Seventh in a series.

Mount Rainier is the volcanic sleeping giant giving the Seattle skyline its ominous and picturesque backdrop. At 14,410 this volcanic peak is the centerpiece of a 369-square-mile national park located in Washington State’s Cascade Mountains.

Mount Rainier National Park draws more than 1.8 million people a year to its glacial-capped peaks, adventurous trails and dynamic display of wildlife and nature. The area is famous for the difficult climb up Mount Rainier, which includes traversing the largest glaciers in the lower 48 states. Between 8,000 and 14,000 people attempt the climb each year. Only half make it to the top, according to the National Park Service.

The park is also a favorite for back country hikers and skiers, photographers, campers and other outdoor activities, including the park’s Wonderland Trial.

Mount Rainier is considered an active volcano. The last reported eruptions were in the 1800s. The last major volcanic collapse was more than 5,000 years ago.