
The Silver Forest Trail at Sunrise features spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the White River valley.
Photo: JD Hascup Photo
Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems. A lifetime of discovery awaits.
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 directions →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.
Mount Rainier National Park to Host Open Houses on the Grove of the Patriarchs Bridge & Trail Replacement Project
Mount Rainier National Park, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration’s Western Federal Lands Highway Division, is inviting the public to learn about plans to replace the historic Grove of the Patriarchs suspension bridge and restore trail access to the ancient old-growth forest loop.
Grand Park 2 Fire Update, August 9, 2026
Emergency personnel from the U.S. Forest Service & U.S. Wildland Fire Service, are responding to an active wildfire in Mount Rainier National Park designated as the Grand Park 2 Fire.
Mount Rainier National Park Accepting Commercial Use Authorization Applications via National Park Service Online Portal starting September 1, 2026, for 2027.
Superintendent Greg Dudgeon announced today the park will accept Commercial Use Authorization applications through the National Park Service’s online portal starting September 1, 2026 for Bicycle Tours, Camping – Backcountry (formerly Summer Backpacking), Camping – Frontcountry (formerly Drive-in Camping), Guided Motorized Tour – 15 passengers or less, Hiking – Backcountry (formerly Summer Day Hiking), Road-based Commercial Tour, and Transport (non-tour) activities.