Faith Lo
Rising 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier is the most iconic peak in the Pacific Northwest and the crown jewel of Washington state. As the fifth national park established in the U.S. (in 1899), it holds a special place in our country’s conservation story. But its significance stretches back much further. For thousands of years, this land has been home to Indigenous tribes including the Cowlitz, Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, and Yakama, who hold the mountain sacred.
With 25 active glaciers, vibrant meadows, ancient forests, and over 260 miles of trails, Mount Rainier is both a powerful geological force and a place of awe-inspiring beauty. It is, in fact, an active stratovolcano, though it hasn’t erupted in over a millennium. Still, it’s carefully monitored by scientists due to its glacial activity and potential hazards. This ever-changing landscape continues to captivate millions of visitors annually, and it’s easy to see why. Read more about Mount Rainier here!
Where to Stay: Paradise Inn, National Park Inn & Sunrise Lodge
For visitors wanting to immerse themselves fully in the Mount Rainier experience, Mount Rainier Guest Services offers lodging options that blend historic charm with unforgettable scenery. Each location offers a different perspective of the park and they also offer Deneen Pottery mugs at each location.
Paradise Inn
Built in 1916, Paradise Inn is one of the most beloved and historic lodges in the National Park system. Nestled at 5,420 feet, this alpine-style lodge sits in the Paradise area, known for its lush meadows bursting with wildflowers and breathtaking views of the glaciers. It’s open seasonally and often booked months in advance, thanks to its rustic beauty and proximity to popular hiking trails. Click here to check Paradise Inn Website!
National Park Inn
Located in Longmire and open year-round, the National Park Inn offers a cozy, cabin-style experience with modern amenities. With fewer crowds and easier winter access, this inn is perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the quieter side of Mount Rainier. Click here to check National Park Website!
Sunrise Day Lodge
Open in the summer and located at the highest point accessible by car in the park (6,400 feet), the Sunrise Day Lodge offers panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding peaks. While it doesn’t provide overnight accommodations, its snack bar and gift shop make it a popular daytime destination for hikers and sightseers.Click here to check Sunrise Day Lodge Website!
Handmade Mount Rainier Mugs
We’re honored to partner with Mount Rainier Guest Services to create custom Mount Rainier mugs that are sold at park lodges and gift shops. Each mug is hand-thrown by our talented team at Deneen Pottery and features our signature medallion artwork showcasing the grandeur of the mountain. Whether you’ve stayed at Paradise Inn, explored the wildflower trails, or watched the alpenglow from Sunrise, these mugs are a beautiful reminder of your time in the park.
Can’t make it to the park in person? No worries! You can find select Mount Rainier mugs online at deneenpotterymugs.com. Each one is a small piece of the park you can hold in your hands and 10% goes back to the national parks.
Why Protecting Our Parks Matters More Than Ever
Our national parks are facing unprecedented challenges from the effects of climate change to underfunding and overcrowding. Supporting and preserving these places is not just a responsibility, it’s a way to ensure future generations can experience the same wonder we do today.
One of the best ways to get involved is through the work of the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). For over 100 years, NPCA has championed efforts to defend and preserve our parks, ensuring they remain protected for all people. You can explore their work and get involved here: npca.org
Other ways to support the parks:
- Visit!
- Volunteer for park clean-up days
- Donate to organizations that protect public lands
- Shop from park partners like Deneen Pottery who give back
Whether you’re planning your first visit to Mount Rainier or reminiscing about a past adventure, our handcrafted mugs offer a daily reminder of one of America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Celebrate the beauty, support the parks, and hold a piece of the mountain in your hands.
Shop Mount Rainier mugs: deneenpotterymugs.com
Support national parks: npca.org
Faith Lo
