Mount Rainier and Ashford Area Things to Do
Explore the gateway communities of Ashford, Elbe, Mineral, and more during your Mount Rainier National Park visit. There are exciting events for everyone in the small mountain towns. From lively music festivals to a steam locomotive train ride, there’s always something happening in the mountains!
Check back soon to plant your January 2027 getaway.
Check back soon to plant your February 2027 getaway.
Check back soon to plant your March 2027 getaway.
Easter Train
Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
April 3, 4 and 5, 2026
Hop aboard celebrate Easter with a train ride between Elbe and Mineral, Washington! Welcome spring with a delightful, family-friendly train ride as you travel through the foothills near Mount Rainier with views of the Nisqually River, forests, and (on a clear day) a snowy glimpse of Mount Rainier.
In addition to the scenic leisure train ride from the Elbe Depot, enjoy time off the train at the railroad’s Mineral site. Upon arrival, enjoy an exciting egg hunt, festive activities, photos with the Easter Bunny, and plenty of opportunities for family fun before returning to Elbe.
- April 3 ~ departures at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
- April 4 ~ departure at 4:00 PM
- April 5 ~ departures at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM
Spaces fill quickly for this popular event. Secure your tickets early and Reserve Your Seats for the Easter Bunny Express Today!
Fishing Derby
Mineral Lake
April 25 & 26, 2026
Join other anglers at Mineral Lake for one of the region’s most anticipated opening day traditions. The Annual Mineral Lake Fishing Derby brings together longtime locals, visiting anglers, and first-time participants for a weekend centered on fishing, community, and the simple thrill of the catch.
The Mineral Lake Lions Club and the Mineral community have hosted this beloved event for decades. As the lines and fishing boats launch, excitement builds throughout the lake. Who will land the biggest catch of the weekend?
Learn more about this action-packed weekend, and stay at Stone Creek Lodge to make the most of your experience!
Cider Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, May 9, 2026
6:00 PM
Introducing a hard cider lovers favorite new experience, Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Cider Trains! You will board the historic steam train for a summer evening ride through the foothills near Mount Rainier. Along the route, take in the forest scenery, river views, and step back in time as you re live railroad history.
Guests sample local Washington ciders from 3 cideries during this 2-hour event. In addition, the train stops in Mineral during the journey. At Mineral, guests spend time at the railroad museum’s outdoor event space. Here, you can enjoy light bites and live music. This is a relaxed, adults only experience designed for an easy night out. Learn more. The 2026 dates include:
- Saturday, May 5, 2026
- Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
Bear Camp at Northwest Trek
May 16 & 17, 2026
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Join keepers during Bear Camp weekend to learn more about camping safely with wildlife!
The stars of Bear Camp will be grizzlies Hawthorne and Huckleberry, and black bears Benton and Fern.
Bears will be showcased each day in keeper chats and feedings. Plus, don’t miss the incredibly popular campsite demonstration for the black bears. In between, all four bears will be their usual adorable selves: splashing in their pools, climbing logs, foraging, or just soaking up the sun.
There will also be art materials for the younger explorers and those young at heart.
Buy tickets in advance and get ready with this bear themed coloring page for this special weekend adventure.
Packwood Flea Market
May 22 – May 25
9:00 AM – Dusk (Monday – Noon)
On Memorial Day Weekend, the serene mountain town of Packwood transforms into a bustling hub, attracting many visitors. The market, sprawling over a mile, is a treasure trove of diverse offerings, from intriguing antiques that whisper tales of the past to exquisite artisan crafts that celebrate the creativity of the present.
if you can’t make it in spring, don’t worry—the Packwood Flea Market has you covered with a fall event on Labor Day Weekend, from September 14 – September 7, 2026. Learn more.
Whiskey Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, May 23, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard! Are you ready for the ultimate whiskey lover’s experience? Welcome aboard Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Whiskey Tasting Train!
Travel from Elbe to our museum in Mineral, where you’ll be welcomed by live music. Immerse yourself in rhythmic tunes and enjoy the trip highlight – samples of three carefully curated whiskeys from local distilleries, each with a distinct character and story. To accompany these delightful spirits, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheeses, crackers, and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. For those seeking an extra layer of excitement, specialty cocktails crafted with care are available for purchase. This event is about 2.5 hours in duration.
Purchase your Whiskey Tasting tickets in advance. The 2026 Whiskey Tasting Train dates include:
- Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
Monday, May 25, 2026
May 25 is one of nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information visit the National Park Service.
