Mount Rainier Wildflower Season 2010

Hey Guys,

I'm planning a wildflower trip to Mount Rainier NP this summer and I'm trying to figure out the best time to come this year. Based on the snowpack for April the snowpack is significantly less than it was last year. Do you think this year would be better to come for wildflowers in early-mid July or still end July - early August?

Thanks in advance for your input!

That snowpack data was as of April 1....we've gotten dumped on in the mountains since that time. The last figures I saw were a couple of days ago and we were a little ahead of average for snowpack at this time of year.

That being said anything can happen between now and summer...hard to predict at this time when peak wildflower season will be although early July isn't likely. I usually figure on the first week of August and most of the time that works out pretty well but it's always a bit unpredictable. Best to check back in another month for an update if possible.

Thanks for the information, Mark. I am hoping to get the plane tickets relatively soon before the prices increase so I don't know if I can wait a month. Knowing about the recent snow fall definitely helps rule out early July.

John, thr park service personnel @ Paradise can be quite helpful in these matters. You might give that a try as we get nearer the season.
Tim
Concrete, WA