03/02/2021
Rainier Rocks ----------
Washington's iconic mountain, is a majestic up close as it is from its skyline perch. Known as Takhoma among the tribal communities that inhabited the area going back as as 9,000 years, the mountain got its English name from Captain George Vancouver who named it after his fried, Rear Admiral Peter Rainier. It received national park status in 1899.
Today, Rainier is a popular destination with endless adventures. Both Paradise and Longmire offer access to a range of trails, along with waterfall views and summit peeks. The historic Longmire district houses a museum as well as a wilderness information center and the National Park Inn.
A few miles away the popular family spot of paradise is known for its wildflower meadows. Several easy to moderate hikes begin next to the visitor center, where kids can take a junior ranger pledge. View seekers will want to head to Sunrise, the highest point reachable by car and the most popular spot in the park, with outlooks over the summit and Emmons Glacier. This area might be the strongest reminder of the effects of glaciers and volcanoes on the landscape.
Experiencewa.com Washington State visitors guide 2020 page 77