By Carolyn White
For a complete story about visiting Mount Rainier, click here.
- Drinking Water—stay hydrated. Bring your own water. The NPS is phasing out the sale of plastic bottled water in the national parks. Drinking water is available— you need a canteen.
- Sun Screen—spread over all exposed areas to prevent reflective burn.
- Insect Repellant—especially needed if you are hiking in areas after the snow has melted.
- Hat, jacket and gloves—even in the summer, it can be cool and windy in Paradise.
- Change of clothing—have a dry pair of foot wear available and consider an extra pair of pants. There are several gift shops in the park that sell hats, socks, jackets and hoodies in case you need a few more layers.
- Plastic bags/shopping bags—keep in mind that the NPS, like many Western Washington cities and counties, now bans plastic bags at ALL retail stores. Recyclable bags are available from Paradise area gift shops for a nominal fee.
- Camera/extra batteries/SD card/film—you will be overwhelmed by the natural beauty of the area. Capturing the infinite vistas may drain your batteries and fill your memory card. Be prepared to take hundreds of photos.
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Christine Falls at Mount Rainier Gasoline/Diesel—if you are driving, remember, there are no service stations in the park. If you approach the park from the west entrance, you will see a sign stating “next services 83 miles.” This is accurate. Arrive at the park with enough fuel to return to civilization. The rangers do not have fuel.
- Food —Bring your picnic lunch. There are several outdoor picnic areas in the Paradise area. Basic food supplies are sold at the Longmire store. You also have several dining options available from fast food to full-course meals. Check the NPS website for locations and current hours of operation.
- Special Requirements—if you are traveling with an infant bring an all-day diaper bag and associated supplies. If you have special medications or require specific brands, carry them with you. Although the gift shops carry some sundries, remember that you are visiting a remote area and what you are normally used to may not be available.
- Pets—your pet can only go where your car can go, i.e. on the road, in a parking lot and in campgrounds. Your pet must be on a leash no longer than 6’ (1.8 meters) and be under your control at all times. Unless you have a service animal, such as a seeing-eye or hearing-ear dog, pets are not allowed on any trails, in the snow, in any buildings or amphitheaters, or in the Wilderness. Since the Paradise parking lot is in the direct sun all day, consider how happy your pet would be in a potentially hot vehicle while you are exploring the area.
- Relax and enjoy the journey—a little preparation goes a long ways for a pleasant day-trip. Remember to park in designated areas. If one area is full, there’s always another up the road. Pay attention to speed limits. Read the literature you receive at the Park entrance for updates on current conditions.
