2 Best Restaurants in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Tall windows in this historic timber lodge provide terrific views of Rainier, and the warm glow of native wood permeates the large dining room, where hearty Pacific Northwest fare is served. The lunch menu is simple and healthy—burgers, sandwiches, salads, and the like; for dinner, the seasonal menu might include wild salmon, trout, red-wine braised short rib, and one or two meatless entrées. There's also a café in the inn that serves lighter fare all day.

On top of Crystal Mountain at 6,872 feet is Washington's highest-elevation restaurant with stunning views of the northeastern face of Mt. Rainier. The Summit House is a popular stop for skiers, hikers, and summer tourists, with a menu featuring Northwest cuisine, including wild Pacific cod fish-and-chips in summer (halibut in winter), elk and bison chili, burgers, and huckleberry ice cream. Sit inside to stay warm by the fireplace, or sit outside on the patio and watch chipmunks run along the nearby rocks. The restaurant is reached by riding the scenic gondola from the base of the mountain; note that gondola tickets ($44 for adults; purchase in advance to save $9) must be purchased separately. There are no reservations, so there can be a wait.

On a clear day, photographers will find plenty of vantage points to capture Mt. Rainier (as well as Mt. Adams in the background). It's an epic view that still awes people who've seen it hundreds of times.