03/25/2025 The Paradise Road is open to Longmire. All vehicles, including 4WD and AWD, must carry tire chains and be ready to use them. The road is projected to re-open Friday 03/28 at 9:00 AM but is subject to change, check back for updates. More
A group of Mount Rainier Institute students visiting Paradise at Mount Rainier National Park.
NPS Photo
Mount Rainier Institute provides outstanding nature-based education experiences that are rooted in science and nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders. School programs immerse students in a rich learning environment where they explore the natural world, develop a connection to nature, and build community.
An Amazing Classroom: Mount Rainier National Park and University of Washington’s Pack Forest provide a classroom like no other. Learn about volcanoes and earth science on a volcano; study forest ecology in an old growth forest; learn about watersheds by seeing the glacier where the river begins.
Learn by Doing: School programs engage students in grades 4-12 in hands-on science and dynamic interdisciplinary activities. Student centered field investigations focusing on forest ecology, earth science, and watersheds allows students to practice their science skills while exploring beautiful places.
Length: Programs are 1 day, or 3 days/2 nights, 4 days/3 nights, or 5 days/4 nights.
Fall season begins September through mid-November.
“We had so much fun and learned so much. It pushed our kids to a new level and they rose to meet the challenge. It was great to watch their growth as learners and people over the course of the short week.”