Rainier RAID – Adventure Race
June 5 – June 7, 2026
Rainier Raid is a 36-hour adventure race that challenges participants to mountaineer, bike, trek, canyon, and white water through the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. As a USARA and ARWS regional event, Rainier Raid attracts the best adventure racers from around the world, offering an unparalleled test of endurance, navigation, and teamwork. Will you be at the starting line in 2026?
If you looking for an adventure that’s challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable, join the 2026 Adventure Race. Learn more or register to test your endurance.
Cider Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, June 6, 2026
6:00 PM
Introducing a hard cider lovers favorite new experience, Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Cider Trains! You will board the historic steam train for a summer evening ride through the foothills near Mount Rainier. Along the route, take in the forest scenery, river views, and step back in time as you re live railroad history.
Guests sample local Washington ciders from 3 cideries during this 2-hour event. In addition, the train stops in Mineral during the journey. At Mineral, guests spend time at the railroad museum’s outdoor event space. Here, you can enjoy light bites and live music. This is a relaxed, adults only experience designed for an easy night out. Learnmore. The 2026 dates for this event include:
- Saturday, May 5, 2026
- Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
Celebrating PRIDE 🏳️🌈
at Northwest Trek
June 6 – 7, 2026
9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Celebrate Pride and our LGBTQ+ community at Northwest Trek! See our bobcats enjoy rainbow popsicles, raccoons unwrap and forage through Pride presents, and more. All weekend, animals will enjoy rainbow-themed enrichment (like rainbow ice treats and rainbow fruit skewers)! Many habitats will be decorated with more than just rainbows. Throughout the park, you will find colorful decorations and a photo op banner outside our Cheney Discovery Center.
Connect with our visiting partners, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Northwest Trek Zookeepers Association, to find ways to support your community.
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
Sunday, June 14, 2026
June 14 is one of nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Flag Day – Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Beer Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, June 20, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard a hop-tastic excursion – Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Beer Tasting Trains!
Travel from the Elbe, WA Depot to the museum in Mineral where you’ll be welcomed by live music, amazing artifacts from Washington State’s history and the most enjoyable beers from three small batch local breweries. To accompany these delightful brews, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheese, crackers and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. This event is just over 2 hours in duration.
The historic train set features an open air car, two historic Pullman passenger coaches, and the baggage car, outfitted as a gift shop and concession stand. Reserve your tickets today, seats sell out fast!
Excursion dates in 2026 include:
- Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Saturday, July 4, 2026
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
30th Annual Rod Knockers Car Show
Saturday, June 27, 2026
8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Start your engines and cruise into summer at one of Eatonville’s most beloved traditions! The Rod Knockers Car Show is back in 2026, bringing together chrome, classics, and car lovers from all over.
Whether you’re into hot rods, muscle machines, vintage restorations, or wild custom builds, there’s something here for everyone.
What to Expect:
🌭 Free hot dogs, chips & water
🎁 Goodie bags, door prizes & raffles
🎖️ 50 trophies are up for grabs
🎙️ On site DJ
It’s the perfect small-town Saturday—with killer cars, great company, and Mount Rainier in the background. Whether you’re showing off your ride or just soaking in the sights, this is a day you won’t want to miss.
Slug Fest at Northwest Trek
June 27 – 28, 2026
9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Come celebrate the weird and wonderful world of slugs with a full day of quirky fun, hands-on activities, and plenty of laughs at NW Trek. From human slug races and tentacle crafting to the always-entertaining Slug Olympics, there’s something for every curious (and slightly grossed-out) guest.
You can test your slug-spotting skills, show off your trivia knowledge, and even graduate from Slug School. Don’t forget to complete your Slug Fest Passport—once it’s full, you’ll get a chance to spin the prize wheel.
And it’s not just fun and games. You’ll learn why banana slugs and their slippery friends are forest heroes, quietly keeping the Northwest lush and thriving by turning dead leaves into nutrients.
Whether you’re five or ninety-five, if you’re even a little bit curious about slugs, this is your kind of festival.
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
July 3, 4 and 5, 2026
The Independence Day Weekend provides three of the nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Beer Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, July 4, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard a hop-tastic excursion – Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Beer Tasting Trains!
Travel from the Elbe, WA Depot to the museum in Mineral where you’ll be welcomed by live music, amazing artifacts from Washington State’s history and the most enjoyable beers from three small batch local breweries. To accompany these delightful brews, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheese, crackers and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. This event is just over 2 hours in duration.
The historic train set features an open air car, two historic Pullman passenger coaches, and the baggage car, outfitted as a gift shop and concession stand. Reserve your tickets today, seats sell out fast!
Excursion dates in 2026 include:
- Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Saturday, July 4, 2026
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
Whiskey Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, July 18, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard! Are you ready for the ultimate whiskey lover’s experience? Welcome aboard Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Whiskey Tasting Train!
Travel from Elbe to our museum in Mineral, where you’ll be welcomed by live music. Immerse yourself in rhythmic tunes and enjoy the trip highlight – samples of three carefully curated whiskeys from local distilleries, each with a distinct character and story. To accompany these delightful spirits, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheeses, crackers, and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. For those seeking an extra layer of excitement, specialty cocktails crafted with care are available for purchase. This event is about 2.5 hours in duration.
Purchase your Whiskey Tasting tickets in advance. The 2026 Whiskey Tasting Train dates include:
- Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Mt. Rainier Fundraising Climb
July 20 – 23, 2026
The Mount Rainier Fundraising Climb is an opportunity to experience one of the most exciting and physically challenging climbs in the United States.
Participants will not only climb the mountain but also do so as part of a team united around a joint mission. This mission is an extraordinary adventure on Mount Rainier with like-minded individuals, all while contributing to The Juniper Fund, which supports families who have lost loved ones while working for expeditions in the Himalayas.
Although previous experience is not required, participants should be physically active and able to participate in a regular workout routine.
The event is guided by some of the most experienced Himalayan guides working on Mount Rainier.
Eatonville Arts and Music Festival
July 31, 2026 – August 2, 2026
The annual Eatonville Lions Club Arts Festival, a celebration of art, culture, and community, offers fine arts and handcrafted items, food, drink, and live entertainment for the whole family in the scenic foothills of Mt. Rainier. Join nationwide artisans, top-notch live entertainment, great food, and the ever-popular beer garden for a day filled with joy, laughter, and art.
Proceeds from the Eatonville Arts Festival help the Lions Club provide eyeglasses and hearing aids for those who cannot afford them and allow donations to other worthy causes.
Eatonville Arts & Music Festival
July 31, 2026 – August 2, 2026
The annual Eatonville Lions Club Arts Festival, a celebration of art, culture, and community, offers fine arts and handcrafted items, food, drink, and live entertainment for the whole family in the scenic foothills of Mt. Rainier. Join nationwide artisans, top-notch live entertainment, great food, and the ever-popular beer garden for a day filled with joy, laughter, and art.
Proceeds from the Eatonville Arts Festival help the Lions Club provide eyeglasses and hearing aids for those who cannot afford them and allow donations to other worthy causes.
2026 Rainier Music Festival
Ashford County Park
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Times to be announced
The Rainier Music Festival features multiple genres and top Pacific Northwest artists. The park setting offers lawn seating tall trees and a relaxed foothill atmosphere minutes from the Nisqually Entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. The 2026 festival takes place on Saturday August 1, 2026, at Ashford County Park.
Curious what to expect? How about…
- a relaxed atmosphere for music lovers of any age
- a full day of music
- many genres of music
- Pacific Northwest artists
- a forested outdoor amphitheater (bring a blanket)
- food and beverage vendors
Additional details and times can be found on the organizers Facebook page.
Beer Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, August 1, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard a hop-tastic excursion – Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Beer Tasting Trains!
Travel from the Elbe, WA Depot to the museum in Mineral where you’ll be welcomed by live music, amazing artifacts from Washington State’s history and the most enjoyable beers from three small batch local breweries. To accompany these delightful brews, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheese, crackers and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. This event is just over 2 hours in duration.
The historic train set features an open air car, two historic Pullman passenger coaches, and the baggage car, outfitted as a gift shop and concession stand. Reserve your tickets today, seats sell out fast!
Excursion dates in 2026 include:
- Saturday, June 20, 2026
- Saturday, July 4, 2026
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
Whiskey Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, August 15, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard! Are you ready for the ultimate whiskey lover’s experience? Welcome aboard Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Whiskey Tasting Train!
Travel from Elbe to our museum in Mineral, where you’ll be welcomed by live music. Immerse yourself in rhythmic tunes and enjoy the trip highlight – samples of three carefully curated whiskeys from local distilleries, each with a distinct character and story. To accompany these delightful spirits, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheeses, crackers, and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. For those seeking an extra layer of excitement, specialty cocktails crafted with care are available for purchase. This event is about 2.5 hours in duration.
