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28 Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking in 2024

Travel Washington Boondocking, Boondocking, National Park Boondocking / By John - Laurel Rodgers / 32 minutes of reading

Boondockers welcome for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking. Information provided on 28 dispersed camping sites. Save money & get a national park pass.

Table of Contents

What to Expect When You Visit Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a unique and beautiful destination. This fantastic park is considered one of the unique and beautiful places in Washington State and the world. This beautiful park is the 5th oldest National park in the United States. What makes this park unique and renowned is its glacier-capped volcano at its center. Additionally, Mount Rainier National Park rises 14,410 feet above sea level. There are some fantastic and gorgeous attractions and destinations inside Mount Rainier National Park that visiting and seeing will make your trip memorable. Here are the reasons why you should never miss visiting Mount Rainier National Park during your trip to Washington.

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Wildflowers: There are more than 100 flower species that grow and bloom in Mount Rainier National Park. These flowers provide beautiful and unique scenery in the Park. Some of the flower species in this park include avalanche lilies, western spring beauties, pink mountain heather, showy sedge, and yellow monkeyflower. These flowers are some of the natural things that make this park spectacular and colorful.

Alpine Lakes: There are multiple lovely alpine lakes in Mount Rainier National Park. The lakes have crystal clear water and gorgeous sceneries. These alpine lakes are great places to take photos and relax on a warm day.

Glaciers: Due to climatic changes, the number of glaciers is reducing at a high-speed rate. There are few parks and places in the world with glaciers, and Mount Rainier National Park is one. During your visit to Washington, you should visit Mount Rainier National Park to have spectacular views of these fantastic glaciers.

Waterfalls: Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple waterfalls that you will get a chance to see during your visit. Some of the waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park are Myrtle Falls, Comet Falls, Narada Falls, and Christine Falls.

Experience Paradise: Paradise is an attraction located along the southern face of Mount Rainier at an altitude of 5,400 feet. Visiting Paradise during your trip to Mount Rainier National Park will provide you with stunning views of the surrounding areas. Besides, there are several trails around Paradise for hiking.

Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking: Mount Rainier National Park has multiple excellent trails that you can use to hike when there. The trails in this park can also be used for cross-country skiing and sledding in winter. Additionally, there are several spots in Mount Rainier National Park that you can pitch your tent for an incredible outdoor expedition.

Photography: Mount Rainier National Park has some of the unique and stunning sceneries perfect for taking photos. There are more than 300 crystal clear subalpine lakes with beautiful sceneries that you can visit to catch a dramatic reflection on a calm day. Additionally, there are beautiful wildflowers that grow in Mount Rainier National Park. When the flowers bloom, especially in spring, you can visit to take photos.

Scenic Drive: There are several roads in Mount Rainier National Park that you can drive while having spectacular views of the attractions along the road. Some of the roads in Mount Rainier National Park are Paradise Road, Stevens Canyon Road and 123, Sunrise Road, and Mowich Lake Road.

Animals: Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple species of wildlife that you will be able to see. There are more than 65 mammal species, 14 amphibians, five reptile species, over 182 species of birds, and more than 14 species of native fish that you will see during your visit.

History of Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park’s creation began a very long time ago. In 1792, when Captain George Vancouver observed this mountain while surveying, he decided to name it after his friend Rear Admiral Peter Rainier. After the mountain started to form due to a volcanic eruption more than half a million years ago. In 1893, the Pacific Forest Reserve was created, and Mount Rainier was included. In 1897, the park was enlarged and renamed Mount Rainier Forest Reserve. In March 1899, Congress passed a bill authorizing Mount Rainier National Park, and President William McKinley signed the passed bill making this National park the 5th National park in the United States.

28 Locations in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Areas

1. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Mt Rainier National Forest Road

Address
Ashford, Washington
GPS: 46.734734, -121.906716
Elevation: 2064′

Management: Forest Service

Mt Rainier national forest road is open spring-fall. You may stay 14 days at Mt Rainier national forest road.

