For many, the Paradise area of Mount Rainier is the best place to see and access the mountain. However, it is also the best place to experience and see the beautiful mountain valleys that showcase the incredible wildflowers of the Cascades. From its inception as a National Park, Mount Rainier has been as much a preservation of mountain ecosystems as the mountain itself, preserving old growth forest and meadows as well as glaciers and vistas. While there are beautiful meadows along the Skyline Loop, there is also a specific meadow surrounded by a one way road around it. Here you can see the meadows from your car or hike along and enjoy in person. We were here in September with some flowers remaining but not what you might see earlier in the year. Still what was left in the fall was impressive. Take the time to enjoy the valley.

Who wants to see snow-covered mountains in July? Who wants to walk on snow-covered trails in July? This is a place where such goals can be achieved. It was difficult to get parking, but I persevered, and I found a spot. There was a large parking area. These views were amazing. The hotel had a gift shop, and I saw bathrooms and restaurants. it was difficult to hike, because the trails were slippery due to the cover of snow. It is essential to wear shoes with good traction. The weather was much cooler at this summit.

First and foremost: book early for the timed slot and grab a morning slot. When we left in the afternoon, the line to enter the park was ridiculously long. It will also allow you to grab a parking spot closer to the head of the trail. The visitor center has a lot of information, as well as food. I would suggest bringing you own, especially if you have dietary restrictions (all I saw was hot dogs and friends). After a few hundred meters on pavement, the actual hike starts. Initially steep, but then walking along the ridge is pleasurable and the way back relaxing. Ensure you wear solid boots, because some areas are rocky and sneakers might result in a bad ankle. Do not wear heels, crocs, or sandals. One thinks one would not have to highlight that, but I saw some rather adventurous people with the utterly wrong hiking gear. The views are stunning and the whole loop is about 5 miles. In the approximately 2.5h we saw marmots, chipmunks, deer, and even a black bear at the distance. Overall an amazing day and highly recommended.

With the new reservation system, it's gotten much trickier to visit, but hey, it is so worth it (if you are nimble/lucky enough to score a reserved timed entry). The good news is that this system is only seasonal, from May to September. Reservations are made through the recreation org website. But keep in mind, you also need an entry pass to get into the park. This year at least, that one can be purchased at one of the entrances. Having been a few times over the years, I would say, July and early August are the safest bet for a visit, with the alpine meadows at their peak and the weather more manageable.