Pass for views of Carbon River red cedar. Note that the bridge is out so this is not Valley, Eunice Lake, and the fnal ascent up Tolmie currently a loop trail. Peak. The trail begins at the last bend in the road on the Mowich Lake Road, 5.5 miles from the park Carbon River Trail This former road is now a boundary. Please stay on the main trail near Eunice trail due to repeated fooding. Hike or bike the trail Lake to protect the fragile environment. through this rainforest environment as the forest reveals views of the Carbon River and surrounding Spray Park Trail (Moderate, 6 miles, 4 hours mountains. From the parking lot the trail gains round-trip) Beautiful subalpine meadows with approximately 600 feet in elevation along its 5 mile views of Mount Rainier are some of the rewards length; some sections are rough and rocky. Bicycles along this trail. The trail begins on the west side of are not permitted on any other trails in the area the Mowich Lake Campground. Take the 0.25 mile or in any of-trail areas. Bicyclists are subject to spur to Spray Falls, a 300 foot cascading waterfall. the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel safely, and 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 2020 Southwest: Visit Historic Longmire Deep in the valley of the Nisqually River, the village Rampart Ridge (Strenuous, 4.6 miles, 2.5 of Longmire preserves the history of the park’s hours round-trip) The Rampart Ridge Trail frst settlement and headquarters. The Longmire branches of from the west side of the Trail of the Museum is the starting point for the self-guided Shadows, climbs steeply to the ridge-top, then walking tour of the Longmire Historic District, circles back to Longmire by way of the Wonderland where you can get a taste of early National Park Trail. The lower portions of this trail climb through Service rustic architecture. Follow the Trail of the stands of ancient trees of various ages. Some Shadows to learn about the park’s frst homestead Douglas-frs on the east side of the loop are around and resort, next to Longmire Meadow’s mineral 1,000 years old. springs. Between Longmire and Nisqually Entrance, walk the Twin Firs Trail to view lowland Eagle Peak (Strenuous, 7.2 miles, 5 hours old-growth forest; picnic at Kautz Creek to view round-trip) Eagle Peak ofers panoramic views of the aftermath of the 1947 mudfow; or drive to the Nisqually Valley and Mount Rainier. The lower Westside Road to see the dramatic results of portions of the trail climb steeply through stands fooding and rockfall. For great views of lava layers, of ancient Douglas-fr and younger mountain glaciers, and deep glacial canyons, stop at the hemlock trees. viewpoints along Ricksecker Point Road, between Longmire and Paradise. Carter Falls (Moderate, 2.2 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Stroll along the Paradise River from Longmire Services Bicycle or Hike Westside Road A popular Cougar Rock Campground to Carter Falls. Forest mountain bike route, this gravel road is 13 miles ages vary from very young to very old, with some and Facilities one-way with an elevation gain of approximately stands less than a century old and some more than 1,120 feet. Bicycles are not permitted on any 700 years old. Facilities may be closed, or have park trails, or in any of-trail areas. Bicyclists are limited hours or services. Check subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel Christine Falls A viewpoint just of the locally or at nps.gov/mora for safely, and always wear a helmet. road gives you a beautiful view of Christine Falls facility status. beneath the stone arch of the road bridge. Please Twin Firs (Moderate, 0.6 miles, 30 minutes pull completely of the road to park in a designated round-trip) Look for the Twin Firs trail on the pullout. Walking on the road to view the waterfall Longmire Museum north side of the road one mile east of Kautz Creek can be hazardous. Outdoor Information Station or two miles west of Longmire. This short loop trail climbs through some of the best examples of the Comet Falls and Van Trump Park Restrooms immense Douglas-frs that line much of the road (Strenuous, 3.6 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip to Located between the Museum between the Nisqually Entrance and Longmire. Comet Falls) Look for a diversity of wildfowers and historic gas station. in the forest and rocky canyon environments Picnic Picnic tables and restrooms can be found along this rugged trail, or climb another steep mile Picnic Area at Kautz Creek, Longmire, and three miles up the beyond the falls to a beautiful subalpine meadow. Located next to the gift shop. road at Cougar Rock Picnic Area. Narada Falls A short but moderately steep walk Wilderness Information Trail of the Shadows (Easy, 0.7 miles, 30 takes you to a breathtaking view of Narada Falls, on minutes round-trip) Across the road from the the Paradise River. On a sunny day, you can often Center Longmire Museum and National Park Inn, this see a rainbow refracted in the cool spray of the Obtain permits online prior to loop trail circles mineral springs, a beaver pond, a falls. arrival in the park. historic cabin, and massive Douglas-fr and western red cedar trees. This easy trail takes you through National Park Inn the forested edge of a meadow flled with mineral Grab and Go food, Gift Shop, springs. Perfect for families and nature lovers. Lodging Across the road, visit the outdoor information station at the Longmire Museum and ask for Junior Ranger Activity Books, or pick up a to go lunch at the National Park Inn.

Help Shape the Future of the Carbon River Corridor Pierce County is working with property owners and recreationists to explore the future of recreation in the Carbon River Corridor (from Wilkeson to the park boundary) to develop a Cooperative Action Plan. We need your help! To learn more or become involved visit https://www.piercecountywa. gov/6801/Carbon-River-Corridor- Cooperative-Action

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

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 | 5 South: Explore Paradise

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. Plan to visit mid-week, or early and subalpine frs to a view of the Nisqually or late in the day, to avoid crowds and trafc. Glacier. Facilities may be closed, or have Enjoy the meadows, take in a view of the limited hours or services. Check 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 Restrooms, Outdoor for skilled climbers attempting to reach the open for hoary marmots; they often sunbathe on Information Station, Water mountain’s summit. Photographers appreciate the rocks above the creek. the high-country scenery at Inspiration Point Fountain and Refection Lakes. Hikers looking for Alta Vista via the Alta Vista & Skyline less-crowded trails might try the Lakes Trail, Trails (Moderate, 1.75 miles, 1.25 hours round- Information Boards Mazama Ridge, and Snow Lake Trail, located trip) This short hike climbs to the top of Alta Located outdoors the visitor just east of Paradise. Consider Nisqually Vista Peak for outstanding views of Mount Rainier, center to assist with planning or Myrtle Falls for young hikers, or Alta Vista the Tatoosh Range, and, in the distance, Mount your day at Paradise. or Glacier Vista for the more ambitious. Take Adams. Watch for marmots as you pass through the lots of water and sunscreen! colorful meadows. Plaza Restrooms Located off the upper parking Picnic Enjoy your picnic at the main picnic area Skyline Trail (Strenuous, 5.5 miles, 4.5 hours lot, adjacent to the main plaza. 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 Picnic Area Vista, Panorama Point, Pebble Creek, and Sluiskin Located below and across the Information Boards Stop at one of the and Myrtle Falls. The elevation ranges from 5,400 road from the lower parking information boards set up around Paradise for trip to 7,000 feet, with wet and dry, exposed and planning information and maps. lot. sheltered habitats. Shorter sections of the trail can be done, too. Outdoor Information Station To pick Paradise Wilderness up a brochure or talk to a ranger look for the Great Mountain Views Mount Rainier can Information Center (Guide information station set up outside the visitor be seen from many locations at Paradise. You may House) center. need to move a short distance or wait for some Obtain permits online prior to clouds to move, but the parking lots, plazas, and arrival in the park. Deadhorse Creek (Moderate, 2.5 miles, 1.75 trails all ofer good views of the mountain when hours round-trip) The fowers in this sheltered skies are clear. There is no one best spot to see the canyon bloom later but often more luxuriantly than mountain, but we recommend the Nisqually Vista anywhere else. Loop back on the Skyline Trail, or Trail or the Alta Vista via the Alta Vista and Skyline continue on to Glacier Vista. Trails.

