The fifth-highest mountain in the continental United States also happens to be in the fifth US national pThe fifth-highest mountain in the continental United States also happens to be in the fifth US national park ever established. Mount Rainier National Park and its namesake peak have more than just that coincidence going for them: More than 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness share the scene with that mighty stratovolcano. Nearly half of that area is covered by old-growth forests, and 26 glaciers blanket over 30 square miles of the park.Understandably, this is a place that attracts adventurers of all stripes. If you’re eyeing that mountain and considering a climb, you may want to get some practice in first. Of the tens of thousands of climbers who attempt to conquer Mt. Rainier each year, only about half reach the summit... See more See less
