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Visit Rainier for brunch, sights, smells
Last updated: June 8th, 2009 12:17 AM (PDT)

What: Sunday brunch.

Where: Paradise Inn at Mount Rainier National Park.

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday and every Sunday through Sept. 27.

Person interviewed: David Wilde, managing director of Guest Services Inc.

The menu: Things will be pretty similar to last year. There will be a carving station with roast beef and roast turkey, fresh fruits and an elaborate dessert table.

Prices: We dropped prices for this year. For instance, we dropped the price for adults by $6. With the economy the way it is and people looking for a value, we thought that would be a good price point. Prices are: adults $21.95, seniors $18.95 and children 12 or younger $12.95.

Why a buffet: We have done the Sunday brunch for years and years. We’ve really tried to make it a signature type of event on a weekly basis. Starting in 2002, we really tried to raise the level of the buffet. A lot of the items are our own signature items.

What is your favorite item: I love our cinnamon rolls.

Why should folks make the two-hour drive from Tacoma: For any other reason they come to Mount Rainier. It’s really the glorious setting. Brunch is a great time to do the park. You can take a hike early and then come in for a leisurely brunch.

What makes the locale special: It’s pretty spectacular, especially when you have the wildflowers blossoming in all their colors out your window. Also, there is a certain smell of being in the park, it’s so aromatic. It’s just a whole different world.

Of note: Entrance to the park is $15 per vehicle or by various annual park passes.

Information: www.guestservices.com/rainier

Jeffrey P. Mayor, The News Tribune

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