32 Best Stops Between Wenatchee and Issaquah (2025)

Mt Rainier is absolutely gorgeous! It is a must visit on my list! The hiking trails by the visitor center are stunning. The drive up is also beautiful with waterfalls along it. It felt so magical being up in the clouds! I went in July and there was still snow on the trails but it made the hike more fun!

Wow this park was incredible. Views are amazing-even from the road! There were so many different hikes (our favorite was skyline trail at paradise) and you could even find hikes that were family friendly. Make sure to add this park to your bucket list. Be aware, there’s no gas stations in the park but they do have some just outside so plan accordingly.

Unbelievably beautiful! The views were amazing from all the hiking spots around Sunshine. Sourdough ridge and a few other shorter trails had great vistas, although there was too much smoke to see the peak of Mt. Rainier the day I was there.I was thankful I had some extra layers with me, as it was very cold. It peaked at about 40F in the afternoon, despite being August. So for newbies, bring a hat and an extra jacket!The rangers there in the morning gave fantastic tips for all the trails (and some spots to sit and sketch while avoiding damaging the delicate wildlife), and the gift shop was warm and lovely after my brisk hikes.

One of my favorite national parks. Got to visit in the fall. Our hike up was consumed by foggy mist, on the way down it cleared up though so we got to take in some of the views. A must go place!

Easily one of the most breathtaking U.S. national parks! Mount Rainier is a sight to see at least once in your life. This park is split into different sections due to the size and layout. We spent one day in Paradise and one day in Sunrise, with some stops in between. On a sunny day, you can see Mount Rainier from most places throughout the park. A cloudy day could definitely be a bummer. Unfortunately, our day in Sunrise was all cloud. There are a ton of amazing trails of various difficulties. Just do some research and pick your favorites! Be sure to get out there early so you’re not fighting for a parking spot. And try to go in the shoulder months, if possible. We opted for mid-September. Also, be mindful of the wildlife – the chipmunks will do anything for some of your food. One last thing… the elevation is a little high at points (I started feeling the effects while hiking the Skyline Trail) so just be sure to stay hydrated and take your time. I can’t wait to go back!

The amazing place to visit. Lots of waterfalls and snow. It would be ideal to have snow shoes to climb in the mountains as it can be slippery. We didn't see any Wildlife really, but others seemed to see things like beavers and deer. Bring food as there aren't many options up there.

Wow… this is one of the best mountain’s I have ever hiked on! We took the paradise route and it was very smooth.Once we got into the trail there were clear instructions on where to go and you couldn’t get lost inside the trail. The way up was pretty spectacular as even there were clouds the day we went up, the snowy mountains were BEAUTIFUL!On the way back down I basically sled down like a ski board and it was very enjoyable. You could even slide down on your butt for more fun. Beautiful waterfalls and forests, amazing nature.Highly recommend for everyone to come visit paradise at mount rainier national park when your in a Seattle. This is definitely a must see in Seattle!

Just an absolute beauty of a National Park! One of the best and a must visit if you are visiting the Seattle area. Words cannot describe how beautiful the views are. If you have the chance, definitely stop by both corridors (Paradise and Sunrise). They both offer different views of the mountain and both locations have amazing hikes that let you enjoy the park to the max! Mount Rainier is iconic to the state of Washington for a reason!

This is a gorgeous breathtaking national park that I had the opportunity to travel to back in 2019 and would love to go back. Every view seem to be more gorgeous than the first. I loved taking pictures here but they didn't do justice to the immense beauty. It's God country and would highly recommend going here if you hare ever in the area or just make a trip here to see it and hike the area.

20 stars!Been here many times and it never gets old. Always something new. This time we went in June and there was still snow and ice out in places. Some roads were still closed at the top.We wanted to see as much as possible and the waterfalls were on my list.Wear good shoes/boots, take a camera and a jacket. Then just dive in and discover nature at its most beautiful. Literally every turn had something to offer.I'll let the photos convince you :-)Ps- pets NOT allowed. Wheelchair accessible mostly but not to good viewpoints.Price is $30 per car or free if you have the Washington National Park Pass.

Visited the South side of the National Park in a couple of hours, didn't have enough time to hike much, but saw a couple different waterfalls, used some restroom, and made it to the top of the MT.Rainer base at the Paradise Inn Lodge with a dinner hall, rock fireplaces, Grand Hall, little cafe, gift shop, and 123 rooms costing either $180 or $260 per night with incredible breathtaking views. Great place to getaway, get some fresh air, and go on an adventure with breathtaking views and hiking trails!

