I've been trying to do my research on the Seattle area, and this forum has been great.

I'm thinking that going to Mt. Ranier is something I should do (I won't be doing museums in Seattle since I live in a large city with those kind of to do's). I can do only one overnight at best. Would I rent a car from Seattle? Would I take a tour with Gray Lines for the day? I'll be traveling with 3 weeks luggage (business in different climates). Maybe we can stop at a winery along the route too?

Thank you.

JR

I'd rent a car. Staying as long as you like, being able to stop at the scenic vistas, going to which ever area of the mountain you'd like-I think this would be much better than doing a tour.

The wineries near Seattle are to the northeast in Woodinville, whereas Rainier is southeast and really does take a full day. Perhaps you could see a winery the following morning if you really wanted to?

If you like wineries, you might want to consider an overnight we enjoy.

We spend the afternoon at wineries in the Yakima Valley, stay in Yakima for the night (Oxford Suites on the Yakima River and dinner at Cafe Melange), and rise early the next day to drive to Sunrise at Mt. Rainier via Chinook Pass (thus beating the crowds). If we have the energy, we return to Seattle via Paradise--otherwise, we take the direct route home.

I reserved a car so able to be a bit more flexible.

I am going to look into visiting Yakima as well. Gosh, I'd love to spend a week in that area, but alas will need to get back home to work.

JR.

I took the Grayline tour, and it was excellent. Gorgeous views and walking on the glacier! No fear of getting lost on those mountain roads.

Wondering what the driving is like near Mt. Rainier. I've driven in Switzerland and Germany, and lately I'm a bit squimish when there is no guard rail and high on a mountain side narrow road.

Thanks. JR

It is perfectly safe.

THe drive is not scary, nor is their any danger of getting lost, as there is only one paved highway that circles the mountain. The worst thing that will happen is that you will get stuck behind a giant, slow moving RV or tour bus.