Ashford

Ashford is your last chance for food, lodging, and gas before you enter Mount Rainier National Park [1] from the most popular Nisqually entrance. Rather than being a “last resort,” some of the hotels, cabins, and restaurants here are as good or better than park facilities.

Established in 1891, Ashford began as an end-of-the-line town where tourists stepped off the Tacoma Eastern Railroad cars to enter the park.

For incredible views of Mt. Rainier, head north from Ashford [2] on Copper Creek Road (Forest Road 59). The road also provides access to the Glacier View Wilderness [3].

Get maps, current weather conditions, and lodging information from the Mt. Rainier Visitor Center inside Whittaker Mountaineering (360/569-2451, Wed.–Sun. 9 a.m.–5 p.m.).

After a weekend of hiking in Mount Rainier National Park [1], head to Wellspring (360/569-2514) or Stormking Cabin and Spa (360/569-2964) for a relaxing massage, sauna, and hot tub.

Summit Haus (next to Whittaker, 360/569-2142, www.rmiguides.com [4]) sells and rents a wide range of camping and outdoor clothing and gear. This is also home to Rainier’s longest-running climbing guide service, RMI Guides.