Best Review:

Amazing site! Beautiful mossy green scenery with easy access pullouts. We found our spot at around 5pm on a Tuesday and saw plenty of sites available. River for water access although we didn’t use it. Felt very safe and had Verizon service. About an hour from Mt. Rainier which is where we spent the days. Totally worth the drive for the beautiful free site.

2. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Carbon River

Address
NFD 7810 Rd
Buckley, Washington
GPS: 46.999821, -121.916245
Elevation: 1828′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. The maximum RV length at Carbon River is 30′. Located in the Snoqualmie National Forest on a ridge over looking the Carbon River and Mount Rainier National Park.

Best Review:

Once you cross the bridge, the road turns to dirt and there are HUGE potholes. I wouldn’t bring a big rig out there. Anyway, I was looking to rent camp, but the site is now full of shotgun shells and two shot up rusted out vehicles. A small camper or pickup camper could stay here, but I would only crash here for one night. Like the prior poster said, there are much prettier, better dispersed camping site along the river before you cross the bridge and get to this location.

3. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Forest Route 73

Address
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.008844, -121.617311
Elevation: 2905′

Management: Forest Service

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. There are plenty of spots all along route 73. We took a spot right by a nice creek

Best Review:

There are lots of potholes on the road so be careful driving. The campsites are very nice and in a gorgeous spot surrounded by thick forest but unfortunately littered with trash. I stayed at two different sites in the area on two consecutive nights and both had trash all over them, which I attempted to clean up the best I could. This is a great area to stay if you plan on visiting Mt. Mount Rainier National Park as it is right nearby.

4. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Summit Creek (Hike-In)

ddress
National Forest Development Road 4510
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.710398, -121.536702
Elevation: 2352′

Management: Forest Service

Summit Creek (Hike-In) is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Summit Creek (Hike-In).

Best Review:

The forest service has removed all facilities and closed the road. Hike-In. Enjoy what they’ve left behind! Summit Creek Campground is a small, rustic site located on a small flat between Summit Creek and Forest Road 4510 in a mid-elevation stand of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar.

5. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Skate Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 52
Packwood, Washington
GPS: 46.63837, -121.71165
Elevation: 1568′

Management: State Park

This is for free dispersed camping. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Perfect place for all recreational fun. All along the road is pull offs with nice campsites with a fire pit in 80% of them. Super beautiful view, I stayed by the river.

Best Review:

Skate Creek Road is pretty busy so I headed up NF 5270 and there were plenty of spots up there too. These are all basically spots right on the side of the road. Road is in good shape. A big rig would find a spot on Skate Creek but not 5270.

6. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 15 Miles: – Packwood WA NF

Address
Packwood, Washington
GPS: 46.63448, -121.679917
Elevation: 1430′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. National forest camping. This dispersed camping spot is at the end of a road that that appears to have been a rock quarry at one time and is still used as a shotgun range at times.

Best Review:

Large flat areas for tent camping and RVs. Sadly, locals leave a bit if trash around, mostly spent shotgun shells and aluminum cans. Just a few minutes drive off Hwy 12 near Packwood, WA. Not far off the busy forest service road 52/Skate Creek Rd. One lane gravel road but easily navigated in my van. Large open area with many dispersed camping spots to park or set up a tent. Quiet and peaceful. No toilets or other facilities that we found along the forest road.

7. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Fire Service Roads Outside Greenwater

Address
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.067265, -121.594166
Elevation: 2264′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 1 mile miles from a paved road. There are 30 or more dispersed camping sites at this location. You may stay 14 days at fire service roads outside Greenwater.

Amenities:

Fire Ring

Best Review:

Looking for the camp spot that is close to a swimming area. I have been camping on 73 a few times with my older kids and the river we camped next to is not kid friendly. Anyone know of the best spots on which road is close to or on a small river or creek that little kids can enjoy the water?

8. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Pyramid Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 110
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.113467, -121.457646
Elevation: 2700′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

9. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Bevin Lake Rest Area

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.55278, -121.73637
Elevation: 988′

Management: DOT Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Bevin Lake Rest Area is open year round. The maximum RV length at Bevin Lake Rest Area is unlimited. You may stay 8 hours at Bevin Lake Rest Area.

