Bob and Pam Nodine: Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is the highest mountain in the Cascade Range and an icon of the Northwest. When the sky is clear it can be seen as far away as Corvallis Oregon. Mt Rainier is not the highest peak in the continental US but the most prominent since the 14,411 foot peak is surrounded by relative lower terrain. It is such a common view to the locals that they simply refer to Mt Rainier as "The Mountain". When conditions are favorable the white cone is visible from many homes and local businesses. On Tuesday, July 3rd, we headed out in quest of a good location to photograph Mt Rainier. Our research indicated we might have a good view from Black Diamond on Highway 169. Although we were hampered by buildings, trees, and overhead wires, we managed to take a decent photo. About ten miles further south on 169 we found an outstanding location with a field in the foreground but clouds were starting to form around the base. We drove all the way around the mountain but the clouds continued to increase. On the south side of the mountain, at 5400 feet, we captured a nice view out over the Cascades. On July 4th, the next day, we were going to the store and noticed the mountain was out in full glory. We found an elevated spot near the campground and took another photo. Below are photos from each location.