While Mount St. Helens is closer to Clark County than Mount Rainier, the main attraction at our explosive neighbor remains inaccessible, so why not take the extra time and visit the closest national park?
As summer winds down, Clark County residents seeking an escape from the everyday hustle may be inclined for a day trip or multi-day excursion to Mount Rainier National Park. The park boasts the most prominent peak in the Lower 48, as well as old growth forests and vibrant wildflower meadows with hundreds of miles of hiking trails.
The mountain towers at 14,410 feet with a prominence of 13,210. In some areas of Clark County, the peak can be spotted on a clear day. But visiting the national park plants visitors in the shadow of the giant volcano.
For wildlife watchers, the park offers probable glimpses at mountain goats and the Hoary marmot — two animals found in the subalpine terrain. Mount Rainier National Park is also home to many carnivore species, such as the American black bear and American red fox, among many other mammals. Also, an abundance of birds call the park home in the wide variety of ecosystems surrounding Mount Rainier.
The entrance gate along state Route 706 to the Paradise unit featuring the fabulous Myrtle Falls and Paradise Inn, is just 125 miles away — roughly a two hour and 15-minute drive from Battle Ground. From Interstate 5, the area is accessed by taking the U.S. Highway 12 exit to Morton, then heading north along state Route 7 to Elbe. Once reaching Elbe, head east on state Route 706 to the park entrance.
Once in the park, the 93-mile Wonderland Trail provides hikers the opportunity for wilderness camping and the ability to cache food along the way. There are also numerous campgrounds and lodging opportunities inside the park, as well as outside the park in the nearby communities.
For a list of maps and other resources to plan a camping trip for the park, visit nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/maps.htm.