Tatoosh Range and Autumn Sunset JD Hascup photo

6 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 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 opened in 1917, is one of the oldest Falls View Sluiskin Falls northwest of Myrtle Falls inns in the National Park system. The natural log from Skyline trail just past Myrtle Falls. architecture and handmade furniture makes this building a special visit. Former President Harry For online Paradise Paradise to Ruby Falls and Narada Falls Truman played at the piano in 1945. information and downloads 2.2 miles round-trip. 800’ elevation gain. Average hiking time: 1.5 hours. From the southeast corner Historic Paradise Ranger Station was built including the Paradise area of the upper parking lot, take the Lakes Trail down. in 1921. It is the small building at the top of the trail snow-cover map scan the Follow signs for Narada Falls. Enjoy the cascading parking area. It is not open to the public and is now QR code or go to Ruby Falls before reaching the Narada Falls used for emergency service employees. https://www.nps.gov/mora/ parking area and viewpoint. Return the same route. planyourvisit/paradise-basic- Guide House was built in 1920. For many years info.htm 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 and 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 great views of Mount Lakes. Consider hiking this trail to subalpine lakes. This trail is east of This trail starts across the road from Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. Paradise from Refection Lakes. Refection Lakes. Refection Lakes.

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 | 7 Southeast: Stevens Canyon and Ohanapecosh Ohanapecosh, in the park’s southeast corner, lies Ohanapecosh Spend the night among the big deep in the realm of the old-growth forest. From trees in the Ohanapecosh Campground or hike the visitor center and campground, trails follow the one of the many trails through old-growth forest. Ohanapecosh River past hot springs and shaded The most family-friendly campground in the park streams to the roaring cascade of Silver Falls. Walk features big trees, creeks, and the Ohanapecosh the trail to the Grove of the Patriarchs, just past River. Take a short stroll through the Ohanapecosh the Stevens Canyon Entrance, to view ancient Hot Springs, or hike a 2.5 mile loop along the river trees—some over 1,000 years old. Strong hikers will to Silver Falls. enjoy the incredible view from the Shriner Peak fre lookout, east of State Route 123, and the string Silver Falls Trail (Moderate, 3 miles, 2 hours of waterfalls along the East Side Trail. On Stevens round-trip) This loop trail winds among 500 year Canyon Road between Ohanapecosh and Paradise, old trees along both sides of the 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 Cowlitz River 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 old 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 loops. lot. A nearby picnic area is a great place to have lunch. Trail work is currently underway in this area, Picnic Area but access to the overlook and footbridge will be Located across from the visitor maintained. center. Grove of the Patriarchs (Easy, 1.3 miles, Campground 1 hour round-trip) At the east end of the Stevens The Ohanapecosh Campground Canyon Road is one of the most accessible stands is located in the southwest of ancient trees in the park. A short self-guided nature trail and suspension bridge take you to corner of the park on SR123. a boardwalk loop through thousand year old Campground information is Douglas-fr and western red cedar trees, protected available on page 2. from forest fres on an island in the Ohanapecosh River. Restrooms are located by the parking lot.

Silver Falls Eastside Trail Giants NPS photo NPS photo 8 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 Northeast: Experience Sunrise and White River

