Mount Rainier and the surrounding area is a wonderful destination any time of the year, especially in the spring as the weather starts to become more pleasant and the landscape becomes alive. This is a 3-day itinerary designed to offer you a mix of outdoor adventure, relaxing accommodations, and local eats.
Day 1: Waterfalls, Cider, and Cozy Cabins at Mount rainier
Afternoon: Hike to Little Mashel Falls
Many of the accommodations in Ashford including our cozy cabin, Cabin 135, have check in times between 3-4pm. To take advantage of your day, we would recommend enjoying the surrounding area on your way out to Ashford. There is a wonderful hike in Eatonville, called Little Mashel Falls, which features three splendid waterfalls that are especially beautiful in the spring. The trial is about 5 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain of about 900 feet. This is a perfect hike for your 4-legged friend as well.
You can read more about this hike here.
Late Afternoon: Cider at the Mill Haus
Visit the Mill Haus Cider Co. in Eatonville for delicious award winning cider and good eats after your hike. This cozy establishment has been beautifully curated. The outdoor seating area with the fire pits is a perfect place to spend a spring afternoon.
Evening: Check-In and Dinner at Paradise Village Near Mount Rainier
Arrive at your Ashford accommodations for check-in. Take some time to settle into your cozy base for your Mount Rainier adventure. If you are staying at Cabin 135, this would be the perfect time to relax in the hot tub or sauna.
Once you have built up an appetite, head over to Paradise Village Hotel and Restaurant for dinner. Here, you can enjoy delicious Ukrainian cuisine. We recommend trying the Ukrainian Galushki (Gnocchi)!
For dessert, head back to your accommodations to enjoy some s'mores around the fire. If you forgot to bring s'mores ingredients, you can pick up exactly what you need at the Ashford General Store.
Day 2: Full Day Revolving Around Mount Rainier
Morning: Breakfast at Copper Creek Restaurant
Before heading into the National Park, stop at the historic Copper Creek Restaurant for breakfast. You will feel like you have gone back in time while you devour your their famous homemade blackberry pie and sip coffee.
Afternoon: Explore Mount Rainier National Park
Explore into Mount Rainier National Park from the Nisqually entrance. Since it is still early in the year and there is a chance for snow, you will want to check the national park website for road status information prior to your visit. All vehicles, including 4WD and AWD vehicles, are required to carry tire chains into the park during the winter season (November 1 - May 1). You can rent chains from various locations within Ashford such as Whittaker's Mountaineering and the Ashford General Store.
If the road is from Longmire to Paradise is open, we would recommend driving the scenic road up to Paradise to either hike or snow shoe to Glacier Vista or Panorama Point from the Paradise parking area. These trail starts with a steep climb, but if you have clear views of the mountain, the climb is totally worth the effort. If you are hoping for more distance, you could conquer the Mazama Ridge Loop hike which is about 6 miles with only 900 feet of elevation. This route offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range as you amble through snow-covered alpine meadows. We would definitely recommend checking with a ranger for the most recent trail conditions before hitting the trails. Here is a map of the Paradise area winter hikes (subject to change).
On your way out of the park, you can stop to check out Narada Falls which is less than 3/4 of a mile round trip from the parking lot and worth the visit.
If the road from Longmire to Paradise is closed, do not fret! There are things to do and see around the area. You can walk around the Longmire village or hike the 4.5 mile Rampart Ridge Loop hike which offers a wonderful vista of Mount Rainier. Another option, if Skate Creek Road is open, is to hike the Silver Falls Loop in the southeastern part of the park. Known for its stunning waterfall views, this hike is a beautiful journey through forests and alongside the Ohanapecosh River. Another great option on the southeast side of the park is the Grove of the Patriarchs Loop. This easy, family-friendly trail is a journey through an ancient forest with huge towering trees. This trail was closed in 2023 due to damage to the bridge. We would recommend checking the National Park website on trail status moving forward.
Evening: Rest and Relaxation
After an eventful day, return to your accommodation for some well-deserved relaxation. If you're staying at a place like Cabin 135, take this opportunity to unwind in the sauna or hot tub.
For dinner, you have a few enticing options:
Dine Around the Fire: Enjoy a cozy dinner around the fire at your accommodation. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the day's adventures and relax in the outdoors.
Local Dining: Venture out to local eateries for a more lively evening. The Basecamp Bar and Grill is great choice for a decent dinner and drinks. Check to see if they are open in advance. If you're in the mood for more Ukrainian cuisine, head back to Paradise Village. The area is not just a scenic marvel but also a hub for delightful culinary experiences.
Day 3: A Calm Morning and Hit the Trails Near Mount Rainier
Morning: Coffee and Breakfast in a Cozy Setting
Begin your morning with a visit to Paradise Village for coffee and crepes. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for a quicker option, head over to the Rise and Grind stand in Ashford for a robust cup of coffee.
Late Morning: Relax or Explore
After breakfast, you have two choices: relax in the comfort of your cozy cabin and make the most of the special amenities, or head out for one more outdoor adventure.
If you choose to hike, late spring offers several trails where the snow has melted, revealing the natural beauty of the area.
High Rock Lookout is a moderately challenging hike, which is about 3.2 miles round trip and about 1,400 feet elevation gain. The trail leads you to an incredible lookout point with panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens on clear days. The historic fire lookout at the summit has been removed for restoration.
For a tranquil experience, the Granite and Bertha May Lakes trail is a great choice. This hike is about 3 miles round trip and takes you to serene lakes with minimal elevation gain. It's a perfect trail for those who want a peaceful walk in the woods with their dog.
Packwood Lake is a longer option, about 10 miles round trip, but it's relatively easy with only about 600 feet of elevation gain. The trail takes you through old-growth forests to a beautiful alpine lake. It's a great spot for a picnic and enjoying the peacefulness of the area. It is a great hike with a dog as well!
Afternoon: Head Home And Plan For Your Next Adventure
Your time in the Ashford area may be coming to an end, but the memories of the stunning mountain vistas, cozy evenings, and delightful local flavors will stay with you long after you've returned home. Plan for your next vacation to the Mount Rainier area. The summer offers more hiking and exploration opportunities. Be sure to book your stay at the cozy Cabin 135 in Ashford!
Commenti