Beautiful park! Mount Rainier is a stunning volcano towering amongst the landscape. The winding road throughout the park is so fun to drive with lush greenery for that quintessential “Washington” vibe. The clouds cleared today to reveal a bright sunny sky with stunning views. This was my second time here and just as amazing as the first!

It was so much better than I even expected. The easily accessible hikes are pretty easy and super beautiful. The drive up to paradise is stunning and I loved all the view points. The entrance fee was $30 for a normal sized car. The roads are of course full of curves so drive carefully.

I will be back when the snow melts. We went peak snow days when the snow was up all the way up to their second floor of the visitor center and all the roads after that were closed. But it was absolutely amazing. Coming from Georgia where it barely snows and even if it were to, they either don't stack or doesn't last longer than a day, it was so refreshing to see so much snow and the mountains themselves were beautiful.There are native birds there too that will fly up really close to you. It was such a great experience.Also, make sure you have snow chains ready because they will check at the gate during snow seasons.

Mount Rainier National Park is a place of breathtaking natural beauty and awe-inspiring magnificence. Located in the state of Washington, it is home to the iconic Mount Rainier, a towering stratovolcano that dominates the landscape and captivates visitors with its majestic presence.

Mount Rainier National Park exceeded my expectations! The scenery is breathtaking, offering stunning views at every turn. Trails are well-maintained, catering to hikers of all levels. Seeing the majestic mountain up close was unforgettable. Can't wait to return!

Mount Rainier National Park is simply incredible! It's one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited. Waterfalls, Rivers, Mountain, Lakes, Forests, Wildlife, Night Sky ❤️😍- Somehow, this place feels spiritual – being surrounded by such majestic nature is profoundly moving.- The scenery is breathtaking, and the hikes are absolutely amazing.- Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a nice walk with the kids, this park has something for everyone.- The trails are well-maintained, and the views are spectacular at every turn.- It's a perfect spot for a family day out or a solo adventure. I can't recommend it highly enough – it's a must-see!- Every visit leaves me in awe of nature's beauty.

When I come here I drive at night or early morning so no need for reservations. 7am to 3pm you need to reserve. I have a lifetime military pass so it’s free to enter. My favorite mountain to climb. Been to the summit multiple times via different routes. Been to Camp Muir dozens of times. The only thing is a lot of tourists on the trails near paradise. So just take your time and be patient with them. I’ve done Camp Muir in the winter and saw only one other person. Beautiful all year round. The museum is really cool! The gift shop in the hotel is really busy. I went on a Tuesday the last time I hiked to Camp Muir. Everyone was nice.

One of the most scenic drives I’ve been on—I’ve been to most of the lower 48. This park is massive, not overly crowded and a nature photographers paradise. All times of day, all lighting, it just stands out like one giant masterpiece of snowy peaks and lush wooded passes. If you get the chance to go, do not hesitate.

STUNNING. This was one of my best days on my trip nor my life. I loved the climbing and site seeing in this park. this is one of the best parks in the US and my favorite by far, maybe almost as good as Yellowstone. The amazing views from this mountain are so amazing and the multiple areas to go off and explore for your self are just as good.

Mount Rainier is spectacular, with all the gorgeous views for which you might hope. Paradise Visitor Center is very well done, with great information, a good film, and a handy base for the nearby day hike trails. The trails themselves are well kept and well marked. We encountered a ranger who was literally shoveling steps in the snow to make passing through easier.

Easily one of my favorite national parks for the vertical hikes, wildflowers, and the meeting of rock and flowing water.The paradise loop hike that goes through panoramic point is a top to hike two hike of all time for me (most pictures from there).

Breathtaking park. We went in the middle of October and the weather was perfect. Some of the roads were already closed, as well as some of the ranger stations. Overall a very good park.

Holy Moly that’s the most impressive mountain I have ever seen. Whether it’s from Seattle or the base in the park. The drive up to Paradise went through some impressive stands of forest on the way up to many scenic pullovers and waterfalls. I had limited time and chose to hike up the Skyline trail from the visitor Center. Three of my favourite things in the natural world, an impressive mountain, glaciers, and waterfalls. All in one breathtaking view. The trail up was paved but steep. Amazing views in all directions. A gem in the National Park system.

I absolutely love hiking at Mount Rainier National Park. I grew up in Washington, and seeing the mountain in the distance. It is such a majestic place. I moved to Arizona and miss seeing and exploring the mountain.

