At 14,410 feet in elevation, Mt. Rainier is the icon of the Washington landscape. This is the most glaciated peak in the US and is an active volcano that is the start of 5 major rivers. Wildflower meadows surround this icy volcano while ancient forests shroud the lower slopes. With so much wildlife here, a lifetime of discovery awaits you.
Current Park Alerts
Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
Mount Rainier National Park is open all year. Visitation peaks in July and August with warmer weather and blooming wildflowers. In spring and autumn, weather determines the availability of facilities and roads. During winter months a number of roads, facilities, and entrances close for the season.
Entrance Fees
- $30 – Entrance - Private Vehicle
- $15 – Entrance - Per Person
- $25 – Entrance - Motorcycle
Weather
Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean and elevation. The climate is generally cool and rainy, with summer highs in the 60s and 70s. While July and August are the sunniest months of the year, rain is very likely in spring, fall, and winter. Visitors should be aware that mountain weather is very changeable. In the higher elevations, like Paradise, winter can last from November to May with many feet of snow on the ground.
Things to Do
Climbing Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier, the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States, offers an exciting challenge to the mountaineer. Climbers must be in excellent physical condition and well prepared. Learn more about the requirements for climbing Mount Rainier.
Camping at Mount Rainier
Reservation requiredEnjoy an extended, relaxing visit to Mount Rainier in one of the park's campgrounds.
Hike to Silver Falls
Enjoy a moderate, family-friendly loop hike through the forest to a beautiful waterfall along the Ohanapecosh River.
Day Hiking at Mount Rainier National Park
Looking for easy and enjoyable trails that the whole family can experience together? Consider the following trails in the Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon River/Mowich areas of Mount Rainier National Park. These day hikes range from short strolls to longer trails through the wilderness.
Wilderness Camping at Mount Rainier National Park
With 97% of the park designated wilderness, backpacking and wilderness camping is one of the best ways to experience Mount Rainier National Park.
Cloudy Day Activities at Mount Rainier
Everyone loves beautiful days when Mount Rainier is visible and the skies are blue! However, sometimes the weather does not cooperate. There is still so much to appreciate on days when the clouds roll in. Enjoy this list of park ranger favorites for days when the mountain isn’t out!
Getting There
Address: 55210 238th Avenue East Ashford WA 98304
Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington state. Several major cities in Washington- Seattle, Tacoma, and Yakima- and Portland, Oregon, are within 200 miles of the park. For GPS to Nisqually Entrance use: 39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304.
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Cougar Rock Campground
179 sites · $20/night
Cougar Rock Campground is located on the south side of the park, on the road between Longmire and Paradise. It is in a steep valley with the Nisqually River ac…
Ohanapecosh Campground
179 sites · $20/night
NOTE: The Ohanapecosh Campground will be CLOSED for the summer of 2026 as part of the Ohanapecosh Campground rehabilitation project. Ohanapecosh Campground is …
White River Campground
88 sites · $20/night
Located on the eastern side of the park below Sunrise, White River campground takes its name from the river flowing beside it. Tucked into a steep canyon, curv…
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Mount Rainier National Park?
The entrance fee for Mount Rainier National Park is $30. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.
Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Mount Rainier National Park?
Some entry windows or activities at Mount Rainier National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.
When is Mount Rainier National Park open?
Mount Rainier National Park is open all year. Visitation peaks in July and August with warmer weather and blooming wildflowers. In spring and autumn, weather determines the availability of facilities and roads. During winter months a number of roads, facilities, and entrances close for the season.
What are the best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park?
Popular things to do in Mount Rainier National Park include Climbing Mount Rainier, Camping at Mount Rainier, Hike to Silver Falls, Day Hiking at Mount Rainier National Park. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park?
Yes — Mount Rainier National Park has 3 campgrounds, including Cougar Rock Campground, Ohanapecosh Campground, White River Campground. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.