Rainier National Park - Hiking and Camping

We meet our guides and fellow travelers at our host hotel near the Seattle-Tacoma Airport early this morning. After a brief orientation we loadup for the two-and-a-half-hour drive to Eagle Peak Trailhead at Longmire—the gateway to Mount Rainier. This moderately steep, seven-mileout-and-back trail offers a quintessential Mount Rainier National Park hiking experience. Starting under a verdant canopy of old-growth forest,we then pop out into high alpine meadows that offer out-of-this-world views of Mount Rainier and Tahoma. On a clear day, the expansive views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood and Mount Adams take one's breath away. Back at the trailhead, it's just a short drive to our national park campground, where we work together to set up a cozy group site. All meals included. 

Hiking: 7.2 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +2,910' / -2,910'; Van transfer: 3 hours

Today we explore the Paradise region of the park. After a delicious camp breakfast we take a short 30-minute drive to the Paradise Visitor Center. We explore the area on a series of trails thoughtfully stitched together by our guides. Our route showcases some of the park's most celebrated views, including Glacier Vista and Panorama Point. Along the way, our skilled guides share the natural and human history of this favorite national park. We eventually meander down to iconic Reflection Lake. From here you can choose to ride back to camp in the van or hike with our guides an additional 3.5 miles along the famed Wonderland Trail, which takes us straight back to camp. All meals included.

Hiking: 6-10 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +1,600' / -2,000'

Today we set our sights on the Sunrise area of the park. At an elevation of 6,400', Sunrise is the highest point that can be reached by vehicle inMount Rainier National Park. Known for its vibrant wildflower meadows and 360-degree views, Sunrise is a favored destination for both localsand park visitors. Our mission is the top of Burroughs Mountain. This tundra-like alpine mountain offers dramatic, unobstructed views of Mt.Rainier. The nine-mile out-and-back hike provides abundant opportunities to see the wildflowers and wildlife for which the park is renowned .All meals included.

Hiking: 9 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +2,500' / -2,500'; Van transfer: 4 hours

After a final breakfast at camp we pack our bags and load up for our final hike. Today's hike is to Comet Falls and Van Trump Park, located a short drive from camp. Our six-mile, out-and-back hike is along the Van Trump Creek through a beautiful forest with views of several waterfalls. Our hike begins at the often photographed Christine Falls, and the route climbs steadily as we make our way to Van Trump Park. Along the way we choose one of many flower-filled meadows to enjoy during our picnic lunch. On a clear day, we enjoy views of Mount Rainier and St.Helens as well as ample views of the Kautz and Van Trump Glaciers. After our descent we complete the final leg of our journey back to Seattle. We anticipate arriving back to the host hotel near the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport this evening. Breakfast and lunch included.

Hiking: 6 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +2,200' / -2,200'; Van transfer 2-3 hours

We provide

• All Group Cooking Gear
• Camp Furniture
• Group First Aid Kit
• Sleeping Pad
• Tent(s)
• Trekking Poles

What to pack
 

Required gear

• Day Pack (21L-35L)
• Flashlight or Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
• Fleece/Wool Gloves
• Fleece/Wool Hat
• Hiking Pants (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
• Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
• Insulated Jacket and/or Vest
• Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
• Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplocks, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
• Prescription Medications
• Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
• Sleeping Bag (40°+ Most Trips/15°-29° in Colder Travel Periods)
• Tee Shirts (Cotton and Synthetic)
• Water Bottles (Two 1-Liter) or Hydration System Plus One 1-Liter Water Bottle
• Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Recommended gear

• Bandana or Buff for Sun Protection
• Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Lightweight, Synthetic or Wool)
• Camera and Accessories
• Camp Towel
• Casual Shoes for Travel and Free Time
• Duffel Bag or Soft-Sided Suitcase
• Extra batteries or portable power bank
• Hand Sanitizer
• Luggage Tags and Locks
• Pack Rain Cover
• Sun Hat
• Sunblock and Lip Balm
• Sunglasses and Accessories
• Toiletries
• Travel Pillow
• Underwear

You might also consider

• Ear Plugs
• Face Mask
• Liner Socks (Synthetic)
• Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
• Reading and Writing Materials
• Small Binoculars
• Swimwear

Weather
Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are highly variable. Wet, cold weather can occur anytime of the year. The climate is generally cool with summer highs in the 60's and 70's. Although late-July and August are generally the driest and warmest time of the year, summer can also be wet and cool. Snow will remain at the 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation well into mid-July and sometimes through the summer months.

Single Travelers
Tent accommodations are shared and solo travelers will be paired with a same gender tent-mate. If you request single accommodations, will provide you with your own tent at no additional charge if a single tent is available. Please be advised that there are a limited number of tents and single tents are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.