The most popular hike spot near Seattle and has a good reason to be. It's a beautiful place during the fall and is ethereal during the winter and spring, completely covered with snow until early June. Good for hiking, camping, day trips.

We visited in June 2024 and the park now requires timed entry. There were plenty of slots still available during the week, but the weekends were full so plan accordingly. I recommend entering on the west or north entrance to have an easy drive through the park with minimal backtracking. The area is absolutely gorgeous, with several visible waterfalls from the road and several more that are easy to access on short trails. The park was busy, but never felt too crowded. Be sure to stop at Narada Falls and Box Canyon. Both were breathtaking.

Simply amazing to explore! We didn’t get to see it all but will definitely be back. Amazing views at just about every corner . We stopped at Reflect Lake and the wind disappeared for amazing pictures. Hiked to Myrtle Falls which I highly recommend. Plenty of parking there if you arrive early but it fills up fast and is one way so if you go too far, you’ll have to loop around. Plenty of beautiful falls to see and hike to. Unfortunately the Grove of the Patriarchs was closed so we didn’t get to see that. Currently on timed entry so be sure to get that before you come here. Would suggest getting in as early as possible for vest parking and lower crowds. We checked the night before and they opened up some more tickets which we were able to upgrade to an earlier slot! We will be back here for sure.

Beautiful views, fun trails, and bold chipmunks. Not quite as fun on the way down. The visitor center got crowded in the middle of the day, but the timed entry process made it very quick and easy to get into the park and actually drive up to the key points without trouble or traffic.

Beautiful park that is a two hour drive ish from Seattle. Be sure to get there early because there will be huge line of people trying to get in. We got there around 9 and it took over an hour to get to the gate. There also might be people along the line trying to sell you some cherries. Place is beautiful but when going in the summer it will be crowded at all the easy to access place which might be a turn off for some. Lots of wildlife to see as you pass by which is really fun

Breathtaking, don't miss! I have travelled around 30 countries and I can say this place is on my top 5 favourite.Such a treat for nature and hiking lovers, the beauty if the snow filled mountains, waterfalls and tall trees takes you to a different world. Don't miss visiting paradise point for its stunning views. There are few more view points on the way.

Amazing park, would highly recommend getting tickets in advance and going early or after 5pm. Reservations were needed between 7am - 3pm. We got there at 3pm and waited 1hr 45min to enter. We entered through Paradise side. Lots of waterfalls and hikes to pick from. Visitor center has nice trail to a waterfall and also great view of the mountain and wildflowers. It's busy but would highly recommend.

O Mount Rainier National Park. What a beauty you are. The drive in is all green, beautiful lush forest. Lovely. Drive into the park, then you hit paradise. Literally the city, but I like to call it paradise as well. Last couple of turns, and then boom there she is beautiful Mount Rainier. Standing all by herself, peeking out of the forest, completely covered in snow in the middle of July. Great hike, I will warn you. This is a paved path, but the incline is very steep. You will see people walking backwards sideways, we even saw a woman crying on the way down. This is not for the faint of heart. Very tiring trail, but a lovely, lovely payoff. When you get past the trees highly recommended, go see it, go see it now.

Breathtaking! Lots of trails with different difficulties. Very easy to drive around during spring and summer. I went for a picnic but you cannot sit at most sites and eat, so I found a remote spot and had a picnic in my trunk

When I arrived at Mt. Rainier last week (21/05/24) there was still a lot of snow on the mountain. The temp was around 45 degree F, or 7 degree C. When we reached the visitor center, it was cloudy at Mt. Rainier, so the weather was overcast. We had actually planned to hike at Skyline Trail, but it was not possible because it was still covered in quite a thick snow.

There really isn’t anything I can say that hasn’t already been said about this park. But so would still like to emphasize how beautiful it is. The hikes have great views and the scenic drives and viewpoints are beautiful. If you are in Washington it is worth spending a day here.

Amazing place. Great trails, waterfalls amazing nature. The timed entry system is great for ensuring it is not too crowded and can be enjoyed.Make sure you have your pass and timed entry ticket (unless you enter before 7am or after 3pm)

This is one of the best National Parks I have ever been to. Mount Rainier is breathtakingly beautiful. The Skyline trail was covered with snow even in July. With the right gear (ice spikes, poles), this trail can be one of the most gorgeous trails you can do!

