Summer Top 10 | VisitRainier

Sightsee on the White Pass and Chinook Scenic Byways

Flanked to the north and south by two nationally recognized scenic byways, take a sightseeing adventure to Mt. Rainier this summer and see the sights from the comfort of your car. The White Pass Scenic Byway s...

Trek to Silver Falls at Ohanapecosh

For admirers of waterfalls, Silver Falls is one of the park's best. Here's your opportunity for that forest experience of meandering through the tall trees, listening for the roar of the water ever-intensifying...

Visit the Temperate Rainforest at Carbon River

Located in the extreme northwestern corner of the park, the Carbon River area of the park invites visitors to explore a unique ecosystem -- an inland temperate rainforest. Here processions of moisture-laden clo...

Walk the Wildflower & Nature Trails at Paradise

They're world renown for a reason. In the summer months, (peak season from mid-July to mid-August) the meadows surrounding Paradise at Mt. Rainier become alive with color and folks come from all over the world ...

Ride the Mt. Rainier Railroad

It's scenic. It's historical. It's a great experience for train fanatics and anyone who appreciates a beautiful ride through the foothills. Board the Mt. Rainier Railroad in Elbe and take an 18-mile picturesque...

Discover Picture-Perfect Myrtle Falls

With bigger-than-life Mount Rainier as its backdrop, watch Myrtle Falls as it descends along Edith Creek. It's a classic view - and one of the signature views in Mount Rainier National Park. The falls skip a...

See New Exhibits at the Sunrise Visitor Center

At an elevation of 6,400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point that can be reached by vehicle at Mount Rainier National Park. The exhibits at the Sunrise Visitor Center tell the story of the Sunrise area of the pa...

Summit House Dining & Scenic Gondola Rides

Perched atop Crystal Mountain at 6,872 feet, the Summit House serves up breathtaking views and toe-warming treats. Energize your body with hearty soups, chili, gourmet pizzas, pasta, fondue and fresh salads, in...

Have Brunch at Paradise

Where else can you enjoy a delicious Sunday Brunch, dining in an historic, rustic lodge halfway up a mountain? The Sunday brunch at the Paradise Inn Dining Room is legendary. The locally sourced cuisine rivals ...

Hike the Sourdough Ridge Trail at Sunrise

Climb into alpine splendor on the family friendly Sourdough Ridge Trail. It's just the trail for those looking to experience the quintessential Sunrise area hike. The trail boasts in-your-face mountain views, a...

Climb aboard living history for a steam train ride through the forest and foothills south of Mount Rainier.

Photo courtesy Allen’s Photographic

This Memorial weekend enjoy a steam train ride across the Upper Nisqually River, explore fascinating museum exhibits and rediscover America’s love affair with the locomotive. Tickets for this two-hour excursion include museum admission. Train departs from the depot in Elbe, WA at 11:00 AM and 2:15 PM. If you’ve never been to Elbe, you’re in a treat! With a population of less than 50 residents, Elbe is a small town that’s big on charm! You’ll feel like you stepped back in time when you see the historic church next to a century old steam train!

Seating is limited, to guarantee availability advance reservations suggested. Choose to enjoy the First Class 1940’s era vintage Milwaukee Road passengers cars complete with reserved table and chair seating, dedicated attendant storytellers onboard, climate control, complimentary beverages and snacks and a unique Mt Rainier Railroad souvenir. Tickets for seating in the First Class Car are Adult $54 /Child $34. OR opt for open seating in the Standard Class cars, these Tacoma Rail cars are representative of the 1950’s era Amtrak passengers cars offering reserved seating in climate controlled environment with comfortable front-facing upholstered seats in paired rows. Standard Class Car Adult $41 /Child $21.

Mom and daughter ride the steam train in Elbe, WA

Photo courtesy Stormking Photography

Parking is $4 per vehicle. Fares are quoted in US funds and do not include a $3/ticket booking fee. For personal assistance with reservations please call 888-783-2611.

Area Lodging Near the Mt. Rainier Railroad: If you love trains consider booking an overnight at the Hobo Inn. Located next door to the train station, the Hobo Inn is a roadside motel made entirely out of converted cabooses! Perfect for the train enthusiast. Click here for additional options just a short drive from the train station in the nearby town of Ashford, WA. Ashford is located closer to the Nisqually entrance of Mt. Rainier National Park. Visitors to Ashford will find charming country inns, comfortable cabin rentals, rustic campsites, and historic lodges.

Area Dining Near the Mt. Rainier Railroad: Within walking distance of the train depot is the Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Company which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a diner themed train car. There is also a locally owned pizzera, the Pizza Express serves pizza by the pie or slice. The Pizza Express offers covered outdoor seating. And if you’re in the mood for some pub-grub, you’ll find kittycorner from the depot is the Elbe Bar and Grill. If you’re not hungry for a meal but do want a quick snack try the DeWitt’s Elbe Junction for a shop filled with gourmet snacks, beverages and a host of locally produced items by artisans from the region.

Additional Activities Before or After the Train Ride: If you’re riding the 11:00 AM train you could explore the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park after your train ride. If you want to explore the park before the train ride, consider booking the later train to give yourself ample time to enjoy the scenery at the park before it’s time to check-in for boarding. You’ll also find Ex Nihilo, a sculpture park made entirely of recycled iron. The whimsical park is free and open to the public and typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to visit. There’s much more in the region. Extend your adventure and stay overnight. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is open and offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy hours of fascinating watchable wildlife. There’s also a zipline and adventure course in the wildlife park!

If you choose this adventure, we’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to tag us in your posts on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook. #visitrainier