Best Review:

Off Rt. 12, about 15 miles outside of Randle. Not much in the area. Signs say, “please limit your stay to 8 hours” and there is plenty of RV parking for any size rig. Rt 12 did not have a lot of truck traffic, so it was pretty quiet. Best of all, it was pretty flat, which can be rare at rest areas. Nice shaded picnic area with tables. It was my favorite rest ever.

10. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Bumping River Road (NF-1800)

Address
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.836358, -121.304171
Elevation: 3570′

Management: Forest Service

There’s numerous free national forest campsites along Bumping River Road (NF-1800). Some are on the way down to Bumping lake, and some are just past (south) of the lake. Most of them are right off the road, but the ones past Bumping Lake are off a gravel road.

Best Review:

A great place to camp but starting to get overcrowded. Beautiful river and local scenery. The lake and its surroundings is just as beautiful. NOTE: As of 2020, the U.S. Forest Service is threatening to shut down the free camping at sites along the river. Campers have been leaving garbage, toilet paper and feces in the sites. (They don’t even bother digging a hole.) The messes are left near the river, too. There’s fishing in the river and in the lake.

11. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Pyramid Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 110
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.113467, -121.457646
Elevation: 2700′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed camping site. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

12. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Chambers Lake

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.465948, -121.531648
Elevation: 4522′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 17 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

Best Review:

Decommissioned national forest campground on Chambers Lake. Located near Snowgrass and Berry Patch trailheads, 17 miles from Hwy 12 just east of Randle, WA. Trailheads are very popular access points for the Goat Rocks Wilderness. Campground has approx. 12 sites, with a couple that can accommodate larger RVs (if you’re willing to drive 17 miles down a washboard dirt road).

Stayed here in early August. Were the only people when we arrived mid-afternoon. A couple other sites were occupied overnight. GREAT spot, can’t believe the forest service decommissioned this campground. Vault toilet was clean. Lake is small. Saw a couple people fish briefly and then leave. Some of the sites had established campfire rings, but there was a burn ban in place when we stayed.

13. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 29 Miles: – Russell Ridge TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 1382
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.664751, -121.205161
Elevation: 4997′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. First come – first served. No reservations accepted.

Best Review:

None

14. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Lost Meadow

Address
National Forest Development Road 19
Naches, Washington
GPS: 47.063022, -121.218978
Elevation: 3064′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

15. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Cash Prairie TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 199
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.715459, -121.165477
Elevation: 6319′

Management: Forest Service

From Naches, WA follow Highway 12 W for 21.6 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 1500. Continue on Road 1500 for about 9 miles. Turn left onto spur Road 199 and go 2.1 miles to end of road to Cash Prairie Trailhead for dispersed camping sites.

Activities:

Hiking
Horse Trails

Best Review:

None

16. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Greenhorn Creek

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.433576, -121.940737

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. Greenhorn creek is open Year round if you can get up there in winter. There are 1-5 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 2 weeks at Greenhorn Creek. 3 spots along the Greenhorn Creek that are shaded and hearing the creek 24/7 is a bonus.

Best Review:

All the Greenhorn Creek Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking spots could fit a 24 foot RV but tents, pop up trailers, Class B’s would fit fine. Bigger RV-s might have trouble getting into two of the spots. There is a larger spot that would make good use of a group camping and a Class A might get into that spot also. Road is rough coming from Forest Rd 25, but the approach is much better coming from Forest Rd 23 / tower rock.
46.433576, -121.940737

17. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Willow Tree TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 1362
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.673119, -121.167519
Elevation: 3829′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

18. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 31 Miles: – Iron Creek Dispersed Campsite

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.427984, -121.98043
Elevation: 1189′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. Iron Creek Dispersed Camping site is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 7 days at Iron Creek Dispersed Campsite.

Best Review:

This area is just beyond the pay-for Iron Creek campsite. Go down past the official campsite on US Forest Service road towards Mt. St. Helens. Approximately 1/4 mile past the pay campsite there is the Iron Creek Picnic area on the left. Turn down that road and go about a 1/2 mile (~100 yds) past the picnic area. You’ll come to a narrow bridge. The turn off for the site is immediately to the left before the tiny bridge. It’s a short yet steep dip down into the site so I wouldn’t recommend any small cars or RVs/pull- campers. There are 3 stone fire rings and very decently sized tent sites. Very minimal traffic and 6 miles away from Randle/ 25 mi from Mt. St. Helens. No services. Pack it out. Super awesome spot next to a creek. Overall highly recommended.

19. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Little Naches

Address
FS19 (Little Naches Rd.)
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.996178, -121.109421
Elevation: 2628′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. Little Naches is open Year round depending on snow. The maximum RV length at Little Naches is None.

Best Review:

Located along FS19 (Little Naches Rd.) west of Naches. This area has two FS campgrounds for fee parking however free dispersed camping sites abound all along FS19 and up the side roads in the area. During summer this is a favorite area for Jeeps, ATVs and motorcycles, however usually during mid week there is very little traffic and the area is quite peaceful.

20. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Boulder Cave Sno-Park

Address
3208-3302 National Forest Development Road 1704
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.951965, -121.079766
Elevation: 2457′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

21. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping

Address
US 12
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.666047, -121.102512
Elevation: 2613′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 1-2 miles miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 days at South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping.

Best Review:

This place is amazing! I spent 4 nights at 2 different spots. The first spot I spent here was about 1/4 mile down the road from the entrance. It was along the river but highway 12 was across the way and the road noise was a little disturbing…though not bad. I decided to move the next day and found a spot that was down a super bumpy and rough road that I would only recommend a van or 4wd, though I did see a couple of people go down in their SUV’s. Super peaceful, but very little cell service and the internet was pretty much a big fat nothing.

22. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Milk Pond Campground

Address
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.9872, -121.063
Elevation: 2979′

Management: Forest Service

There are 1-5 dispersed camping sites at this location. Open, can’t park right next to campground but right close.

Best Review:

None

23. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Rimrock Pullout Hwy 12

Address
Goose Prairie, Washington
GPS: 46.67593, -121.06462
Elevation: 2500′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. The maximum RV length at Rimrock pullout Hwy 12 is 25 feet. Not official campsite, more of a pullout right off Hwy 12.

Best Review:

Intermittent road noise, but it mostly dies off after dark. Not sure about legal status, but partially concealed from road. No “NO OVERNIGHT” signs. Good overnight pit stop before sunset, without the hassle of finding/setting up camp. Have stayed here a few times with no hassle. Best part is it’s RIGHT on rivers edge. Good place to launch kayak for down-river pickup.

24. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Nile/Old Sawmill

Address
National Forest Development Road 1611
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.851848, -121.011631
Elevation: 2415′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

None

25. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Nile Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 1611
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.851389, -121.00991
Elevation: 2398′

Management: State Park

Free Dispersed camping.. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Nice place to stay for a day or 2. Many spots throughout 410 North into the forest. Close but not too close to a gas station and food joint. Was perfect for my trip from Boise to Seattle. I took 410 North through the forest to Seattle and this is a beautiful drive!

26. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Orr Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 5603
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.350466, -121.597704
Elevation: 2913′

Management: State Park

Free Dispersed camping.. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Good spot, great sun vault toilet. Elk pass through from time to time, have even seen them under my awning!

27. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Quartz Mt

Address
National Forest Development Road 3100
Cle Elum, Washington
GPS: 47.076652, -121.079621
Elevation: 6099′

Management: Forest Service

The maximum RV length at Quartz Mt is 22 feet. This free dispersed camping site is located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Cle Elum Ranger District.

Best Review:

28. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Pull-out on 12

Address
Silver Creek, Washington
GPS: 46.536193, -122.413709
Elevation: 869′

Management: DOT Rest Area

You may stay 8 hours at Pull-out on 12. A pull out with a sign for no camping and no bonfires that also says limit stay to 8 hours.

Best Review:

A good place to just park and sleep in the car/camper/van for a quick stop. No tents. Lots of space to park. State patrol keeps tabs on 8hr rule, portable toilets and fishing access.

