The Ultimate Three Day Camping Itinerary in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is one of Washington's most pristine wilderness areas, where alpine meadows and dense forests give way to the towering Tahoma Peak. Mount Rainier is one of the most recognizable mountains in the United States and rises roughly 10,000 feet above the surrounding landscape to a whopping height of 14,411 feet. This national park is much more than a single mountain; it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply taking in the views, Mount Rainier provides an unforgettable experience in every season.

Day 1: Arrival & Paradise – Iconic Views of Mount Rainier

Start your adventure by heading to Paradise, one of the most popular areas in Mount Rainier National Park. It offers incredible views of the mountain and is a perfect starting point for a variety of hikes.

• Camp: Set up camp at Cougar Rock Campground, located just a short drive from Paradise. This campground is centrally located, providing easy access to hiking trails and the Paradise Visitor Center.

• Morning Activity:

• Skyline Trail Hike: Start your day with a mini adventure on the Skyline Trail, one of the park's most famous hikes. This 5.5-mile loop takes you through alpine meadows, past waterfalls, and provides spectacular views of Mount Rainier. If you're feeling up for it, continue to the Panorama Point, where you'll get sweeping vistas of glaciers and wildflower-filled meadows.

• Afternoon Activity:

• Reflection Lakes: After your hike, head to Reflection Lakes to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area. The lakes provide a stunning reflection of Mount Rainier, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the surroundings.

• Evening: Return to Cougar Rock Campground for a relaxing evening by the campfire. The surrounding forest and mountain views provide a perfect backdrop as you unwind from a day of hiking and exploring.
• Dinner: Cook up a simple meal at your campsite or enjoy a picnic in the park.

Day 2: Sunrise Area & Glacier Basin – High Altitude Views

On your second day, head to the Sunrise Area, the highest point accessible by car in Mount Rainier National Park. This area offers expansive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

• Camp: Mowich Lake Campground: Located in the northwest corner of the park, Mowich Lake offers a remote and tranquil setting with stunning views of Mount Rainier. It’s a higher elevation campground (about 3,000 feet) and provides access to several great hiking trails, including Tolmie Peak.

• Morning Activity

• Sourdough Ridge Trail: Drive up to the Sunrise Visitor Center, where jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding glaciers will greet you. From here, take the Sourdough Ridge Trail, which offers stunning views of Glacier Peak, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier.

• Midday Activity:

• Glacier Basin Trail: For more adventure, head to the Glacier Basin Trail. This moderate 5.5-mile round-trip trail takes you to the base of the Emmons Glacier, where you can enjoy up-close views of the glaciers and the surrounding alpine meadows.

• Afternoon: After your hike, head back to Mowich Lake Campground for a more relaxing afternoon by the lake.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening at Mowich Lake Campground.
• Dinner: Prepare a relaxing meal at the campsite or enjoy a picnic along the river.

Day 3: Paradise River & Departure

• Camp: Mowich Lake Campground. Stay at Mowich Lake Campground for another peaceful night under the stars.
• Morning Activity:

• Paradise River Hike: Start the day with the Paradise River Trail, a relatively easy 3-mile hike that follows the river and leads to beautiful views of the Paradise Glacier. The trail is relatively easy and offers a chance to see a wide range of wildlife, including elk and marmots.

• Midday Activity:

• Box Canyon & Grove of the Patriarchs: After your hike, head to Box Canyon for a short walk and enjoy the stunning views of the deep canyon formed by the Paradise River. You can also visit the Grove of the Patriarchs, where you'll find a beautiful boardwalk through an old-growth forest with some of the tallest trees in the park.

• Return: Pack up your gear and head home. Make sure you pack up everything you brought and leave no trace so others can enjoy the park.

Mount Rainier National Park offers endless opportunities for adventure. This three-day car camping trip provides the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable natural beauty.