Mount Rainier National Park was established over 100 years ago and encompasses 235,625 acres, ranging in elevation from 1,610' to 14,410' above sea level. Mount Rainier is actually an active volcano encased in over 35 square miles of snow and ice, surrounded by old growth forest and stunning wildflower meadows. Mount Rainier National Park is also rich in cultural resources and is designated a National Historic Landmark District as an outstanding example of early park planning and NPS rustic architecture.