Best Family Friendly Hiking Trails at Mount Rainier National Park

Want to find the best trails in Mount Rainier National Park for an adventurous hike or a family trip? There are 151 great hiking trails, biking trails, running trails and more.Explore one of 24 easy hiking trails in Mount Rainier National Park that are great for the whole family. Looking for a more strenuous hike? We’ve got you covered, with trails ranging from 22 to 25,436 feet in elevation gain. Whatever you have planned for the day, you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to Mount Rainier National Park.

1. Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail – Boondockers Choices

Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail is a 0.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL CLOSURE: This area is subject to seasonal closure due to weather conditions.

Myrtle Falls can be accessed from the Paradise parking area via the Skyline Trail or Golden Gate Trail. This is an asphalt paved trail with a short uphill then stairs to the viewpoint of Myrtle Falls.

Accessibility: There are 6 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Paradise Road East at the south end of the trail. All of them are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The trail surface is paved asphalt and smooth. It is typically at least 4 feet wide.

The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the moderately steep (5-8%) grade category and the steepest sections are at about 0.2-0.4 miles when going northeast. Trail goers using wheelchairs/mobility equipment or strollers may need assistance along this entire route due to the consistent sections above a 5% grade (especially if using manual equipment). There is a boardwalk viewing platform that crosses over the top of the Falls. There is a staircase near the Falls.

Length: 0.8 mi
Elevation gain: 150 feet
Route type: Out & back

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Walking, Running, Forest, Paved, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

2. Silver Forest Trail – Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Silver Forest Trail is a 1.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Greenwater, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and nature trips and is best used from July until September. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Sunrise Road, which leads to this trailhead, is subject to seasonal closure.

Length: 1.9 mi
Elevation gain: 200 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Running, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

3. Nisqually Vista Trail – Boondockers Favorite Location

Nisqually Vista Trail is a 1.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure from November to mid-April.

This family-friendly trail features beautiful views of Nisqually Glacier with a short walk to the Jackson Visitor Center. You may encounter snow through June and July. No pets are allowed.

Accessibility: There are 8 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Paradise Valley Road at the southeast end of the trail. All of them are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The upper parking lot has ramp access to the trail. The trail surface is paved asphalt and smooth. It is typically at least 6 feet wide.

The most accessible portion of the trail is the first about 0.2 miles. The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the moderately steep (5-8%) grade category. Trail goers using wheelchairs/mobility equipment or strollers may need assistance along this entire route due to the consistent sections above a 5% grade (especially if using manual equipment). There are snowdrifts in the winter on the trail which may make it impossible to use mobility equipment at these points. According to the park website, this trail is suitable for strollers.

Length: 1.1 mi
Elevation gain: 180 feet
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Walking, Forest, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

4. Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail – Boondockers Choices

Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail is a 1.1 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and camping and is best used from May until September. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL CLOSURE: This area is subject to seasonal closure due to weather conditions.

The Grove of the Patriarchs is a 1.1-mile round-trip, self-guided nature trail through a wonderland of old growth trees and a bustling forest floor! Wander through trails, boardwalks, bridges, and dirt paths while winding through centuries old trees. The Patriarchs, Douglas Firs, and the Big Cedar stunning examples of healthy tree found in this area. Isolated on the island, these giants have been protected from fire, allowing them to grow to enormous size. You have many trees that are more than 25 ft in circumference, at least one approaching 50 ft, and some over 1,000 years old.

In late summer and early fall, there are plenty of mushrooms, with coral tooth fungus, boletes, jellies, and many more in the area. The easy nature trail through 1000 year old huge old growth Cedar, and Douglas fir trees at Mt. Rainier National Park.

The Ohanapecosh River surrounds an island of towering, thousand-year-old Douglas fir and western red cedar trees. Walk the trail to discover the grandeur and peace of this island.

Length: 1.1 mi
Elevation gain: 52 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Camping, Hiking, Forest, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

5. Narada Falls – Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Narada Falls is a 0.3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running and is best used from July until October. Absolutely beautiful waterfall. It’s a short walk downhill from the parking lot, which means it is uphill on the way back. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

Absolutely beautiful waterfall. It’s a short walk downhill from the parking lot, which means it is uphill on the way back. You can view the falls from the upper pullout if you aren’t able to do the trail.

