Did you know that Mount Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range and in Washington state at 4,392 meters?!
Location: 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.
Always check the road status page before planning a trip to the park. Unexpected road closures may occur at any time due to the dynamic nature of Mount Rainier.
Avoid Summer Congestion
On busy summer weekends expect long waits at entrances and full parking lots. Plan ahead and follow these tips to avoid summer traffic.
Traffic & Travel Tips
Park roads are winding with narrow shoulders and the maximum speed limit is 35 mph in most areas. Allow plenty of travel time during your visit.
Traveling in Summer
On a sunny summer weekend, it can be difficult or impossible to find parking at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove of the Patriarchs, and at the trailheads between Longmire and Paradise. To help avoid this congestion, it is recommended to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day, and carpool to the park if possible. Parking is not permitted along the road edges.
Traveling in Winter
Many of the park roads close in winter. The road to Paradise closes nightly during winter months, and road conditions are often snowy and icy. All vehicles are required to carry tire chains. Learn more about Winter Travel, including information on gate closures, and Tire Chain Frequently-Asked-Questions.
Entrance Fees:
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Mount Rainier Annual Pass $55
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Mount Rainier Single Vehicle Fee $30
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Mount Rainier “Per Person” Fee $15
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Mount Rainier Motorcycle Fee $25
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Campground Fees – Camping Information $20
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Campground Fees – Groups $60
Save time at the entrance and pay your entry fee before you come by purchasing a digital pass through Recreation.gov!
2023 Fee-Free Days:
Entrance fees are waived on the following days:
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January 16: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
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April 22: First day of National Park Week
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August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
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September 23: National Public Lands Day
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November 11: Veterans Day
If you are interested in more information about visiting Mount Rainier, check out their website full of travel tips and tricks!
Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!