Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous USA, spawning six major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. On the drive from Portland, organizers will give brief talks about the history and setting of Mount Rainier National Park (founded in 1899, prior to the establishment of the National Park Service), highlight key ecological research and long-term monitoring programs, and discuss how researchers can initiate new projects. We will travel to the eastside of the park and make two stops. The first will include a short hike through an ancient forest (Grove of the Patriarchs) then we will spend the afternoon discussing research focused on climate change while hiking in subalpine meadows with spectacular views of the mountain and glaciers (Sunrise). At an elevation of 6,400 feet, Sunrise is the highest point that can be reached by vehicle at Mount Rainier National Park. On clear summer days, Sunrise provides breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, Emmons glacier, vibrant wildflower meadows, butterflies, songbirds, amphibians, and subalpine mammals. Sunrise Point offers nearly 360-degree views of the surrounding valleys, Mount Rainier, and other volcanoes in the Cascade Range such as Mount Adams and Mount St Helens. The Sunrise Visitor Center offers exhibits, guided interpretive programs, book sales, and a picnic area. There is a gift shop available at the Sunrise Day Lodge.