Place

Sunrise Picnic Area

Picnic table in grassy meadow surrounded by trees with glaciated mountain in the background
Sunrise Picnic Area

NPS Photo

Quick Facts
Location:
Sunrise

Picnic Table

Season: Summer (July to September) 

  • The Sunrise Picnic Area is typically open July to September, depending on weather and road conditions. 

Overview 

  • The Sunrise Picnic Area is located just north of the Sunrise Visitor Center at the end of the Sunrise Road, 14 miles from the White River Ranger Station.  
  • It features approximately 40 picnic tables to enjoy a packed lunch in the trees with views of the mountain on a clear day. In terms of accessibility, paths are hard gravel but not smooth or level. There are many picnic tables, although none are extended. 

History 

  • The Sunrise Picnic Area was bult as part of the Mission 66 program for Mount Rainier National Park from 1956 to 1966. Mission 66 for Mount Rainier included plans to develop 1,200 new camping and picnic sites, or nearly four times what the park already had available. The old Civilian Conservation Corps-built campground and picnic area at Sunrise (near Shadow Lake) was rehabilitated and the smaller campground beside the visitor center was converted to a picnic area. 

Rules & Regulations 

  • As you enjoy a picnic here, please be mindful of your impact to the landscape, wildlife, and other visitors. Trash cans are located near the restrooms for you to clean up and dispose of all waste.
  • Please empty wastewater in sinks and deposit any solid food waste into trash cans. 
  • Never feed any wildlife or leave food unattended to avoid wild animals getting food that could make them sick or cause them to act aggressively. 
  • Pets must be on a leash, not more than six feet (1.8 meters) in length or in a crate/cage at all times. 
  • Pets are allowed along the road and paved sidewalks and may join you at your picnic at tables. Pets are not allowed on any trails in Mount Rainier National Park. 
  • There are many small, maintained paths to get to and between picnic tables. Stay within the established pathways to reduce impact on the surrounding subalpine meadows. 
  • If you choose to play music, please be aware of volume out of respect for other visitors and wildlife.   

Mount Rainier National Park

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Last updated: January 12, 2024