Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, established on March 2, 1899, contains vast expanses of pristine old-growth forests, subalpine flower meadows, spectacular alpine scenery, and great opportunity for stimulating outdoor activities. Mount Rainier National Park is the fifth oldest national park in the United States. The park encompasses 378 square miles (980 square kilometers, 235.612.5 acres). Elevation ranges from 1,880 at the Carbon River rain forest (NW corner of park) to 14,411 feet at the summit. Annual visitation exceeds 2 million visitors, with the majority of visitors coming to the park during the months of May through October. During this peak period, the best time to visit the park is Monday through Friday, to avoid large crowds which arrive early on sunny summer weekends. Parking lots at the most popular areas, such as Paradise and Sunrise, are generally full before noon on weekends.

Mount Rainier is located in west central Washington, approximately 1-2 hours driving time from Seattle, Tacoma and Yakima, Washington and Portland, Oregon. The Nisqually Entrance, located on the southwest side of the park on State Route 706, is open year-round. Other park roads are open only during the summer months. Opening and closing dates vary depending on snow conditions.

All locations and facilities in Mount Rainier National Park are open from July 1 through Labor Day. Most locations are accessible from Memorial Day into early October. Between November or December into May, snow limits vehicle access to the 18 miles of road between the Nisqually Entrance and Paradise (SW entrance via State Routes 7 and 706). The Stevens Canyon road closes when snowfall requires it. Visitor centers, hiking trails, lodging, mountain climbing, camping, wildflower displays, backcountry camping, and picnic are as are located throughout the park.