This 10 Hour itinerary showcases local shops, restaurants, trails and more for visitors to enjoy authentic Pacific Northwest experiences in the Mt. Rainier region.
Stop in Enumclaw for a hearty breakfast at the Kettle Restaurant known for their large portions and casual atmosphere. Then take a quick visit to the historic old town shopping area. Don’t miss the stylish Bridget’s Boutique, and CC’s Collectibles. While on Cole Street you may also want to stop by The Sequel Bookstore on Cole Street to browse their extensive collection, more than 80,000 books in stock at reduced prices. half price or less. Find a great read to drop in a backpack to enjoy for later in the day, or maybe even on the plane ride back home.
The best adventures are fueled by coffee and carbs, right? Grab some freshly baked pastries to go at Ann’s Fudge Shop and Bakery along with your favorite coffee beverage at The Local to fuel up with energy for the day. Before leaving town stop at the US Forest Service office on Hwy 410 for maps and other information.
Consider a 20-minute warm-up hike at Mud Mountain Dam and learn some volcanic history along the way during the hike. You will also be treated with a view of a very interesting, operating earthen dam.
Federation Forest State Park © Gexydaf
If you want a bit longer trail for a warm-up, go on to the Federation Forest. Here you will find lots of trails where that meander through old-growth timber and along the beautiful White River. You will find tranquility on the river and beauty under the park’s cool forest canopy. While there, consider a quick visit inside the interpretive center to learn about our old grown forests and a second interaction with the Native Americans and their life in our forests.
Continue to Green Water and make a quick stop at Wapiti Woolies. Behind every good hat is a great story, and Wapiti Woolies is famous for their high-quality hats. Popular with hikers, skiers, and summer vacationers the store also offers a variety of snacks (try the huckleberry ice cream) snacks and souvenirs.
Continue on up the mountain and pay a visit to Crystal Mountain Resort. Crystal is a great spot to ride the scenic Mt. Rainier Gondola to the top of Crystal Mountain where on a clear day visitors experience what many people consider to be one of the best views of Rainier. While you are at the top of Crystal Mountain consider a meal at the Summit House. The Summit House Restaurant is the highest elevation dining experience in all of Washington state! During the summer months, Crystal Mountain is dog-friendly, dogs are allowed on the trails, in the gondola, and at the outdoor “pawtio” seating area at the Summit House. (Please note dogs should be well socialized and on a leash at all times.)
Sunrise at Mount Rainier National Park
After you leave Crystal Mountain, head to the Sunrise section of Mount Rainier National Park where you will be rewarded with striking natural beauty and incredible nature trails to hike. At an elevation of 6400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point you can drive a vehicle at Mount Rainier National Park. Here you will have your pick of hikes for various abilities and wildlife, and during the summer months enjoy an abundance of beautiful wildflowers.
After you are done with your hike, it’s time to head back to the mountain to Enumclaw where we started our journey. This town features two breweries, one winery, one distillery and more than ten eateries for foodies in the Old Town district. Enumclaw is a walkable town, perfect for that evening stroll to the Pie Goddess (National Pie Championship winner) for an amazing slice of pie or to Sweet Necessities for a generous ice cream cone, or handmade chocolates and caramels.
If you have time to experience more of Enumclaw’s fun attractions, consider these lodging options. For additional Enumclaw area information visit www.visitenumclaw.com.