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, Emmons Glacier, and Mount Rainier. River Services and the Emmons Glacier, the largest American glacier Facilities outside of Alaska. 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 Mount Fremont (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 Obtain permits online prior to Chinook Pass provides a picnic area next to the northeast side of the park. The trail passes arrival in the park. lake and its lush meadows. through subalpine meadows to rocky slopes with low-growing plants adapted to the harsh alpine Restrooms Picnic Enjoy lunch with a view at picnic areas environment. Located at White River Entrance located at Sunrise, White River Campground, and Area, White River Campground Tipsoo Lake. Sourdough Ridge Trail to Dege Peak Picnic Area, Sunrise, and Tipsoo (Moderate, 4.2 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip) Owyhigh Lakes Trail (Moderate, 7 miles, Experience ridgeline hiking along the Sourdough White River Picnic Area 3.5 hours round-trip) This hike ofers solitude Mountains with spectacular views of the Sunrise Located in the campground. amongst old-growth forests to subalpine meadows area, Mount Rainier, glaciers, subalpine meadows, and lakes. From the White River Road, climb wildlife, and the Cascade Mountain range. steadily up the side of Tamanos Mountain through Sunrise Visitor Center a 700 year old forest to Owyhigh Lakes. First Burroughs Mountain Trail Outdoor Information Station (Strenuous, 4.8 miles, 3 hours round-trip) White River Patrol Cabin Take a stroll Ascending high onto First Burroughs Mountain, Sunrise Picnic Area back in time and discover the important role these this trail leads into alpine, tundra-like environment Located north of the visitor center. cabins played in protecting the park. Located in the with unobscured views of Mount Rainier. White River Campground. Following the top of this old lava fow, you feel as if Sunrise Day Lodge you could almost touch the mountain. Grab and Go Food, Gift Shop Glacier Basin Trail (Moderate, 6.5 miles, 6 hours round-trip) Following in the footsteps of Tipsoo Lake and Naches Peak (Moderate, Camping climbers, this trail leads to subalpine meadows, 3.5 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Wildfowers grow The White River Campground surrounded by mountains, and a backcountry thick around this beautiful subalpine lake. Take a is located at the intersection of camp. short stroll around the lake, or branch of on the White River Road and Sunrise longer and more diverse Naches Peak Loop, which Road. Campground information Emmons Moraine Trail (Easy, 3 miles, features diferent fowers on the wetter west side 3 hours round-trip) Turn of on the spur trail from and drier east side of the peak. This trail is located is available on page 2. the Glacier Basin Trail to view the massive Emmons east of White River near Chinook Pass on SR 410. Glacier, the largest by area in the lower 48 states, with Mount Rainier towering above. The frst part of this trail ofers cascading waterfalls and cool forests.

Sunrise Hiking, gift shop, grab and go food, and Sunrise Geology Rocks! restrooms are available. Numerous trails, of various lengths and degrees of difculty, begin from the Download the free parking lot and wander through meadows flled Sunrise Geology Audio Tour with wildfowers during the peak bloom. to explore the area with USGS Geologists.

https://go.usa.gov/xwXt2

Emergency Cellular data is normally available Dial 911 from any phone at White River Entrance. located inside the park

Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 | 9 COVID Trail Etiquette PASSING ON TRAIL Adapted from Washington Trails Association

1 GIVE OTHER HIKERS A WIDE 3 PASS WITH AS MUCH SPACE 4 COVER YOUR MOUTH AND BERTH BETWEEN EACH GROUP AS TURN YOUR HEAD AWAY AS POSSIBLE YOU PASS

2 LET THEM KNOW YOU’D Try to stay on trails or step on rocks or Use of masks while passing is LIKE TO PASS surfaces to avoid trampling delicate recommended. meadow plants. If you are coming up from behind them, a polite: “Coming up on your 5 ACKNOWLEDGE THEM right/left.” works well. Trail etiquette states the person going uphill has right Say a quick “thank you!” once you’ve of way. passed.

10 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2020 Know Before You Go Hazards of the Season A beautiful day on the mountain can turn into they can notify the park if you fail to return. dangerous whiteout conditions in a matter of • If visibility is poor, do not travel at all. minutes. Knowing what to do and making the right • Plan your route ahead of time, have a backup decision can be the diference between life and death. plan, and never travel alone.

