Until further notice, there is NO access to Carbon River & Mowich Lake due to the closure of the SR165 Carbon River Fairfax Bridge outside of the park. The bridge is closed to pedestrians as well as vehicles and there is no alternate route. More
Regular nightly closure of the gate to Paradise at Longmire has ended for the season. The road can still close at any time due to weather/road conditions. All vehicles are still required to carry tire chains until May 1. 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.”
