GREAT NEWS for South King County families – thanks to a $2,500 grant extension from the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, the Mount Rainier Pool will continue offering free swim admissions for youth through Saturday, Aug. 3, 2025.

This grant extends a highly successful program originally made possible by a $10,000 grant from King County, allocated with the support of Councilmember De’Sean Quinn and former Councilmember Dave Upthegrove. Since the formation of the King County Parks Bond Levies, both have championed funding for programs like youth swim access, local swim teams, and lifeguard preparation initiatives—allowing us to better serve the community.

Over the past six months, this program has helped more than 2,100 local youth and their families enjoy free access to swimming, promoting:

  • Increased Water Safety – Early swim lessons reduce drowning risk, especially for low-income and underserved households.
  • Improved Health & Fitness – Swimming supports cardiovascular strength, flexibility, and positive physical activity.
  • Equity in Access – The program removes financial barriers and supports BIPOC, immigrant, and low-income communities.
  • Youth Development – Provides a safe, confidence-building environment that may inspire future lifeguards and leaders.
  • Community Building – Strengthens family bonds and positions the pool as a welcoming third place for all.

This grant-supported initiative exemplifies the power of public investment and civic partnerships to make a lasting difference—offering not just recreation, but lifesaving skills, mentorship pathways, and community connection.

Want to swim with your kids? Children under 3 are always free. Mount Rainier Pool offers thelowest rates in the region for youth, adults, and seniors, with monthly payment options for annual passes.

View schedules and register at mtrainierpool.com. The registration portal now features Google Translate for multilingual access.

“Let’s work together to keep every child safe, healthy, and confident in the water,” organizers said. “Thank you to the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, King County, and our local leaders for continuing to make this vision possible.”