Thomas Bancroft
The volcano rose above the subalpine meadow, its size and grandeur more spectacular than I’d imagined. The glaciers flowed down from the summit. To the left rose Little Tahoma, and in the front were Steamboat Prowl and Burroughs. I looked up toward the summit, which was at least 8,000 feet above my location, and an incredible 14,410 feet above sea level, making it the highest peak in Washington. This was my first visit to Sunrise since moving from the East Coast. I knew immediately that Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) would be a place I’d return to often.
It has been ten years since that first visit to the volcano, and the landscape continues to send chills through my body. Goosebumps pop up, and my jaw drops as I stare.
Since settling in Seattle, I’ve visited the volcano as often as possible. But it’s never enough; the park holds a unique charm over me. After each visit, I return home refreshed and full of vigor for the coming week.
Hiking in nature and looking for plants and animals has always brought me joy. At Tahoma, too, one can explore the making of this planet and have a feel for time.
The volcano is young by geologic time, only half a million years old, while much of the surrounding Cascades is older. Still, the mountain has a special place in people’s hearts and has played a significant role in human history. Known by many names – Tahoma, Takhoma, Ta-co-bet, and Rainier – it continues to influence all who can see and visit it.
Naming is the first step in learning about places, plants, or animals. Poet and Native American, Robin Wall Kimmerer, said naming things shows respect and helps us develop a connection to the land and living things. The more we learn, the more we care, and we need more people to care if we will conserve this plant.
Eating lunch on Third Burrows in 2015, I wondered about Winthrop Glacier, Wallis Wall, Emmons Glacier, and Steamboat Prow. What were their stories? Now, with more knowledge, I need to go back and ponder some more.
The trail network at Mt. Rainier is spectacular. One can hike through giant old-growth trees, then across subalpine meadows filled with flowers, then into the alpine zone where the flowers differ. The spectacular diversity of flora and fauna stimulates the mind, and the sights and smells bringing a special kind of joy.
Then, there are all those vistas where one looks across rugged landscapes rich with history. As I’ve learned more about the history, culture, plants, and animals of this section of Washington, I continue to be amazed, trying to grasp everything. This place can’t help but bring a sense of awe to anyone who visits.
The subalpine meadow in full bloom near Naches Peak.
REGISTER FOR MT. RAINIER - A PLACE OF JOY, REVERENCE, & HUMILITY
Now is the time to share the awe that Tahoma inspires. This year, the Naturalist Committee is offering a course specific to Mount Rainier that will feed your sense of wonder by teaching you about Rainier's geology, ecosystems, plants, and animals. Through storytelling, we'll explore the eight wonders that Keltner discusses in his book, Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life, and expand our grasp of time.
Two versions of this course are available. Both versions include two lectures (the same lecture in each course, just two ways to register) to provide knowledge and suggestions for where to see what we discuss. One version also includes field trips planned for July and August. The field trip version is limited to 48 participants, allowing one field trip per person.
The lectures are virtual (Zoom) and will be held on February 19 and March 5, 2025 at 7pm. Course registration opens January 23 at 7am.
Tahoma looms over the Pacific Northwest, and she says, “Come sit with me a while.” Join us in the course to learn more about this jewel of our planet.
