Last updated: July 13, 2022
Thing to Do
Try en plein air painting at Mount Rainier National Park
NPS/S.Redman
“En plein air” is French for outside. There is a long history of artists taking their equipment with them into an environment to paint the landscape as it really is. This art style remains a popular way to experience a natural area and to challenge yourself as an artist. The act of en plein air painting gives the artist a deep understanding of what they are seeing in front of them. The lighting and weather changes slightly from moment to moment in ways that a photographer might miss. Painting outside also lets you create a souvenir unique and personal to your visit.
If you are going to be painting in the park, remember to plan ahead. You are going out into an environment where it is difficult to go back into town to get supplies. Paints, brushes, canvass, water and easel all need to be packed ahead of time and brought from home. While light weight options exist, art supplies can be heavy and awkward so it is easiest to pick a spot you can drive to. Luckily the roads in Mount Rainier National Park were designed to be scenic. The overlooks and many of the pullouts at Mount Rainier National Park are excellent for painting. Pick a location with an established level surface, and out of the way of pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Expect the weather to change. One of the greatest challenges to painting outside is the lack of a roof over your head. Be prepared to get rained out, carry raingear and a way to quickly cover your work. More importantly artists should expect wind. Be able to weight down your supplies and affix your work to an easel to prevent it from blowing away. Keep carful track of small items and trash that might be easily forgotten while you are working.
Bring multiple containers for water. You can fill water at many of the visitor centers but you most likely will not have access to water at the overlook. Designate one of your containers for rinsing your brushes and be sure to pack that water out. Depending on what paint you are using the pigment could contain cadmium, lead, or just plain plastic. Dispose of it in a toilet, not on the side of the road.
En plein air is an exercise in taking time to really look at your surroundings, so try not to worry too much about skill level. Painting outside is as much about the experience as it is about the product. A crayon drawing of an overlook can be tied to just as many memories as a professional oil painting. Be kind to yourself and have fun.
If you are going to be painting in the park, remember to plan ahead. You are going out into an environment where it is difficult to go back into town to get supplies. Paints, brushes, canvass, water and easel all need to be packed ahead of time and brought from home. While light weight options exist, art supplies can be heavy and awkward so it is easiest to pick a spot you can drive to. Luckily the roads in Mount Rainier National Park were designed to be scenic. The overlooks and many of the pullouts at Mount Rainier National Park are excellent for painting. Pick a location with an established level surface, and out of the way of pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Expect the weather to change. One of the greatest challenges to painting outside is the lack of a roof over your head. Be prepared to get rained out, carry raingear and a way to quickly cover your work. More importantly artists should expect wind. Be able to weight down your supplies and affix your work to an easel to prevent it from blowing away. Keep carful track of small items and trash that might be easily forgotten while you are working.
Bring multiple containers for water. You can fill water at many of the visitor centers but you most likely will not have access to water at the overlook. Designate one of your containers for rinsing your brushes and be sure to pack that water out. Depending on what paint you are using the pigment could contain cadmium, lead, or just plain plastic. Dispose of it in a toilet, not on the side of the road.
En plein air is an exercise in taking time to really look at your surroundings, so try not to worry too much about skill level. Painting outside is as much about the experience as it is about the product. A crayon drawing of an overlook can be tied to just as many memories as a professional oil painting. Be kind to yourself and have fun.
Details
Activity
Arts and Culture
Age(s)
All ages, but minors should be with an adult parent or guardian
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Painting is possible year round, but winter conditions are potentially adverse and challenging.
Time of Day
Day
This activity is easiest to conduct during daylight hours.
Accessibility Information
Many of the park overlooks are wide, level, paved areas with accessible parking options. Restrooms and running water are uncommon at overlooks but might be available depending on the site. Some overlooks are gravel and may have abrupt road edges.