How to Hike Mt. Rainier

Mt. Rainier, in Washington state, is a glaciated 14,410 foot active volcano that many outdoor enthusiasts hike and climb each year. While hiking Mt. Rainier can be a wonderful experience, there are some steps that you should take to make sure that you have an enjoyable and safe day on the mountain.

Things You'll Need

• Map of Mt. Rainier Area
• Compass
• Flashlight with Extra Bulb and Batteries
• Extra Food
• Extra Clothes and Rain Gear
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses
• Pocket Knife
• Matches in a Waterproof Container
• Fire Starter, Such as a Candle
• First Aid Kit

Instructions

1. Remember that hiking on rough terrain, steep ground and at high elevations takes a good amount of proper conditioning. Be sure that you are in good enough physical shape to undertake a hike of Mt. Rainier.

2. Bring the items that you will need for a hike on Mt. Rainier. The National Park Service refers to these items as the "10 Essentials", and are listed in "Things You Will Need," as well as on the park website. Even if you think that you may not need all of these items on your hike, it is better to be prepared.

3. Know the hiking trails, as well as any applicable trail advisories and warnings. Find information on hiking trails on Mt. Rainier on the website for the National Park Service, as well as on other Internet sites. Trail advisories and warnings can be found online as well, or call the park at [phone].

4. Learn and follow all rules that are posted at information centers inside Mt. Rainier National Park and listed online on the website for the National Park Service. Some of these rules include: carry all trash and waste off the mountain with you, use Blue Bags to dispose of human waste and stay on the trails at all times.

5. Reserve campsites or other lodging in advance, if you plan to camp on the mountain or stay overnight at one of the lodges inside Mt. Rainier National Park. The website for the National Park Service provides information on campsites, other lodging, costs and availability.

6. Check the weather on Mt. Rainier before you come for your hike. If the weather is poor, visibility is bad or if there is a risk for avalanches or storms, it is not suggested that you hike the mountain. Current weather information for Mt. Rainier can be found online or by calling the information centers at the park.

7. Map out how to arrive at the mountain, as well as the best travel routes to take. Some roads may be closed at any time during the year and it is best to know about these closures beforehand.

Tips & Warnings

• Some trails at Mt. Rainier are easily accessible by families with small children or baby strollers, as well as by people with wheelchairs. Information on these accessible trails can be found online.

• Always tell someone back home of your plans to hike Mt. Rainier. Let this person know where you are going and when you should be expected to return. This way, if you don't return as expected, this person can notify the National Park Service.

• Do not hike Mt. Rainier alone. The safest way to hike is with a buddy.

• Comply with all instructions and warnings given to you by park rangers or at information centers, for your safety during the hike.

Resources

• Mt. Rainier Information from the National Park Service.
• Information on hiking in Mt. Rainier National Park.