The Seasons of Mount Rainier

Duration:

41.808 seconds

When the Skunk Cabbage starts growing we know that spring has arrived at Mount Rainier! Though much of the park is still covered in snow, the Skunk Cabbage's bright yellow "flower" is easily recognizable in the park's wet lowlands. The yellow hood-like "flower" is actually a modified leaf, which helps protect and insulate the true flowering spike within. The hood keeps the flowers just warm enough to let this plant flourish when it's still too cold for other flowering plants.

 

Duration:

1 minute, 49 seconds

Stroll along the Trail of Shadows and discover the hidden Longmire Meadow. This meadow is a unique oasis amidst Mount Rainier's lowland forests, providing sanctuary to birds and other wildlife.

 

Duration:

1 minute, 48 seconds

The road to Sunrise is known for its spectacular vistas and viewpoints, but can also be a great way to see a variety of wildflowers. Limited by a short growing season, these wildflowers display a kaleidoscope of colors to quickly attract insects for pollination and reproduction.

 

Duration:

1 minute, 43 seconds

The Carbon River area of Mount Rainier receives more rainfall than any other area of the park, creating a distinct forest ecosystem. However, early fall can be a great time of the year to experience the forest at Carbon River without having to experience the rain at Carbon River.