The mountain was amazing. I went in early August, and it was great. It's a very popular national park, so expect a lot of people, but not very many parking spots. The visitor centers are quite crowded, and the food isn't that great, to be completely honest. The views were nice, and it wasn't that difficult of a hike to get up to the scenic areas. The animals are quite used to people and will approach you regardless of whether you have food or not. But remember to not feed them, because they will start depending on people for their food, rather than naturally scavenging it. If you see any small rock cairns near the river, knock them over, as they are unnatural to the environment. It's fine to build them, just make sure to knock it over after.

Absolutely amazing! My only regret is that I didn’t have more time. Hiking was incredible and unforgettable.

I visited on 18th May, it was an amazing experience. The waterfalls, the snow, the drive - all of it was amazing. To add cherry on the top, it was snowing when i went there. When you enter the national park, you would have to drive another 19 miles to the Paradise Point, there you can do snow based activities. Would definitely recommend ❤️❤️

Gorgeous views and trails. Got our family much closer. Cool squirrels, and I think we saw a marmot. Great places for pictures and lots of oohs and awws. I like it more than Colorado.

There is, quite literally, nothing I could say that hasn't been said and isn't more easily explained visually. Pictures don't and cannot capture the beauty of the mountain, of the park, or of the trails.Paradise is, by far, the most magical area in the entirety of the Pacific Northwest. Even if the mountain isn't visible, the trail is breathtaking. If you have even a modicum of cardiovascular fitness, you absolutely must hike the entire thing before you leave. You just have to.It gets cold as you get close to the mountain, even in summer. There is standing snow. Dress accordingly. Bring food and water. This takes an entire day. Let me reiterate, hiking the entire trail can be tough so wear comfortable shoes.Even if you leave early, you will experience heavy traffic at Paradise and parking can be a miserable experience. That said, it's worth the irritation and much more to see this place.

This park was everything I imagined it would be! It was lush, green, and gorgeous! The mountain is spectacular!!! The glaciers are so cool to see!! All the hikes we took were great. Even the drive is breathtaking!!Bring a lunch as food options are limited. No dogs allowed on most trails.

Must visit places in your lifetime. I couldn't believe my eyes were watching that scenic beauty. The mount rainier is so huge. It was looking so beautiful covered in snow.

We went to Mount Rainier yesterday, May 18, 2024, and it was still snowing.If you want to climb, make sure you have the proper gear for climbing in the snow.Be careful, especially since the trees are covered in snow; you might easily fall.Make sure to bring gloves, winter jacket, proper shoes, and a trekking pole for balance in the snow. Some tourists bring their own trekking poles.At the Paradise visitor center, it has a warm room, a small theater, a cafeteria where you can also order food, a gift shop, and restrooms.The best time to come is in August or fall.There's a trail you can follow, and you'll only need to bring winter jackets for your hike.You'll have a clear view of the scenic beauty of Mount Rainier, and you'll really enjoy your trip with all the flowers, evergreen trees, wild animals from afar, and a waterfall from the melting snow.

It was a bliss driving through the National Park.. it was an outstanding, wonderful and breathtaking experience.. we arrived very late in the evening around 7-8 pm and ended up catching a glimpse of the sunset behind the mountain.. words can’t express the feeling and awe just standing and staring at the mountain and nature around. Driving back we stopped by as we saw snow on the side and I thought I captured the best night shot like I have seen in some painting.. let me know if you think the same too..

Although it was cloudy for a lot of the time the beauty of this place is amazing. Lots of hiking trails, the loop is about 6 miles to the top of the mtn and back down with views all the way around. There are lots of waterfalls too that are easily accessible from the road.

A very beautiful park! Very nice views and fun trails. A couple cool waterfalls you can check out if you follow the right trails. I recommend snow shoes and hiking poles when it has snowed.

Visited the Rainier ( Paradise corridor) during May. It was too cold and snowing. Best time for skiing.Do buy the entry ticket ( Paradise Corridor Timed Entry Reservation).I guess we don’t need to purchase the entry ticket post 5pm PST.Also do check out the food at Wildberry restaurant on the way to Rainier. The owner of the restaurant is a Guinness World Record for fastest ascent of Mount Everest.

One of the most beautiful parks I have ever been to, and I've been to most of the national parks. Water was flowing everywhere, you can't count the number of falls just of the side of the road. The old growth forest near the base are beautiful, and I can't say enough about the views of the mountain. What a sight that must've been for early explorers, and how fortunate I am to see it.

Get there early, parking gets crazy. Make sure to get your timed entrance reservation. Beautiful area! Reflection lake was perfect, great shots of Mt. Rainier, snow and bench lake were amazing! Was able to complete the skyline trail, and the snow lake hike with to kiddos.