The park has four entrances (Nisqually, Carbon River, Sunrise, and Stevens Canyon). Since we recommend spending your day in the Paradise and Sunrise corridors, you’ll want to start your day at the Nisqually Entrance.

Nisqually is near the park’s main visitor center, the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center. This impressive visitor center with floor-to-ceiling windows and unobstructed views of Mount Rainier doesn’t open until 10:00 a.m. Still, it’s a nice spot to revisit during the day to refill your water, stop by the snack bar, or ask the Rangers for recommendations (especially if there’s inclement weather).

Tucked high on the southern slopes, the Paradise Corridor lives up to its name. Wildflower-strewn meadows, panoramic alpine vistas, and glacier-fed streams define this subalpine terrain. It’s the perfect place to begin the day.

Paradise is the park's busiest area, especially in the summer and early autumn, when wildflowers and changing trees are at their peak. We recommend starting your day early at sunrise and spending the first half of your day on the Skyline Trail. Then, return to the Jackson Visitor Center midday to refresh and drive to the Sunrise Corridor.

The Skyline Trail is located near the entrance to the Jackson Visitor Center and marked by stone steps inscribed with a John Muir quote. The trailhead splits into numerous alternate routes, so you’ll want to review a map before heading out. If you arrive at daybreak, the visitor center will be closed, so we recommend downloading a map to reference offline as you hike.

This gorgeous hike winds through wildflower meadows and past glacial waterfalls. It can be challenging in parts, but the unparalleled views are worth the effort. If you hike the entire Skyline Loop, expect to hike for at least five hours.

For a shorter hike, follow the trail clockwise for two miles until you reach Panorama Point . The out-and-back hike to Panorama Point has breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and a considerable elevation gain. It generally takes two hours, so pack plenty of water, layers, and snacks.

For the second half of your day, we recommend driving to the Sunrise Corridor. It’s a two-hour drive from Paradise to Sunrise, but it’s a great way to take in the park’s changing landscape.

To reach Sunrise from Paradise, you’ll need to exit the park at Stevens Canyon Gate and reenter at the White River Gate. This may sound tedious, but gates and mountain villages separate all the corridors. The drive along State Route 410 is beautiful and worth it, especially if you stop at points of interest along the way.

Tipsoo Lake is one of our favorite stops. The lake is accessible in the summer and early autumn when it’s bursting with wildflowers and wildlife. If you packed a lunch for the day, it’s the perfect place to picnic.

For many, the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail is considered the most breathtaking hike in the park. This 5.5-mile trail climbs through wildflower meadows and past rugged mountain slopes before ending at the historic Mount Fremont Fire Lookout . This gorgeous viewpoint is perched at nearly 7,200 feet and will give you unmatched views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Range.

If you’re able to time your hike for sunset at the lookout, this hike will be even more incredible. Just be sure to pack a headlamp and wear warm layers for the return hike. (We recommend a red light headlamp so you can view the stars as you go.)

To get to the trailhead, park at the Sunrise Visitor Center. Then, follow the signs to the trailhead, which is located between the visitor center and lodge.

One day at Mount Rainier is just a glimpse into the wonder of the Pacific Northwest. From wildflower-filled meadows to sweeping mountain views, it’s difficult to imagine a more beautiful place. So grab your boots and plan a trip to this iconic park!