We are family of four with 9 yo and 13 yo kids. We did the skyline trail clockwise to panorama point then back by golden gate trail. Was expecting complaints from miss9 but both kids loved it all. It was cold and it started snowing but that added to the fun. The higher elevations had little to see but fog but was real fun. Fall colours in the golden gate return trail were amazing. best day of our 3 week holiday.

What an experience it was to hike the Skyline Trail...in the snow!! We were there just a few days after Rainier received an early snowfall of 6-8 inches of snow and it gave a totally different experience to the park than we had expected. The lower trail was still a bit snowy/icy and the paved part was rather slick in the morning. Once we got out into the hard-packed trail, it was better...but we did hike through the snow and ice. In the afternoons, it was slushy. But, we decided this was just part of our experience and pushed forward. Due to the weather, we did the Skyline in two parts. The first day we went up to Alta Vista, then picked up the Skyline Trail and went over Panorama Point (which has a restroom) around to Pebble Creek and came down the Golden Gate Trail back to the visitor's center. That took us 3-4 hours in the snow. Then, the next day, we came back up to Paradise and it was beautiful weather. So, we took off for Myrtle Falls then picked up the Skyline Trail in a counter clockwise direction , out to Paradise Glacier Trail, and looped back down Golden Gate. Again, about a 3-4 hour trek but we had beautiful view. While the snow made the hike a bit more challenging, it gave it a whole different "look" than what we had anticipated. It was great fun!
There are lots of places on this trail to stop and sit on a large rock, so take lots of water, snack bars and your camera. Both days, we ended up getting rained on a bit...even though it looked clear when we started. So...heed the warning that the weather can change quickly. And, make sure you have rain gear along. Hiking shoes are a must...no one could have done this in tennis shoes on the snow and ice when we were there.
And, we saw the snow boarders and ski folks enjoying the snow in several areas. It was fun to watch.
Get maps from the park rangers and put them in to a large Ziplock bag. Great way to protect them and keep them clean and dry.

Mount Rainier is pretty accessible from the Seattle area. If the conditions are good, which is rare, you can see it from town. Although it appears to be a stand alone mountain, there is tons of area all around that is full of outdoor adventure. The entire area is full of wonderful natural spaces.
The Skyline Trail is like lots of other trails in national parks with a reputation. It is usually popular for a reason. This is no different. The trail is not that hard if you are young or in fairly good shape. Don't start if you cannot hike for 3 to 4 hours with elevation change. Start from the visitor's center counter clockwise. This will get you going with some waterfalls, open meadows and glimpses of the mountain. If possible, pick a day with only a few clouds and the top of the mountain may not even be visible. Once you start the curve, things open up and views in all directions are spectacular. Panorama Point is a popular spot but there are many more that are as good or better. Get a head start early and out in front of the crowds for a more enjoyable experience. If you are super fit, the weather is right, you have the right equipment and you get advance permission, you could commit to the John Muir camp just below the summit. Check with the ranger station for details. Otherwise, be prepared for one of the best hikes in the Northwest.