Paradise is one mile northeast of the trailhead. This is the largest waterfall viewable by car in the park at 150 feet. Architecture in the park such as the bridge was designed in the 1900s. For a longer trip, you can connect to the Wonderland Trail to the south.

Length: 0.3 mi
Elevation gain: 72 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Places to See and Things to Do in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a vast attraction that covers approximately 956.6 square kilometers. Inside this 956.6 square kilometer National park, there are multiple places to visit and several things to see and do. Here are the best places and things to do and see in Mount Rainier National Park.

Paradise. Paradise is one of the most beautiful destinations in Mount Rainier National Park. During your visit to Paradise, which is located at an altitude of 5,400 feet, you will be able to have spectacular views of the park and its surrounding areas. Additionally, visiting Paradise during the summer, you will find wildflowers along the slopes and trails that will provide you with gorgeous views and sceneries for taking photos. There are multiple trails around Paradise that you can use to hike while Mount Rainier National Park boondocking.

See Wildlife. Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple animal species that you will see during your visit. During your Mount Rainier National Park boondocking visit, you will be able to come across animals such as mountain goats, elk, and bears. There are various species of reptiles, such as the common Garter Snake, Northwestern Garter Snake, and Rubber Boa, plus many more. Additionally, there are bird species in Mount Rainier National Park that you will be able to see as you enjoy birdwatching. The common bird species found in Mount Rainier National Park are Birds of Prey (Eagles, Hawks, & Owls), Bluebirds, Robins, & Thrushes, Chickadees, Kinglets, & Wrens, Hummingbirds, Larks & Pipits, Grouse and many more. The fish species you can see are Bull Trout, Cutthroat, rainbow trout, Puget sound steelhead trout, pink salmon, chinook salmon, eastern brook trout, kokanee salmon, mountain whitefish, coho salmon, and many more.

Trails. There are several trails in Mount Rainier National Park. You can visit this National park to hike, ski, sled, or do other outdoor activities in the multiple trails. There are spectacular views or surrounding areas that you will be able to views while hiking along the trails in Mount Rainier National Park. Additionally, there are flowers, plants, and animals along the trails that you will enjoy viewing during your visit. Some of Mount Rainier National Park boondocking trails include Sunrise Nature Trail, Frozen Lake Loop Trail, Sunrise Rim Loop Trail, and many more.

Waterfalls. Mount Rainier National Park is home to several waterfalls that you can visit to enjoy the views of the park and even take photos. You can hike while going to the waterfalls. There are gorgeous wildflowers that grow around the waterfalls that you can admire and take pictures of during your visit. Mount Rainier National Park falls include Narada Falls, Silver Falls, Christine Falls, Myrtle Falls, and many more.

Lakes. There are multiple lakes found in Mount Rainier National Park that you can visit for various activities. Some of the lakes in this park include Reflection lakes, Mowich Lake, Tipsoo Lake, Snow Lake, Eunice Lake, Bench Lake, and many more. These lakes are home to various fish species such as Bull Trout, Cutthroat, rainbow trout, Puget sound steelhead trout, pink salmon, chinook salmon, eastern brook trout, kokanee salmon, mountain whitefish, coho salmon, plus many more. Some of the activities in the lakes in Mount Rainier National Park that you can take part in during your visit include fishing, boating, and kayaking, plus many more. Some of the lakes in Mount Rainier National Park have amazing sceneries that you can visit to take pictures of.

Take Scenic Drive. There are several roads inside Mount Rainier National Park that you can drive while having spectacular views. Some of the roads in Mount Rainier National Park that you will enjoy driving on while having stunning views include the 9-mile stretch Paradise Road, Stevens Canyon Road and 123, Sunrise Road, and Mowich Lake Road, plus many more. These roads lead to various destinations within the park, and along the roads, there are unique and stunning attractions that you will be able to see.

