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Mt. Rainier
Washington
A Sleeping Volcano
Mount Rainier National Park has been attracting visitors from all over the world for decades. This massive ice-capped volcano is visible from great distances with its peak reaching 14,411 feet, the highest in the state of Washington. Although this volcano is sleeping, or dormant, the possibly does exist that it could erupt some day, just as Mount St. Helens did.
Known for its glacial formations, Mount Rainier holds 34 square miles of these icy masses - the largest single-peak glacial system in the contiguous United States. Six of the more than two dozen glaciers originate in the summit ice cap. At lower elevations, forests blanket the mountainside and are home, along with meadows of wildflowers, to deer, mountain goats and bear.
There are several entrances into Mount Rainier National Park that lead to more than 300 miles of trails and 140 miles of roads to be explored and enjoyed. Visitors can hike on self-guided nature trails and listen to free talks by the park's naturalists. Overnight camping is allowed with a permit for those wishing to backpack into the park. Visitors also can enjoy fishing, picnicking and, of course, sightseeing.
For all kinds of information on the history, ecology, geology and other aspects of the park, stop at one of the four visitor centers. Each offers exhibits and information on one or more of these topics. A fee is required to enter the park.
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 Whitefish Mountain Resort
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