Every person has a special location that captures their heart, and for me, that place is undeniably the mountains. During my time living in Washington, I found solace in the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Rainier, which quickly became my favorite retreat. However, my initial experience with majestic mountain ranges began with the Rockies in Colorado, where I first discovered my passion for these stunning landscapes. Since I began writing this blog, I’ve had the opportunity to explore every state that boasts a portion of the Rockies, enriching my love for the mountains even further.

Returning to the subject of Mt. Rainier, I recall that when I first relocated to Washington in 1992 with the Army, it took me more than a week to finally catch a glimpse of this magnificent mountain. The moment I laid eyes on it, I was captivated and found myself yearning to experience its beauty time and again. From that point on, I dedicated every free moment I had to exploring various spots on the mountain. Therefore, during my visit this week, revisiting Mt. Rainier was at the very top of my to-do list.

The journey to the base of Mt. Rainier typically takes about an hour, but the drive is truly remarkable, especially once you escape the confines of the urban landscape. Most of my explorations have been concentrated on the western slopes of the mountain, particularly around the Paradise area, which is renowned for its stunning vistas. Although I have ventured to the eastern side as well, the contrast between the two regions is striking. The eastern slopes present a more arid, desert-like environment characterized by expansive canyons and a drier climate, while the western side is lush and verdant, filled with dense forests and a noticeably wetter atmosphere. Each side offers its own unique charm and beauty.

This visit was particularly hectic, as we had to drive past the Paradise area and park about a mile downhill before embarking on our hike back up to Paradise. If you’re not intending to hike from that point, there’s not much to see in the immediate vicinity. At Paradise itself, you’ll find a quaint gift shop and a small museum that provides insights into the mountain’s natural history. Additionally, there’s a charming hotel that offers a perfect spot to rest. On a clear day, the views of the mountain’s peak are breathtaking, making the effort to reach Paradise all the more worthwhile.