Pedaling from the Midwest, I had just cycled over the summit of White Pass in the Cascades in lower Washington when I rounded a turn and Mt. Rainer in the far distance appeared before my eyes, more beautiful than any painting or photo could possibly capture. Others around me in the turnout were awed and spoke in hushed tones. There was a woman standing next to me who was as equally moved and we faced each other for a time, sharing the moment and silently grinning. She took my photo. …I often think of that brief meeting with warmth and continue to appreciate its uniqueness.
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
“I am a 72 year old adventure cyclist and have completed four solo 4,000 mile plus USA bicycle tours since retirement. I make it a focal point to include our national parks to my itinerary on every trip. I never cease to be awed and inspired by the grandeur and vastness of our stewardship and am most grateful that past leaders had the insight to save these lands as a birthright to our future generations. ”
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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…
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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…
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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…
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