500,000 years agoThe volcano now known as Mount Rainier formed during 5 eruptive periods of activity. During this time, eruptions left behind layers of lava forming the mountain we see today.
Artwork by Michael Stasinos, originally published in “Berkeley Rockshelter Lithics: Understanding the Late Holocene Use of the Mount Rainier Area.” Bradford W. Andrews, Kipp O. Godfrey, and Greg C. Burtchard. Journal of Northwest Anthropology, 50(2):167 9,000 years agoThe ancestors of current American Indian tribes started to visit to the forests and meadows around the mountain to hunt, fish, and gather plants. American Indian tribes continue to have a close relationship with the mountain to this day.
NPS photo 1792Upon seeing the mountain for his ship in Puget Sound, British Captain George Vancouver named Mount Rainier after his friend Rear Admiral Peter Rainier.
NPS photo 1870Philemon Van Trump and General Hazard Stevens make the first documented ascent of Mount Rainier, with help from their native guide Sluiskin.
NPS photo 1890James Longmire and his wife Virinda build Longmire Springs, Mount Rainier's first hotel.
NPS photo 1899Mount Rainier becomes the nation's fifth national park.
NPS photo 1930sDuring the Great Depression, Mount Rainier builds a lot of new trails and campgrounds and even opens a nine hole golf course to try and attract new visitors.
NPS photo 1943During World War II, Mount Rainier serves as a training facility for the army's new mountain divisions.
NPS photo 1988Over 95% of the park is designated as wilderness giving the mountain more protection against over use.
NPS photo TodayAlmost 2 million people visit the park each year! |
Last updated: January 27, 2025