Best Activities Near Mount Rainier National Park

Jan 23

There’s plenty to see and do around Mount Rainier National Park, ranging from hiking and paddling to more relaxed activities like hot tubbing and scenic gondolas. Since the mountain is so large, it’s best to plan activities based on which entrance or nearby town you’ll be staying in.

If you want to see multiple areas efficiently, check out our Mount Rainier itinerary, which shows how to connect the park’s highlights into one well-paced trip.

Activities inside Mount Rainier National Park

Ranger-led programs

You’ll find all kinds of ranger-led programs, including guided walks, night sky programs, and evening programs in campground amphitheaters.

Hiking

Hiking is our favorite activity in the park. Mount Rainier has over 250 miles of trails, and every one is stunning. We particularly love trails that feature wildflowers, views of Mount Rainier, and waterfalls but you can see all of our favorites here.

Volunteering

Mount Rainier and local organizations have many volunteer opportunities in and around the park. Volunteer with Washington Trails Association to help maintain trails, with the park to become a Meadow Rover, or one of the many projects the Mount Rainier National Park Associates organizes.

Snow recreation

Snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and the sledding area are available depending on snow fall, typically between late December and through mid-March. If you’re unfamiliar with avalanche terrain, we’d recommend going on a ranger-led snowshoe before trying it on your own.

Activities near Ashford

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

Check out the scenic railroad rides, themed holiday rides, or go for brunch or whiskey tasting. They also have rail cycling, which is a slower-paced bike ride across a historic logging railroad.

Paradise Village

Visit the Paradise Village for an authentic Ukrainian experience, complete with a restaurant, cannibal hot tub, and bee therapy – any of which would be the perfect way to unwind after a hike.

Paddle

Kayak or paddle on Mineral Lake or Alder Lake. You’ll find rentals from First Adventures Outdoors and the Elbe Market (they’ve got the best ice cream too).

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Located in Eatonville, a half hour from Ashford, Northwest Trek is home to 40 native Northwest animals, from bison, moose, cougars, wolves, to owls and newts! We recommend reserving a Keeper Adventure Tour or the Wild Drive Tour to spot animals in the 435 acres of free-roaming area.

Activities near Greenwater

Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain is a great spot to visit year round. They have great ski trails in the winter, and in the summer you can enjoy a scenic gondola ride, a meal at the Summit House, or check out their adventure park!