Small Travelers Have Big Plans in Pierce County

TACOMA, Wash., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The family trip has a new planning committee, and its members would like to discuss trains, farm animals and dessert. Visit Tacoma-Pierce County's "3 Feet High" itinerary invites families to experience fall from a child's perspective, with three days of hands-on adventures stretching from the valley's farms to the forests around Mount Rainier.

Written with young travelers in mind, the route follows the things that make children lean forward, ask questions and forget to ask how much longer. There are animals to feed, corn mazes to navigate and apples to launch from cannons. A pumpkin patch becomes a place to play, and a lakeshore leaves plenty of room for an elaborate pirate story.

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and Mount Rainier National Park provide the big backdrops. A steam train turns transportation into the attraction, while the park's historic Longmire area offers a closer look at the mountain's natural and human history. Between those anchors, hands-on farm activities and small-town meals keep the experience approachable for younger explorers.

"Children are very good at noticing when a trip gets interesting," said Matt Wakefield, Chief Marketing and Data Officer for Visit Tacoma-Pierce County. "A train whistle, a goat eating out of your hand, a cabin that feels like a hideout—that's a pretty strong itinerary. We're giving families a way to follow that curiosity and enjoy being out together."

Overnight options make bedtime part of the story, with cabins and converted railroad cabooses extending the sense of adventure. Diners, casual restaurants and stops for pie and ice cream provide places to regroup. Adults get mountain scenery and local coffee; children get compelling reasons to approve the next stop.

The itinerary connects Sumner, Spanaway, Eatonville, Elbe and Ashford, giving families a starting point for a fall trip they can shape around their children's interests. Travelers should check seasonal farm openings, train departures and park conditions when choosing dates.

Explore the full 3 Feet High itinerary and start planning a family adventure in Pierce County.

About Visit Tacoma-Pierce County

Visit Tacoma-Pierce County promotes Pierce County, Washington, as a premier visitor destination, attracting meetings and conventions, sporting events and leisure travelers to drive economic impact through overnight visitation.

Media Contact

Matt Wakefield
Chief Marketing and Data Officer
Visit Tacoma-Pierce County
[email protected]
253-284-3253

SOURCE Visit Tacoma-Pierce County