In 1948, the Whittaker twins, Jim and Lou, began mountain rescue work in the Cascades of Washington state.  By 1950 they were guides on Mt. Rainier.  Two years later, they became instructors for the army’s renowned 10th Mountain Division, which produced many of America’s greatest climbers.

Even in those early days, the Whittaker family was deeply involved in outdoor retail. In 1954, both twins worked in ski and sporting goods stores. A year later Jim, along with Lloyd Anderson, opened Recreational Equipment Cooperative, now known as REI, which Jim gradually built into America's largest outdoor specialty retailer. Along the way, he also became the first American to summit Mt. Everest (1963) and an advisor and spokesperson for Vibram Rubber Company, whose lug soles continue to revolutionize climbing footwear. In 1990, Jim led the successful Mt. Everest International Peace Climb, comprised of mountaineers from China, Russia and the U.S.

Local Art Gallery ~ NW Art Museum ~ Books ~History

Located on the historic Mountain Highway near the Nisqually entrance to Mount Rainier National Park

Professional Artist, known for her “soft touch” in pastel portraits of animals and people.   Portrait Artist at Western Washington State Fair in Puyallup, Washington for 8 years.   Traveled to National Western Art Shows, numerous writeups and magazines.   In Art Collections World Wide.

Secretarial work for Sea-Tac Airport and FAA (first secretary for Chief of Northwest  Region Air Transportation Security Office) main job to catch hijackers.    Bought old house and fixed up to be Painters Art Gallery and Bead Shop.     Same location for 35 years.

Pictures of my beadwork can be seen on my facebook page.      I have odd hours, please call ahead 360 569 2644 so i will be here

 With the establishment of Mount Rainier National Park in 1899, Longmire became park headquarters. 

Has a historic Inn, year-round restaurant, gift shop.

Multiple trail heads, great for hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing

 Paradise is famous for its glorious views and wildflower meadows. When James Longmire's daughter-in-law, Martha, first saw this site, she exclaimed, "Oh, what a paradise!" The park's main visitor center, the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, is located in the upper parking area. Paradise is also the primary winter-use area in the park, receiving on average 640 inches (53.6 feet/16.2 meters) of snow a year. 

Has a historic inn, restaurant (May-September), snack bar, gift shop.  The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center offers hands on exhibits, history of Mt. Rainier National Park and visitor information.

Multiple trail heads, great for hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing

 When you first glimpse Dan Klennert’s Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park on your way to Mount Rainier National Park, you might just brake to a stop. And if you don’t, we guarantee you will want to when the next opportunity arises. 

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad is back! Our nonprofit is bringing back the tradition of unforgettable steam train excursions, through the heart of Washington State!

Take a step back in time and ride on a vintage train, pulled by a steam locomotive through the breathtakingly beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape. With stunning views of mountains, farmland, and surrounding forests, this is a journey that you’ll never forget.

Book your tickets now and be one of the first to experience the reopening of this iconic railroad. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make unforgettable memories with your family and friends

Come enjoy our Beautiful Mountain Trails, Nisqually River ride or maybe a Romantic Sunset Ride. We also offer gift certificates, group rides and private rides and we can even accommodate larger groups such as birthday parties, weddings, anniversaries, church functions, family gatherings, and cook outs. Plus, we have a fire pit and picnic tables for our guests to use!