Fumarole — Not a Soaking Spring
Mt Rainier Fumaroles is a fumarole, not a traditional hot spring. These geothermal features can be extremely dangerous — boiling water, toxic gases, and unstable ground are common hazards. Do not attempt to soak.
File:Canada Jay at Mount Rainier.png — cc by 4.0
Mount Rainier fumaroles reach 162 degrees at 14,217 feet elevation, emerging 154.8 degrees above ambient at Washington's highest point. These geothermal features sit 70.6 meters from the Disappointment Cleaver Route within Mount Rainier National Park, where volcanic heat melts ice caves and steam vents in the summit crater.
The summit occupies pure alpine terrain above 14,000 feet, surrounded by the mountain's 26 named glaciers. Annual precipitation reaches 95.3 inches with 418.5 inches of snowfall, though much accumulates as ice rather than melting. Average air temperature is 7.2 degrees. The crater rim offers 360-degree views across the Cascades, Puget Sound, and eastern Washington.
History of Mt Rainier Fumaroles
Rainier holds spiritual significance for the Puyallup, Nisqually, and other Coast Salish peoples who knew the mountain as Tahoma or Tacoma. Summit fumaroles indicate ongoing volcanic activity beneath the heavily glaciated stratovolcano. The Disappointment Cleaver route became the standard climbing route after Hazard Stevens and P.B. Van Trump completed the first recorded summit in 1870.
Reaching the fumaroles requires technical mountaineering experience, glacier travel skills, and climbing permits from Mount Rainier National Park. Most attempts occur June through September. Climbers typically spend one or two nights ascending from Paradise at 5,400 feet. Altitude, crevasses, rockfall, and weather create serious hazards. Cougar Rock Campground lies 9.8 kilometers from Paradise.
Is Mt Rainier Fumaroles worth visiting?
Best for
- Observing powerful hot springs
- Easy day trips
- Overnight camping trips
- Winter soaking with dramatic temperature contrast
Mt Rainier Fumaroles is well suited for observing powerful hot springs and easy day trips.
Annual Precip: 95.3 in
Annual Snow: 418.5 in
February
Air -6°F · Water 162°F · +168° contrast
December
Air -5°F · Water 162°F · +167° contrast
January
Air -4°F · Water 162°F · +166° contrast
February offers 32°F more contrast than August
Overview
Cougar Rock Campground, on the southwest side of Mt. Rainier National Park, is conveniently located near Paradise. Individual campsites are reservable on this page. Group campsite reservations can be made via Cougar Rock Group Campground.
Paradise is the most popular destination in the park, with a lodge and visitor center, many miles of hiking trails and a commanding view of the mountain-the highest in the state and Cascade range. The main attraction at Mount Rainier National Park...
Reserve on Recreation.gov →
Swimsuit & towel
Water bottle
Stay hydrated, especially in hot water
Warm layers
Cold air before and after soaking
Camping gear
Nearby camping at Cougar Rock Campground
Trash bag
Pack out what you pack in
Water shoes
Hot ground near source
USGS Quad: (MT. RAINIER WEST 7.5) · NOAA: 1.0 · AMS Map: YAKIMA
What is the water temperature at Mt Rainier Fumaroles?
Mt Rainier Fumaroles has a water temperature of 162°F (72°C). This is considered a hot spring, well above body temperature.
Where is Mt Rainier Fumaroles located?
Mt Rainier Fumaroles is located in Pierce County, Washington at 14,217 feet elevation, near Buckley. Coordinates: 46.8520°N, 121.7580°W.
How do I get to Mt Rainier Fumaroles?
Mt Rainier Fumaroles has Roadside road access, with the nearest road being Disappointment Cleaver Route (232 ft from the road).
Is Mt Rainier Fumaroles free to visit?
Mt Rainier Fumaroles has Open access. It is managed by National Park Service.
Can I camp near Mt Rainier Fumaroles?
Yes, Cougar Rock Campground is located nearby (6.1 miles away).
Is it safe to soak at Mt Rainier Fumaroles?
The water at Mt Rainier Fumaroles reaches 162°F, which can cause severe burns. Do not enter the source pool directly — look for cooled side pools or downstream areas where the water has cooled to a safe temperature. Always tell someone your plans before visiting remote hot springs.
Is Mt Rainier Fumaroles crowded?
Mt Rainier Fumaroles is accessible from a paved road, making it easy to reach. Weekends and holidays may be busier — consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What should I bring to Mt Rainier Fumaroles?
Essentials for Mt Rainier Fumaroles: swimsuit, towel, water bottle, warm layers for before and after soaking, camping gear, a trash bag to pack out what you pack in. The water is over 110°F — test the temperature before entering and watch for scalding near the source.