Many say it’s “America’s Everest”, so how do you take a powerful, ever-changing place like Mount Rainier and make it accessible to children?
Junior Ranger Program at Mount Rainier National Park
Enter the Junior Ranger program. There are two different ways to become a Junior Ranger at Mount Rainier…by attending a program or by completing the Junior Ranger Activity Book. Both are free!
Special ranger-led programs for Junior Rangers age 6-11 are offered throughout Mount Rainier National Park during the summer. Look for them at the Cougar Rock Campground, Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise, Ohanapecosh Visitor Center, and Sunrise Visitor Center. Join a program and earn a cool sticker.
The other way to become a Junior Ranger is by completing a Junior Ranger Activity Book. The booklet is available year-round at all the park visitor centers. Children can complete the activities for their age group, have a ranger review their work, earn a certificate and badge, and be sworn in as an official Mount Rainier Junior Ranger!
In the summer there are additional ranger-led walks and talks that families can participate in throughout the park. From late December until the end of March families can join a snowshoe walks at Paradise on Saturday, Sundays and holidays. Check the park newspaper and the park website for additional information on programs, times and locations.
Famous for its hiking and wildflower viewing Mount Rainier is a natural playground. The Junior Ranger program helps families to connect with the natural world in a fun, educational and engaging way. Families can step back in time and walk in the footsteps of the pioneers by visiting historic buildings in the park.
Whether you’re camping in the park or staying at a lodge, cabin, or an inn, families can easily enjoy multiple days exploring Mount Rainier National Park and the surrounding communities.
Additional Resources
You can also become a WebRanger, play activities and learn about National Parks from home! Check out the WebRangers Program!
For more information on the Junior Ranger program call (360) 569-2211 or contact Mount Rainier National Park by clicking here.
For kids 12 and older check out the Citizen Ranger Quests.
For kid-friendly lodging in the Mount Rainier area click here.