Spring Guide to Mt. Rainier 2023

Ashford County Park

The Ashford County Park has a network of paved, ADA accessible trails meandering around the play structure, through the forest, and into Basecamp Grill and Whitaker’s Ice Cream shop.

 

ADA Mt. Rainier Trail Map at Ashford County Park

Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park

This inspired outdoor art exhibit is a dreamlike experience as you wander through the larger-than-life sculptures made of recycled machine parts and metal pieces.

Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park near Mt. Rainier National Park

Basecamp Grill and Whitaker’s Bunk House

Grab a burger or beer at basecamp grill followed by an ice cream next door at Whitaker’s Bunk House. Watch the climbers train as they prepare to summit Mt. Rainier. If you want to get in on the climbing action, there is a rock climbing boulder for the young and young at heart open to the public.

Rock wall at Basecamp Grill near Mt. Rainier National Park

Copper Creek Restaurant

This restaurant makes the list for every season. Be sure to stop in for breakfast and fresh baked goods.

Copper Creek Restaurant in the forest of Mt. Rainier National Park.

Paradise Village and Café

Stop in for a delectable Ukrainian inspired dessert and a delicious coffee. The café is a great spot to spend a rainy afternoon.

Delicious Baked Goods at Paradaise Village Cafe outside of Mt. Rainier National Park.

Glacier Lake Trail

Head out to Packwood and hike Glacier Lake Trail. 5 miles round trip with 1,000’ ft elevation gain will get you ready for summer hiking. This trail is typically free of snow by May.

Glacier Lake from Glacier Lake Trail near Packwood and Mt. Rainier National Park.

Packwood Lake Trail

One of the most accessible and scenic glacier fed lakes near Mt. Rainier. This is a great spring time trail.

Packwood Lake from Packwood Lake hiking trail near Packwood, WA

Nisqually River Walk

Free of snow and accessible year-round, this short, 1 mile walk will take you along the ever changing and powerful Nisqually River. This path ends inside of Mt. Rainier National Park.

Nisqually River sunset outside of Mt. Rainier National Park Cabins.

Mt. Rainier National Park Cabins

Rent a private mountain cabin to spend the weekend with family and friends. Soak in the hot tub, break out a board game, or watch the deer out of the cabin windows.

www.MtRainierNationalParkCabins.com

Mt. Rainier National Park Cabins in het forest outside of Mt. Rainier National Park

Chase Waterfalls

Spring is the best time of year to visit the numerous waterfalls throughout the park. Narada Falls, Carter Falls, and the upper, mid, and lower falls of the Little Mashel River are at their peak flow rate.

 

Upper Mashel Falls from the Pack Forest Trail near Mt. Rainier National Park