Mount Rainier is a city of contrasts. Known as a busy urban gateway to the nation’s capital, it is also known for its intimate, tree-shaded neighborhoods. Mount Rainier’s greatest asset—the source of its vibrant community life—is its ability to nurture and sustain a variety of interests.
Old and new, progressive and conservative, Bible-belt fundamentalists, rock-ribbed traditionalists, activists, recluses, empty nesters, and young families: all are at home in Mount Rainier. Patterns of civic behavior established early in the city’s 100-year history laid a foundation of tolerance that persists to this day.