• Mount Rainier peeks through clouds, viewed across subalpine wildflowers and glacial moraine.

    Mount Rainier

    National Park Washington

Park Notices

Tire Chain Requirement
All vehicles are required to carry tire chains when traveling in the park during the winter season (Nov 1 - May 1). This requirement applies to all vehicles (including four-wheel drive), regardless of tire type or weather conditions. Review the Tire Chain Frequently Asked Questions for more information. Learn more about Winter Recreation at Mount Rainier National Park.

 

Stevens Canyon Road Closure on September 6, 2011 for Road Work.
Posted: August 26, 2011

Due to extensive roadway embankment stabilization and subsurface compaction grouting efforts, Stevens Canyon Road will be closed between the gate located just west of the Grove of the Patriarchs to just east of the popular Backbone Ridge viewpoint from September 6, 2011 through the 2011-2012 winter closure. Visitors will be able to access the Reflection Lakes, Box Canyon and Backbone Ridge areas and adjacent trailheads from the west during the fall 2011 closure.

During the closure, visitors will only be able to access the Paradise area from the southwest via the Nisqually Entrance at the east end of SR 706. Visitors traveling from the east via SR 410, SR 123, and/or US 12 who wish to visit the Paradise area can detour via SR 7 beginning in Morton on US 12 and ending on SR 706 at Elbe. (US 12 may have delays due to road work, for more information check the Washington State Department of Transportation WASDOT).

While the construction, closures, and traffic delays present an inconvenience, the rehabilitation work will not only improve the driving surface of the roadway, but ensure its longevity.

Stevens Canyon roadwork is also scheduled for periods during the 2012 & 2013 seasons. Information on this project, as well as general park information, is available on the park's website under News Releases.

For information on other Mount Rainier roads check Road Status.

  • Wildlife Safety Wildlife Safety

    The park is home to a diversity of animals, including potentially dangerous large mammals like black bears and mountain lions. Read More »

  • Weather Weather

    Be prepared for Mount Rainier's changeable weather. Check the forecast... Read More »

  • Trail Conditions Trail Conditions

    Planning a trip into the Mount Rainier backcountry? Find out what the trails are like before you go. Read More »

Did You Know?

Floyd Schmoe, Mount Rainier's first full-time Park Naturalist.

Floyd Schmoe was Mount Rainier's first full-time Park Naturalist.  In 1923, he launched the park's "Nature Notes", a series of writings on various park-related topics.  There are hundreds of editions of the notes in the park's collection, all of which are accessible through the Mount Rainier History & Culture webpage: More...