The beauty of “Talol” Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier was first known by the Native Americans as Talol, or Takhoma or Tahoma. One hypothesis of the word origin is (“mother of waters”), in the Lushootseed language spoken by the Puyallup people; City of Puyallup (home of the Washington State Fair, located 13 mi. east of the City of Lakewood, use SR 512 for access).
The 2nd largest city in the Puget Sound region, the City of Tacoma, adopted its name after the nearby Mount Rainier, originally called Takhoma or Tahoma. It is locally known as the “City of Destiny” because the area was chosen to be the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century.
Traveling from Lakewood to Mt. Rainier – 54 miles – 1-1/2 hour drive time
Ascending to 14,410′ into the sky, Mount Rainier stands as an impressive icon of Washington’s landscape.
An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning six major rivers and is the highest peak in the Cascade Range.
It dominates the landscape, inspires our imagination, and challenges our senses. From its old growth forests and sub-alpine meadows ~ to its powerful waterfalls and glacier-clad peak, Mount Rainier offers many opportunities to explore its natural beauty. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems. A lifetime of discovery and memories await.
Open year round, the summer and winter draws visitors for hiking, camping, skiing and snow shoeing. In spring, with ephemeral waterfalls ~ and in autumn, with brilliant colors reaching deep into the valleys ~ you can enjoy a more leisurely vacation in the park.
There are two inns located inside Mount Rainier National Park. Call 360-569-2275 for lodging reservations.
To check for campsite availability and reservations, go to www.Recreation.gov for details
General Park Information and current road conditions, 360-569-2211.