Mount Rainier, an iconic peak in Washington State, is experiencing significant changes due to climate change. Glaciers are retreating at an accelerating rate, with a 42% decline in glacierized area since 1896. This has profound impacts on the mountain’s ecosystems, affecting wildlife habitats and species distributions. The warming trend is altering seasonal patterns, forcing flora … Read more
Mount Rainier’s climate is characterized by cool, wet winters and mild, dry summers. The mountain’s elevation, latitude, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean significantly influence its weather patterns. With temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to mild in summer, Mount Rainier experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year, impacting visitor activities and trail accessibility. … Read more
Mount Rainier, an iconic stratovolcano in Washington State, is often a subject of geological curiosity. While it’s an active volcano with impressive geothermal features, Mount Rainier is not classified as a hot spot. Instead, it’s part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc, formed by the subduction of the Pacific plate under the North American plate. This … Read more