I believe they are named for Mt. Ranier, that gorgeous mountain in Washington state. Hubby and I have visited the lodge 3 times--we love to go to Seattle. Once we bought the cherries being sold along the roadside. Stopped at a self-serve station, washed them, and enjoyed on our drive. I saw them at Wally world yesterday for $6 per lb. That's too steep for me--I'll settle for the Bings.