Seattle: Longmire in Mount Rainier Winter Day Tour

Exploring the winter wonderland of Mount Rainier is a must-do activity for any visitor to the Seattle area. The Longmire Winter Day Tour provides an exciting opportunity to experience the park’s ancient forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning scenery. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll embark on a scenic journey that promises breathtaking vistas and a deeper understanding of the region’s natural history. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a memorable outdoor adventure, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the captivating beauty of Mount Rainier in the winter months.

Key Points

• This 8.5-hour guided tour takes visitors from Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park’s Longmire area, offering a scenic van ride, hiking, and a seasonal picnic lunch.
• The tour includes expert naturalist guidance, transportation, equipment, and insights into the park’s natural history and local wildlife.
• Participants can expect to walk 1-3 miles with minimal elevation, exploring ancient forests and taking in scenic viewpoints.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or young children, and warm, waterproof clothing is recommended.
• The tour price is $262 per person, with a maximum of 10 participants, and pickup options are provided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Seattle: Longmire in Mount Rainier Winter Day Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the ancient forests and scenic wonders of Mount Rainier National Park.

Priced at $262 per person, the 8.5-hour tour takes a small group of no more than 10 participants on a journey from downtown Seattle.

Highlights include a guided hike, scenic viewpoints, and a seasonal picnic lunch.

The tour provides pickup options, expert naturalist guidance, transportation, and all necessary equipment.

Participants should dress warmly and be prepared for winter conditions.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or young children.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a scenic van ride from downtown Seattle to Alder Lake, lasting approximately 1.5 hours.

Guests will take a break for coffee, tea, and local snacks before heading to Mount Rainier National Park for a guided tour and sightseeing, totaling 1.5 hours.

Afterward, the group will enjoy a picnic lunch at Longmire, followed by a guided hiking and scenic viewing experience for 1.5 hours.

The tour concludes with a 2-hour van ride back to downtown Seattle, covering a total walking distance of 1-3 miles with minimal elevation.

Experience and Highlights

Guests on this tour have the opportunity to explore the ancient forests of Mount Rainier National Park, guided by an expert naturalist.

They’ll observe local wildlife like deer, elk, foxes, and wintering birds. The tour provides insights into the area’s natural history and Cascade volcanoes.

Guests can enjoy a seasonal picnic lunch with warm soup, light breakfast pastries, and assorted snacks.

A seasonal picnic lunch with warm soup, light breakfast pastries, and assorted snacks awaits guests on this tour.

The guided hiking and scenic views offer a chance to take in the serene winter landscape.

With provided snowshoes, if necessary, guests can discover the beauty of this iconic Pacific Northwest destination.

Included Amenities

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from specified locations, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.

A seasonal picnic lunch is provided, featuring offerings from a local female-owned catering partner.

An expert naturalist guide accompanies the group, sharing their knowledge of the area’s natural history and Cascade volcanoes.

Coffee or tea and light snacks are served in the morning to start the day.

All park entry fees are covered, and snowshoes are provided during winter months if needed.

With these included amenities, guests can focus on enjoying the sights and experiences of the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Gloves, rain gear, hat, and warm clothing are recommended for this tour. Waterproof boots are required during the winter snowshoe tours, which run from November to May.

The tour explores lower elevation regions of Mount Rainier National Park and doesn’t include the Paradise area. Suitability is limited, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under 9 years old.

Luggage, large bags, and pets aren’t allowed on the tour. The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is essential.

Exploring the Ancient Forests

Venturing into the ancient forests of Mount Rainier National Park, guests will be captivated by the towering Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar trees that have stood the test of time.

The guided nature walk offers a chance to observe the diverse wildlife that call these forests home, including deer, elk, and a variety of wintering birds.

Along the way, the knowledgeable naturalist guide will share insights into the area’s natural history and the formation of the Cascade volcanoes.

Underfoot, the trails wind through a lush, green landscape, allowing guests to fully enjoy the beauty of this pristine wilderness.

Winter Wildlife and Natural History

During the winter months, Mount Rainier’s diverse wildlife comes alive as animals adapt to the changing conditions.

Mount Rainier’s wildlife thrives during winter as animals adapt to the changing conditions.

Tour participants may spot a variety of creatures, including:

• Deer and elk foraging for food in the snowy landscapes

• Foxes hunting for small prey among the trees and underbrush

• Wintering birds like bald eagles, hawks, and owls soaring overhead

• Snowshoe hares blending seamlessly into the white backdrop with their winter coats

• Marmots and other small mammals scurrying between burrows and dens

The naturalist guide will share insights into the area’s natural history and the unique adaptations that allow these animals to thrive in the rugged, wintry environment.

Picnicking at Longmire

After exploring the winter wildlife and natural wonders of Mount Rainier, the tour takes a break for a picnic lunch at Longmire.

Guests enjoy a seasonal spread from a local female-owned catering partner, including warm soup, light breakfast pastries, and assorted snacks.

The picnic provides a chance to refuel and savor the serene surroundings of the historic Longmire area.

With its cozy lodges and proximity to hiking trails, Longmire offers a quintessential Mount Rainier experience.

The lunch break allows participants to recharge before the guided hiking portion of the tour.

Ask Away

Can We Visit Longmire Museum and Historic Structures During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a stop at Longmire where visitors can explore the historic Longmire museum and structures. The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.

Is There a Bathroom Break Planned During the Van Rides?

Yes, the tour includes a scheduled 30-minute break for coffee, tea, and local snacks. This break provides an opportunity for restroom access during the van rides to and from Mount Rainier National Park.

Can We Take Photographs and Videos During the Hike and Tour?

Participants are welcome to take photographs and videos during the hike and tour. However, they should avoid disrupting the group or the natural environment. Photography is permitted, but flash photography may not be allowed in certain areas.

What Happens in Case of Extreme Weather Conditions Like Heavy Snowfall?

In case of extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons. The company will notify participants and provide full refunds or rebookings if the tour can’t proceed as planned.

Do You Provide Hiking Poles or Walking Sticks for the Hiking Portion?

The tour provides hiking poles and walking sticks for the guided hiking portion. Participants can request these optional equipment to help with balance and stability on the scenic trails within Mount Rainier National Park.

Final Words

Enjoy the serene winter wonder of Mount Rainier on this captivating tour. Witness ancient forests, spot local wildlife, and savor a seasonal picnic lunch as you uncover the park’s natural history. With a small group size and expert guidance, this intimate adventure promises an unforgettable escape into the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

You can check availability for your dates here: