Beat the heat with fee-free weekends at Mt. Rainier

July 2, 4:54 PMSeattle Budget Travels ExaminerRachelle Reitz

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Photo: Rachelle Reitz

Where's the perfect place to go on a hot, hot western Washington day? Take a drive to Mt. Rainier.

And now, for the economy-minded, Mt. Rainier and other national parks are offering fee-free weekends. July 18-19 and August 15-16, 2009 will be free, as well as dates in the fall.

If you have time for a short vacation, check out the lodging specials on the Mount Rainier Visitor Association website. Most require a stay of three or four nights in order to get a discounted rate. The site lists a multitude of lodging options for the rugged and less-rugged traveler.

There are dining options in smaller towns outside the park, as well as a few restaurants and food stands in the park. But, there is nothing better than packing your own lunch and enjoying the view at one of the park's many picnic sites.

So pack the cooler, pull out the hiking boots, and leave the heat behind.