How to Get to Mount Rainier National Park

There are four main entrances accessible by vehicle that you can use to enter Mount Rainier National Park. There are multiple major cities located within 200 miles of Mount Rainier National Park. You can use multiple ways to get to Mount Rainier National Park. If you want to use the Southwest Entrance by car, here are the directions:

East Entrance by car From Seattle: (to White River/ Sunrise/ Ohanapecosh) drive South on I-5 to I-405 at Exit 154a. from there drive East on I-405 to SR 167 and then take South to SR410 where you will find White River Entrance. From there you can continue South on SR 410 to SR 123 past Stevens Canyon Road to Ohanapecosh.
From Tacoma: drive east on SR 512 to SR 167 and turn north to SR 410 and then head east while on SR 410 to the White River Entrance and Sunrise.

From Seattle: Drive South on I-5 to SR 512 and exit at 127. From SR 512 drive East to SR 7 and then drive South on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. From here drive East on SR 706 through Ashford where you will find the Nisqually Entrance. From Tacoma: Drive East on SR 512 to Sr 7 and then turn South from SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. Once you are in SR 706, drive East through Ashford where you will find Nisqually Entrance.

From Yakima: in Summer; Drive West on US 12 to SR 123 and then turn North while on SR 123 to the Stevens Canyon Entrance.
In Winter; Drive on US 12 to SR 7in Morton. While still on SR 7, drive North to Elbe. From there drive East on SR 706 through Ashford where the Nisqually Entrance is located.

From Portland: drive North on I-5 to Hwy 12(Exit 68) and then drive East while still on Hwy 12 to SR 7 in Morton and then turn North on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe where you will find the Nisqually Entrance. Direction From Northwest Entrance by Car. This entrance is open year-round and you can access it using SR 165 through Wilkeson to Carbon River. The Carbon River is located 5.5 miles east of Mowich Lake at SR165 in the junction.

East Entrance by car From Seattle: (to White River/ Sunrise/ Ohanapecosh) drive South on I-5 to I-405 at Exit 154a. from there drive East on I-405 to SR 167 and then take South to SR410 where you will find White River Entrance. From there you can continue South on SR 410 to SR 123 past Stevens Canyon Road to Ohanapecosh.
From Tacoma: drive east on SR 512 to SR 167 and turn north to SR 410 and then head east while on SR 410 to the White River Entrance and Sunrise.

From Yakima: drive west on Hwy 12 to SR 410 and the turn west along SR410 over Chinook and Cayuse Passes to the White River Entrance.
To Ohanapecosh: drive west on US 12 to SR 123 and then turn right while on SR 123 and travel north into Mount Rainier National Park. There are signs that will lead you to Ohanapecosh.

From Portland: drive north on I-5 to SR 512 and then turn east to SR 167 in exit 135 and again drive east to SR 410. While on SR 410 drive east again to Mount Rainier National Park and White River and Sunrise area. to Ohanapecosh; drive north on I-5 to US 12 and take Exit 68 to SR 123 and drive north. Continue travelling north on SR 123 to Mount Rainier National Park and Ohanapecosh area.

Paid Accommodations and Places to Eat Near Mount Rainier National Park

During your visit to Mount Rainier National Park, here are some of the accommodations and dining that you can relax, sleep and dine in;

• Nisqually Lodge
• Crest Trail Lodge
• Seasons Motel
• Blackberry Bunkhouse
• Paradise Inn
• National Park Inn
• Paradise Village Hotel and Restaurant
• Crystal Mountain Resort

What to Pack for Your Visit to Mount Rainier National Park

Here is the gear that you should carry with you while going to visit Mount Rainier, National Park.

Rain jacket. It may rain suddenly, and it depends on which season you are visiting Mount Rainier, National Park. This gear will help protect you From downpours.

Park map. You should download an offline map or carry the map of the park with you to help in direction purposes and prevent you From getting lost.

Sturdy, hard-soled Water shoes. There are a lot of glaciers, and the surfaces along the trails may be slippery. The boots should have traction and be comfortable for easy movement on various surfaces.

Binoculars. You will use this gear in sightseeing and view hard-to-reach attractions.

Water bottles. You will use it to carry water to keep yourself hydrated during your outdoor expeditions.

Bug spray. There may be insects such as mosquitoes, and a bud spray will aid in combatting them.

Headlamp. For easy visibility and to allow you to see at night.

Sunglass and sun hat. You will use them to protect yourself From the sun during the expedition.

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