Purchase your Whiskey Tasting tickets in advance. The 2026 Whiskey Tasting Train dates include:
- Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Morton Loggers Jubilee
2nd Weekend of August 2026
The Loggers’ Jubilee in the nearby town of Morton is a fabulous show with some of the top competitors in our country, guaranteed to entertain the whole family. Some competitive events include the axe throw, choker setting, log rolling, single and double bucking, stock and hot saw, springboard chop, speed climbing, tree topping, vertical and horizontal chop, and many more. Remember the lawnmower races, Jubilee Bed Races, Jubilee Run, and Fleamarket. Visit their website for a full schedule of events like no other!
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
August 25, 2026
The Independence Day Weekend provides three of the nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Cider Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, August 29, 2026
6:00 PM
Introducing a hard cider lovers favorite new experience, Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Cider Trains! You will board the historic steam train for a summer evening ride through the foothills near Mount Rainier. Along the route, take in the forest scenery, river views, and step back in time as you re live railroad history.
Guests sample local Washington ciders from 3 cideries during this 2-hour event. In addition, the train stops in Mineral during the journey. At Mineral, guests spend time at the railroad museum’s outdoor event space. Here, you can enjoy light bites and live music. This is a relaxed, adults only experience designed for an easy night out. Learnmore. The 2026 dates for this event include:
- Saturday, May 5, 2026
- Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
Packwood Fleamarket
September 4 – 7, 2026
9:00 AM – Dusk
(Monday 9:00 – Noon)
On Labor Day Weekend, the serene mountain town of Packwood welcomes the return of its second Flea Market of the year. The market, sprawling over a mile, is a treasure trove of diverse offerings, from intriguing antiques that whisper tales of the past to exquisite artisan crafts that celebrate the creativity of the present. Save the date for the Fall Packwood Flea Market, a must-visit event from September 4th through September 7th. And if you can’t make it in the fall, don’t worry—the Packwood Flea Market will return in 2027 for a Memorial Day Weekend event. Learn more.
Feeding Frenzy
at Northwest Trek
September 5 – 7, 2026
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
What’s your favorite food? For the animals of Northwest Trek it varies. For the golden eagles, it’s meatballs. For the wolf, it’s steak. And for barn owls, it’s mice. Watch animals enjoy their favorite foods, and participate in keeper chats throughout the weekend.
The keepers get creative in presenting treats and enrichments for the animals getting them curious and encouraging natural behaviors – like finding food and using their brains. Check in with the naturalists throughout the day for the chance to learn more about how the dedicated keepers care for the animals.
Buy tickets in advance and let the eating begin!
Whiskey Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, September 12, 2026
6:00 PM
All Aboard! Are you ready for the ultimate whiskey lover’s experience? Welcome aboard Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Whiskey Tasting Train!
Travel from Elbe to our museum in Mineral, where you’ll be welcomed by live music. Immerse yourself in rhythmic tunes and enjoy the trip highlight – samples of three carefully curated whiskeys from local distilleries, each with a distinct character and story. To accompany these delightful spirits, indulge in an assortment of delectable cheeses, crackers, and other snacks, selected to complement the experience. For those seeking an extra layer of excitement, specialty cocktails crafted with care are available for purchase. This event is about 2.5 hours in duration.
Purchase your Whiskey Tasting tickets in advance. The 2026 Whiskey Tasting Train dates include:
- Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
Thursday, September 17, 2026
Thursday, September 17, 2026 is Constitution Day and also of the nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Cider Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
Saturday, September 26, 2026
6:00 PM
Introducing a hard cider lovers favorite new experience, Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Cider Trains! You will board the historic steam train for a summer evening ride through the foothills near Mount Rainier. Along the route, take in the forest scenery, river views, and step back in time as you re live railroad history.
Guests sample local Washington ciders from 3 cideries during this 2-hour event. In addition, the train stops in Mineral during the journey. At Mineral, guests spend time at the railroad museum’s outdoor event space. Here, you can enjoy light bites and live music. This is a relaxed, adults only experience designed for an easy night out. Learnmore. The 2026 dates for this event include:
- Saturday, May 5, 2026
- Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
Pumpkin Chomp & Stomp
at NorthWest Trek
October 3 & 4, 2026
9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Experience fall fun at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park as animals get into the autumn spirit with pumpkins to chomp, stomp, and play with. From grizzlies smashing gourds to otters turning them into toys, enjoy unique animal enrichments that highlight natural behaviors.
The event also features seasonal crafts, photo opportunities, and keeper chats throughout the weekend—perfect for all ages.
