Welcome to the Mt Rainier Tour
Explore scenic wildlife, take in majestic views, and dig into history and legends, with this self-guided driving tour of Mount Rainier National Park. Drive through lush forests full of Douglas firs. See majestic Comet Falls. Hear stories of homesteaders and mountain climbers who left their marks and learn about Mount Rainier’s volcanic secrets. Then hear about John Muir, the father of national parks and take in breathtaking views from Sunrise Point Lookout.
About the Tour
Your journey through the iconic Mount Rainier National Park commences from one of two entrances: The Nisqually entrance, and Silver Creek Visitor Center. Drive alongside the Nisqually River and find out about the different types of forests that thrive throughout the park. Then go back in time to learn the history of the Nisqually. Hear how they survived the harsh winters and uncover why they built their shelters at higher altitudes.
Learn about the variety of wildlife in the park, including blacktail deer and bears. Then drive past towering Comet Falls, one of the tallest in the park at 301 feet! After that, meet explorer and entrepreneur James Longmire. Discover how he discovered bubbling hot springs and turned it into a thriving business opportunity, along with constructing the first roads in the area. Drive by Ricksecker Point, which offers beautiful views of Mount Rainier and the forest. Learn about its dangerous history, as well as a link to President Taft!
As you keep driving, dig into Mount Rainier’s volcanic secrets, going back 40 million years! Thankfully, it hasn’t erupted for a very long time! Next, behold 168-foot Narada Falls, and learn the history behind their unique name! Driving along, you might catch a glimpse of Unicorn Peak. Find out how its several glaciers help keep the park lush and verdant! Then hear about the Puyallup people. Learn how they survived and hear about their heartwarming hospitality, which fur traders sadly refused!
Up next, get the stories behind the first Europeans to successfully ascend Mount Rainier and the Yakima guide who helped them. Hear about his haunting warning and find out what happened! As the journey continues, drive past mirror-like Reflection Lake. Hear about the park’s history in WWII, including the famed “Military Ski Patrol.” Discover how their training came in handy in battle! Then drive on past the Shriner Peak Trailhead. Hear about the oldest fire lookout in the park and uncover why it’s needed among all the ice!
Hear about the battles between tribes and the government in the Puget Sound War. Get to know daring figures like Fay Fuller, the first woman to summit Mt. Rainier and William Arquette, a Puyallup youth who found power in music. Then find out how John Muir fought to make Mount Rainier a national park, and marvel at his craftiness and vision. As the journey winds down, drive through the “Quiet Corner,” the lush and leafy portion of the park. Come to the scenic Sunrise Point Lookout, and delve into its history. Hear how the CCC built this overlook and the rough lives its workers lived. Then drive onto Sunrise Rim and Mount Fremont Lookout Trails.
Your journey concludes here for the Nasqually portion of the trip. The Silver Creek tour ends at Tahoma creek.
NOTE: Learn more about the road conditions, admission fees, and other pertinent information here.
2024 Update: Timed reservations are required to enter the Paradise and Sunrise section during specific dates and times.
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Mount Rainier Map
Where To Start?
From Nisqually Entrance : 35707 WA-706, Ashford
From Silver Creek VC: 69211 WA-410, Enumclaw
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The total distance covered by the tour varies depending on the route chosen, but it generally spans approximately 236 miles.
The park is typically accessible year-round, but road conditions can vary with the seasons, so it’s important to check for any closures or restrictions before your visit.
Winter driving in the park is difficult due to snow and ice. Before leaving, visitors should bring snow chains or winter tires and check for road closures and weather updates.
The best time to drive the tour is typically during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the weather is milder, and most roads are open.
On this self-guided driving tour, discover Comet Falls, the serene Nisqually River, and Mt. Rainier National Park’s rich history.
The tour can begin from either the Nisqually entrance or the Silver Creek Visitor Center.
You may encounter blacktail deer and bears while driving through the park.
Narada Falls is a 168-foot waterfall with a unique name, and its history is quite intriguing.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
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