In the morning, hike the Skyline Trail, a 5.3-mile round trip with breathtaking views of glaciers, wildflowers and waterfalls. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Myrtle falls, then head to the Grove of the Patriarchs via Stevens Canyon Road. Marvel at the ancient trees and serene surroundings before driving to Paradise for the sunset. Dinner at the Paradise Inn restaurant is a must.
Start the day at Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Take a stroll on the Hurricane Hill Trail and spot wildlife along the way. After lunch, visit Lake Crescent and admire the sapphire water and forested shoreline. End the day with a visit to Sol Duc Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Begin at the North Cascades Visitor Center for an introduction to the park. Then, venture to Diablo Lake for a breathtaking view of the turquoise water and surrounding mountains. Take a guided tour of the Seattle City Light's Skagit River Hydroelectric Project and learn about the area's history. End the day with a drive on Highway 20, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
If you have extra time, consider visiting Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. It's about 2 hours south of Mount Rainier National Park and offers incredible views of the volcano. For a side trip, visit Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style mountain town. To maximize your fun, pack plenty of snacks, water, and layers for changing weather conditions. Don't forget your camera!
For more local attractions and events, check out https://www.nps.gov/state/wa/index.htm. To find hotels and flights, visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.