Activities and Recreation
There is always something for people to do anytime of year at Mount Rainier National Park. Specifically in the winter, visitors can go on guided snowshoe walks, camping, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and simply just play in the snow. Climbing is done on Mount Rainier itself, and specifically on the 25 glaciers that surround the peak, such as the Emmons Glacier, Winthrop Glacier, Paradise Glacier, and Cowlitz Glacier. The areas between the glaciers are in the climbing paths as well, including the Cowlitz Cleaver and the Cathedral Rocks. The two camps that are the farthest up on the mountain are Camp Muir and Camp Schurman, where climbers usually stop during their journey. Climbing is also physically demanding, and physical conditioning can help prevent fatigue and injuries. Additionally, climbers must be aware of weather and avalanche warnings in order to know how to make actions in a safe manner.
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During the summer months at Mount Rainier National Park, camping, hiking, climbing, boating, fishing, and bicycling are some of the major activities. If you plan on visiting though, it is best to come in the middle of the week in order to miss the crowds of the busy months. Scenic drives are best from the end of May to the beginning of October, which are times most roads are open in the area. The park is not necessarily known for its fish, even though it is a possible activity. However, it does contain native endangered species of fish and trout, so the park asks fishers to use hooks without barbs and artificial lures. They also ask that unharmed fish be released. No fishing licenses are required for waters in the park, but the Ohanapecosh River and its tributaries are only available through fly fishing, and bait and non-artificial lures are not allowed as well.
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