Growing up, every summer we would go camping several times a year. We would always camp at least once in Mount Rainier National Park, and often the Olympic National Park also. I loved the tall trees, and the smell of campfires. I loved hiking and observing deer, chipmunks, porcupine, the many birds, and other unexpected wildlife. As an adult, I have continued camping, although no longer in a tent. Now we have a third National Park in Washington, which I will visit this spring
Sincerely,
Mount Rainier National Park
Majestic Mount Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range and an active volcano with more glaciers than any other mountain in the United States. Just an hour's drive from Seattle, the park's wild landscape feels much further from civilization. The forests, parkland, wetlands, lakes and rivers offer 260 miles of trails and varied habitat to dozens of plant and animal species.
State(s): Washington
Established: 1899
“National Parks are the jewels of the USA. More money needs to be allotted and given to these parks. We need more Rangers and educational staff, not less. The roads, trails and campgrounds need maintenance. My membership shows that I care.”
National parks represent the best of America. Why do you care about protecting and preserving them? Tell us why parks matter to you!
Success! Thanks for sharing your story with us.
You’ll be notified by email when your story is approved and added to the collection on the My Park Story homepage.
In the meantime, you can share your own story page with your family and friends — and help us spread the word about these priceless memories and priceless places!
Here’s your unique story page link:
{{ storyUrl }}-
Greetings from Mount Rainier National Park
Being a kid from East Texas, I'd never been to a real mountain. The first time I did visit would be with my future wife. We enjoyed hiking, exploring, and seeing sites that didn't seem real to me. I've rhen, since been many times, but that first visit will forever…
-
Greetings from Mount Rainier National Park
Mt. Rainier National Park had a big role in my coming into this world. My future Dad, Russ Fryburg, managed cabins there in 1942. He'd hangout at Paradise Inn, girl watching. One June night, he locked-in on a stunning redhead, playing that big pinewood piano in the lobby. Even though…
-
Greetings from Mount Rainier National Park
This summer three friends and I had the amazingly good fortune to score a permit to backpack the 93 mile Wonderland Trail around the base of Mt Rainier. We had gorgeous weather and views all ten days and it was the experience of a lifetime. It felt like a rite…
Preserve Our Parks
Make a tax-deductible gift today to provide a brighter future for our national parks and the millions of Americans who enjoy them.
Donate Now