Winter snowpack may linger late into summer Snow Avalanches Show Some Love for on the mountain with snow potentially covering The greatest danger is an avalanche that you Your National Parks portions of trails into August. However, keep in trigger by skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or climbing. Be prepared for travel in avalanche mind that snow is not the only issue when it comes Washington’s National Park Fund (WNPF) terrain. Carry a transceiver, probe, and shovel and to safe backcountry travel. provides a clear pathway for people who love know how to use them. Determine if the location Mount Rainier National Park to give back to this you are traveling is avalanche prone. If in doubt, Route-fnding Challenges special place. Trails may be snow-free at lower elevations ask questions or don’t go. Unstable snow may slide at any time, not just in winter! Even small but anticipate and prepare for snow at higher WNPF is the only partner providing philanthropic avalanches can be deadly. elevations. Conditions change rapidly during the support exclusively to Mount Rainier, North day and footprints in the snow quickly disappear. Mountain Weather Changes Rapidly Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. Support This has left many day hikers disoriented upon helps to fund priority projects in four core areas: A pleasant outing can quickly transform into a their return trip, expecting to simply follow their • advancing science and research survival ordeal. Proper gear (adequate boots, ice own tracks back to the snow-free trail. This results • improving visitors’ experiences axe, the ten essentials, etc.) is a must. Navigation in in many lost individuals, injuries, and fatalities. • expanding volunteerism and stewardship spring storms can be extremely difcult. If you’re When route-fnding, note important landmarks. If • providing for youth and family programs ascending and clouds or fog start rolling in, turn the trail becomes difcult to follow, stop and fnd where you are on the map before continuing. around and head back to the trailhead. If that’s not possible, stop, dig in, and wait for better weather. Be Prepared If at any point you feel uncomfortable or Cross Streams Safely unprepared, turn around. If you plan on retracing Many hikers underestimate the power of moving your route back to the trailhead consider using water and some consider their former successful stream crossings as a ticket to the other side. This wands on snow-covered trails. Always carry a good The Fund provides support for over 2,000 may not be true. Use these pointers in making wise map and compass, and actively use them. For best volunteers here at Mount Rainier National Park decisions when crossing streams. coverage beneath a forest canopy supplement your whose eforts are valued at $1.8 million! Whether map and compass with an external-antenna GPS. you purchase a Washington National Parks license • Early morning when river levels are generally plate for your vehicle, support one of WNPF’s at their lowest is the best time to cross. Consider the steep snow slopes, melt holes, fundraising climbs, include the Fund in your estate • Look for an area with a smooth bottom and thinning snow bridges, and other early season plans, or give monthly, it all adds up and has a major slow moving water below knee height. hazards that you may encounter, and be honest impact on this beloved place. with yourself in assessing your skills and • Before crossing, scout downstream for log jams, waterfalls, and other hazards that could experience. For more information please go to the Fund’s trap you. Locate a point where you can exit if website wnpf.org or email them at [email protected]. Plan Ahead you fall in. • Protect yourself by wearing appropriate • Use a sturdy stick to maintain two points of outdoor clothing including footwear. contact with the ground at all times. • Be prepared for rapidly changing weather. • Unfasten the belt of your pack so you can • Carry the ten essentials even on a short easily discard it if necessary. KEEP WILDLIFE WILD sightseeing hike. • Staring down at moving water can make you • Always tell someone of your travel plans so dizzy. Look forward as much as possible. Mount Rainier provides habitat for many species BEFORE STEPPING OFF THE TRAIL... of animals. When you visit the park, ... consider this: each step into a meadow crushes you are visiting an average of 17 plants! their home. The choices you make have a direct effect When exploring Mount Rainier’s fragile meadows, on the wild animals that live here. hike only on maintained trails or thick patches of snow. 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. Classic Backcountry Practices • Wildlife will be drawn to areas with high vehicle traffc, causing CARRY THE 10 ESSENTIALS LEAVE NO TRACE animals to get struck by cars. and know how to use them! • Many animals have specialized • Plan ahead & be prepared diets and the wrong foods can 1. Map and compass • Travel & camp on durable negatively affect their health. 2. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat surfaces 3. Extra clothing (warm!) and rain gear • Dispose of waste properly Help keep park wildlife wild 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 • 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 2020 | 11 Keep Yourself and Others Healthy

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

COVID-19 Safety Alert

The National Park Service encourages you to follow CDC guidance to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If you feel sick, please visit another day.

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

Wear a face covering when social distancing cannot be maintained.

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 2020