Stay a few nights to explore nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Gifford Pinchot
Fungi Festival, Packwood WA
October 9 – 11, 2026
Packwood, WA
Celebrate the wonders of fungi with workshops, guided foraging walks led by skilled experts to identify edible mushrooms, art, music, and mushroom-inspired cuisine in the heart of Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Perfect for mushroom lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds of all ages. Download a full schedule of events.
Extend your experience by staying at Stone Creek Lodge and explore the rich fungi diversity of the Sawtooth Region of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Registration is now open at the festival website.
Family Halloween Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
October 17 & 18, 2026
10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Join the Halloween fun and excitement aboard the Family Halloween Trains on October 17 & 18, 2026!
Get into the Halloween spirit by wearing your favorite costume and embarking on a journey from Elbe to the museum in Mineral. Upon arrival, the real fun begins with trick-or-treating in the logging camp. Enjoy other Halloween activities like a hay ride and the chance to handpick your very own pumpkin from the patch! Reserve your tickets here.
Don’t let the fun end with the train ride! Extend your adventure and make it a memorable getaway. Stay a few nights to explore nearby Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Hoot ‘N’ Howl
at NorthWest Trek
October 16 & 17, 2026
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Get spooky wild! Celebrate Halloween with a wild Northwest twist at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. Explore the park at twilight with glowing lights, trick-or-treat stations, and fun games for all ages. Meet nocturnal animals during special Keeper Chats and enjoy hands-on activities like Freaky Food Science and a Halloween-themed Kids’ Trek play area. Costumes encouraged!
Stay the night and explore nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Family Halloween Train
at Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
October 24 & 25, 2026
10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Join the Halloween fun and excitement aboard the Family Halloween Trains on October 24 & 25, 2026!
Get into the Halloween spirit by wearing your favorite costume and embarking on a journey from Elbe to the museum in Mineral. Upon arrival, the real fun begins with trick-or-treating in the logging camp. Enjoy other Halloween activities like a hay ride and the chance to handpick your very own pumpkin from the patch! Reserve your tickets here.
Don’t let the fun end with the train ride! Extend your adventure and make it a memorable getaway. Stay a few nights to explore nearby Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Hoot ‘N’ Howl
at NorthWest Trek
October 23 & 24, 2026
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Get spooky wild! Celebrate Halloween with a wild Northwest twist at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. Explore the park at twilight with glowing lights, trick-or-treat stations, and fun games for all ages. Meet nocturnal animals during special Keeper Chats and enjoy hands-on activities like Freaky Food Science and a Halloween-themed Kids’ Trek play area. Costumes encouraged!
Stay the night and explore nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 is President Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday and also of the nine annual Fee-Free Days in 2026. Free Day is an incredible opportunity for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. The 2026 Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Hoot ‘N’ Howl
at NorthWest Trek
October 30, 2026
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Get spooky wild! Celebrate Halloween with a wild Northwest twist at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. Explore the park at twilight with glowing lights, trick-or-treat stations, and fun games for all ages. Meet nocturnal animals during special Keeper Chats and enjoy hands-on activities like Freaky Food Science and a Halloween-themed Kids’ Trek play area. Costumes encouraged!
Stay the night and explore nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount Rainier National Park. Discover perfect family-friendly lodging at Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier.
Fee Free Day
Mt. Rainier National Park
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
NPS Photo
Wednesday, November 11, 2026, is one of the nine and final Fee-Free Day in 2026 in honor of Veterans Day. Experience the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park, and consider a hike up the West Side Road to the Marine Memorial.
Established by the National Park Service, these designated days provide visitors free access to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. Other Fee Free Days include:
- May 25: Memorial Day
- June 14: Flag Day
- July 3, 4 and 5: Independence Day Weekend
- August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Services
- September 17: Constitution Day
- October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
- November 11: Veterans Day
For more information on Fees and Passes, visit the National Park Service.
Winter Wildland Wonderland
at Northwest Trek
December 26 – 27, 2026
9:30 Am – 3:00 PM
Breathe in the crisp mountain air and watch in delight as the animals Northwest Trek enjoy holiday-themed treats and enrichments. Stroll the paths laced with winter magic and decorations.
The animals can receive a wide variety of enrichment like cardboard gingerbread houses and paper chains. All the enrichments are thoughtfully crafted by staff, are holiday-themed, and filled with meatballs, veggies, chopped fruit, or other yummy items to attract skunks, lynx, beavers, and others to explore, investigate, and to encourage them to use their natural behaviors.
Purchase your tickets for this holiday themed family event.