We're so lucky to have a national park to visit in Washington like Mt. Rainier. Not only is the mountain itself absolutely iconic, but it's also surrounded by the most stunning natural beauty in the state. And while spending a summer day at Mt. Rainier is amazing, nothing beats a crisp autumn day. If you need proof that this is one of the best parks in Washington, just look at these spectacular photos.
If you’re planning a visit to this incredible national park, there’s no better time to visit than during National Park Week. Learn all about this celebration of America’s great outdoors — including fee-free days throughout the year!
This shot was captured near Paradise during the first week of autumn when the leaves were just starting to turn.
As you can see, it already looks colorful and vibrant.
Some of the best autumn scenes can be spotted on the Skyline Trail.
The five-mile loop is a somewhat challenging hiking trail in Washington, but as you can see, it's worth the effort.
Vine maple, high elevation huckleberry bushes, and larch (tamarack) are the top sources of fall hues here at one of the best parks in Washington.
The vine maple is what gives the hillside a lovely shade of red.
The three-mile Naches Peak Loop Trail is also exceptionally stunning in October...
... but if you want a nice, easy, scenic hiking trail in Washington, check out the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail.
You'll be surrounded by rich fall hues for the entire mile.
Did you know Mt. Rainier National Park has some of the most vibrant fall foliage in the Pacific Northwest?
Here in Washington, people tend to head to the Cascades to see it. But this national park to visit in Washington never disappoints.
What else but Mother Nature could create something this magnificent?
It's amazing to get such a spectacular visual display before the long, dark winter (sorry, Washingtonians, it's coming).
Tipsoo Lake is one of the park's most iconic spots, and we happen to believe it shines its brightest in October.
And the colors are reflected in the water, which only amplifies them.
If you've been on the fence about paying Mt. Rainier one more visit before winter, we hope you've been colorfully convinced that this is one of the best things to do outside in Washington.
You just don't see rugged beauty like this every day.
Visit the NPS website to learn more about this national park to visit in Washington.
What are your favorite things to do outside in Washington? Tell us in the comments!
After a long day of exploring Mt. Rainier National Park, we recommend spending the night in the tiny town of Elbe.
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