Mount Rainier is a stratovolcano located in Pierce County, Washington, United States. It is the highest point in the Cascade Mountains (4,392 m) and the highest volcano in the contiguous United States, excluding Alaska. The volcano was named after British Admiral Peter Rainier. The area of the surrounding territory, which has the status of Mount
Mount Rainier National Park
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Description
Mount Rainier National Park is a United States national park located in southeastern Pierce County and northwestern Lewis County in Washington State. The park covers an area of 953.5 km² and its dominant feature is the stratovolcano Rainier, which has an elevation of 4,392 m. The volcano rises sharply above its surrounding areas, creating a dramatic landscape with elevations ranging from 490 to more than 1,430 m above sea level. This is the highest point in the Cascade Mountains.
Natural features
Mount Rainier is known for its picturesque alpine meadows, relict forests and more than 25 glaciers. The volcano is often shrouded in clouds, bringing significant amounts of precipitation, sometimes leading to devastating floods. The park covers about 370 km² of relict forests and subalpine flowering meadows, which create a unique ecosystem.
History of the park
Mount Rainier National Park was created through the efforts of a group of enthusiasts, including businessmen, scientists, teachers, mountaineers and environmentalists. They lobbied the US Congress for protection of Mount Rainier for six years. Their efforts were crowned with success on March 2, 1899, when President McKinley signed legislation making Mount Rainier the fifth U.S. national park.
Floods and recovery
On November 6, 2006, heavy rainfall led to devastating floods, forcing the park to close. 460mm of rain fell in 36 hours, causing roads and camping areas to be washed out. The park reopened to motorists on May 5, 2007 through the Nisqually Gate.
Tourism and recreation
About two million people visit Mount Rainier each year. Most of them climb in their cars to enjoy the high mountain scenery. Short walks allow you to escape the crowds and plunge into a world of giant trees, alpine meadows, rushing streams and ancient glaciers. In winter, the park attracts just as many people thanks to its skiing opportunities.
Significance of the park
Mount Rainier is the highest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States. It has the largest alpine glacial system outside of Alaska and the world's largest volcanic glacial cave system. Visible throughout the region, Mount Rainier shapes the physical environment, inspires the human experience, and defines the identity of the Pacific Northwest.
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