GETTING THERE:If you’re coming from Seattle and your destination is Paradise (the park’s most popular area), head for the southwest (Nisqually) park entrance. Take I-5 south to exit 127 and then head east on Wash. 512. Take the Wash. 7 exit and head south toward Elbe. At Elbe, continue east on Wash. 7 At the park entrance, you’ll be handed a comprehensive map that includes all trails and facilities. The park entrance fee is $15 per vehicle.
If you don’t have a car but still want to visit Mount Rainier National Park, book a tour through Tours Northwest (www.toursnorthwest.com; tel. 888/293-1404 or 206/768-1234), which charges $119 for adults and $87 for children ages 3 to 12 for a 10-hour tour starting in Seattle. These tours operate between late April and early November, and spend most of the day in transit, but you get to see the mountain up close and can do a couple of hours of hiking at Paradise.
VISITOR INFORMATION:For park information, contact Mount Rainier National Park, 55210 238th Ave. E., Ashford, WA 98304 (www.nps.gov/mora; tel. 360/569-2211). For general information on the area, contact Visit Rainier (www.visitrainier.com; tel. 877/270-7155).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
