For the outdoor enthusiast, Washington is a dream destination. Every corner of the state provides a myriad of opportunities to climb, trek, and explore the most breathtaking outdoor wonders in the country. And Mount Rainier in Washington is the state's crown jewel. This active stratovolcano in Mount Rainier National Park is the pride and joy of The Evergreen State, and a bucket list item for many a Washington adventurer. But it's also one of the most dangerous National Parks in the country. Outforia recently published the results of a 10-year study analyzing data to determine the most dangerous parks in the U.S., and Mount Rainer ranked number six on the list. Towering at a staggering 14,410 feet high, the majestic Mount Rainier is equal parts treacherous and beautiful. And the same things that make this hike so drop-dead gorgeous, are also what make it so downright dangerous.
Mount Rainier National Park is Washington’s most famous recreation area and our most iconic natural wonder.
With an abundance of trails, this National Park is one of the very best places to hike in Washington.
Looming 14,000 feet above sea level, this picturesque peak has drawn visitors from near and far to either admire or climb its heights.
But these scenic hikes are not without risk.
In fact, Mount Rainier is actually considered one of the most dangerous National Parks in America.
First and foremost, this mountain happens to be an active volcano. And with that comes unstable weather patterns. In fact, temperatures around the peak are known to shift from warm to freezing in the span of just a couple hours. Not unusual are 70 mph winds and rain and snow storms.
What makes the peak so dangerous is the variety of deadly accidents that could occur here.
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Some of these include hypothermia, sudden avalanches, falling rocks, and the potential of falling off the trail.
In its history, Mount Rainier has claimed upwards of 400 lives, a devastating fact that happens to accompany one of the most beautiful sites in the state.
The breathtaking Mount Rainier is one of the most iconic visions in the entire Pacific Northwest -- but it needs to be handled with extreme care.
For anyone attempting to hike in Mount Rainier National Park, it is absolutely crucial to prepare for all possible weather conditions, even in a month as seemingly mild as July. Pack lots of layers and be sure to tread with caution. When it comes to this Washington trek, you can truly never be too careful.
Mount Rainier was recently named one of the most dangerous National Parks in the country, and should be approached with care and caution. But, with great risk comes great reward, and there's no denying the fact that this National Park is a must-visit place in Washington. Have you attempted any of its trails? Be sure to share your stories with us below!
And if you're looking for a low-risk way to take in the beauty of Mount Rainier, Emmons Overlook is an easy, two-mile loop located within the park, and offers some of the most spectacular views of this natural wonder in Washington!
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