Make the Most of Spring with These May Activities

April and all of its snow and rain showers are starting to fade into the past.

May is on its way, and with its arrival comes a whole bunch of fun events and activities for visitors to the mountain to enjoy. If train rides through the wilderness, waterfall hikes, and a wine walks sound like the perfect way to take in spring at Mt. Rainier, read on to find out our top picks for what to do in May when you head to the mountain for a stay.

photo: Melkir via flickr

Photo Tours at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Do you have an amateur photographer in your family? Or are you a pro? Whether you’ve been practicing taking the perfect snaps for years or you are just learning to take wildlife shots, Northwest Trek’s Photo Tours are sure to send you home with plenty of frame-worthy pics. Participants don’t have to worry about finding the right location for the optimal shot; the staff has figured out all of the important details ahead of time. The tram gives photographer’s prime views of moose, mountain goats, bison, and other local wildlife residents. Seating is limited to avoid overcrowding and the windows are removed from the tram so that they don’t obstruct your ability to take that incredible shot.

Date: May 5
Online: nwtrek.org/visit/tours/

Mother’s Day Buffet
What is better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than with a buffet lunch at the Historic National Park Inn? Spend the day relaxing and enjoying the beauty of Mt. Rainier and then fill up on incredible bites served at the Inn. The buffet’s menu will make your family’s mouth water with freshly prepared options including Sesame Tofu Salad, Roasted Breast of Chicken, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes and more. Tickets are $23.95 per adult and $13.95 per child. Find out more Here.

Date: May 13
Online: Mtrainierguestservices.com

Go on a Spring Wine Walk
Head to Enumclaw for music, wine, local wares and festivities during the annual Spring Wine Walk. Sip your day away while perusing items made by artisans. Tickets include full stem wine glass, 10 tasting tickets, and a Wine Walk Passport for notes. 15-20 wineries are anticipated. Tickets are $30.

Date: May 19
Online: facebook.com/events/1926267494355470/

Go on a Waterfall Hike
As the snow and ice melts and disappears, the waterfalls at Mt. Rainier National Park turn up their magnificent display. Whether you are in the mood for a hike or just want to enjoy a scenic drive, there’s a waterfall experience that is perfect for you. Just a short stroll from the Paradise parking areas you can catch incredible views of Christine Falls and Narada Falls. Put on your hiking shoes and wander along Paradise River Trail which will give you wonderful views of Carter falls and Medcap Falls or make your way to Comet Falls if you want to go for a good hike.

Go on a Steam Train Ride and Museum Tour
Mt. Rainier Railroad is finally firing up its engine again and on May 26 you can catch a ride through the emerald foothills of Mt. Rainier. The excursion takes you to the museum and event park near the town of Mineral where you will get to explore the ancient logging camp and check out the world’s most comprehensive collection of steam logging locomotives.

You can ride first class in a midcentury passenger car and enjoy sitting at a table or cozy up in a both while you are waited on by service attendance serving complimentary snacks. Keep it simple in standard class where you will be seated in Tacoma Rail cars much like those of the 1950’s era Amtrak.

Online: mtranierrailroad.com