Mount Rainier is a volcano located in Washington state, US. Here are some Mount Rainier facts;
- It’s an active volcano
- 4,392 meters above sea level
- Highest mountain in Washington state
- The most dangerous volcano in the US threatening Seattle and Tacoma
- It’s a Decade Volcano
There are many places to stay around this huge volcano, I chose Kelso, Washington which offers great value hotels. Alternatively, you can hire a car and visit on a day trip from Seattle.
Reflection Lake
Mount Rainier is accessible by the white pass scenic byway which is open summer and fall. From I-5 you take US-12 east to the Jackson visitor center. In the Jackson visitor center you’ll find information about the volcano as well as the history of it. Additionally, you’ll read why it’s the most dangerous volcano in the US and what could potentially happen if there was a serious eruption. The area around the visitor center is known as paradise. Finally, in paradise you’ll find Reflection Lake which is arguably the best place to photograph Mount Rainier.
Louise Lake
For a more in depth description of how to see absolutely everything on the white pass scenic byway I recommend you visit the official site. Moreover, you can print out a PDF of the full route which takes around 4-5 hours. In addition to Louise Lake, there’s a small waterfall called Sunbeam Falls as well as a few hiking trails.
Mount Rainier Webcam
Before driving to the volcano you can check the webcam to see current conditions at the top. You can actually see Mount Rainier from the interstate. For this reason, you should have a good idea whether you can see it or not before you turn off.
How to Travel from Mount Rainier to Olympic National Park
The US gets a bad rap for not having any history but look at this cool gas station in Olympia which is still in use today. From Mount Rainier I headed west towards I-5 then onto Olympia, the capital of Washington state. I stayed in Olympia because it’s on the way to Olympic National Park and there are good value hotels. Moreover, it’s good to learn the capital cities of each American State.
I love going to the US and this looks a really exciting trip to do, and as a keen photographer the volcano is just perfect. Thanks for sharing this James.
So beautiful! The first time I admired the landscape of the West was last year when we made our Roadtrip along the West coast and also Yosemite. Since we love to hike and also spend as much time as possible in the nature this would be an ideal destination for an upcoming roadtrip. 4,392 meters is truly a thing, quite impressive. Nice inspiration… and the Gas station is beautiful!
So cool and that one photo on the top is amazing! It’s nice that they have so much information online to research before you visit including the camera so you know weather conditions. Interesting to know that it is active as that always adds a touch of danger to the adventure. Reflection Lake though is breathtaking.
Volcanoes are always exciting for me and I’d love to know when last this one erupted. The are around it is beautiful too. And the gas station is so quaint.
Seeing an active volcano is on my bucket list. The surroundings of this one are particularly beautiful. I will like to visit here
I love that there is a web cam for you to see conditions at the top before you set out. This is really useful. It looks like a lovely place to visit. Thanks for sharing such an informative post.
National parks are definitely one of the things that I will add to my list of places to see. The view of Mount Rainier is insanely amazing. I have heard a lot about Olympic National Park and seeing your photos only adds fuel to the desire to see it myself!
I don’t think I’ve been on Mt. Rainier or in the National Park. I’ve certainly seen if from many angles as it towers above the Cascades. I’d love to do a backpacking trip there. Looks like you got some nice, clear views!
It looks like you managed to grab the perfect reflection photo! I totally did not know there was an active volcano in the USA. It is totally beautiful, and I love the landscape that surrounds it.
I didn’t know about this National Park or that there’s an active volcano in the US! Looks beautiful and that reflection photo is on point.
The hubby grew up seeing Mt. Rainier from his bedroom window and most of his family still lives in that area. It’s so pretty! We hope to make it back up there this summer.
So beautiful! Can’t wait to reconect with the nature!
I’ve only seen Mt. Rainier from the distance but it was gorgeous and I hope to see it up close. I’d love to see Reflection Lake.