Commercial Visitor Services

Welcome to Mount Rainier's Commercial Visitor Services Information Page

Approximately 50 companies provide a wide variety of commercial visitor services in Mount Rainier National Park. These services are limited to those companies having specific authorization, usually in the form of a Concessions Contract or Commercial Use Authorization (CUA).

Federal regulations prohibit engaging in or soliciting any business in the park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a written agreement with the United States. As in other National Park Service areas, commercial visitor services may be provided only by those holding an authorization from the United States.

 

The Paradise Inn

Mount Rainier Authorized Commercial Visitor Services

Concession Contracts

• Lodging, food & beverage, retail at Paradise Inn, National Park Inn, Jackson Visitor Center and Sunrise: Guest Services, Inc.
• Mountaineering: Alpine Ascents International, International Mountain Guides, Rainier Mountaineering Inc.
• Firewood at Ohanapecosh and White River Campgrounds: John Squires
  

Commercial Use Authorizations

Current CUA holders
CUAs are issued for the following activities at Mount Rainier:

Single trip summit climbs Summer overnight (backpacking) Drive-in campground use Guided day hikes

Photography and art courses Winter day and overnight use Bicycle Tours

 

Climbing and Mountaineering Concessioners are some of the commercial visitor services available at Mount Rainier National Park.

NPS Photo

 

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National Park Service Commercial Visitor Services

"Through the use of concession contracts or commercial use authorizations, the National Park Service will provide commercial visitor service that are necessary and appropriate for public use and enjoyment. Concession operations will be consistent to the highest practicable degree with the preservation and conservation of resources and values of the park unit. Concession operations will demonstrate sound environmental management and stewardship." (NPS Management Policies, Chapter 10).
NPS Commercial Services

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you explain a bit more?
We understand that regulations are sometimes difficult to understand at first. If you think your activities might be "commercial", or if you have questions about how your activity will be defined, would like clarification about the need for an authorization, or think your activity might conflict with rights already granted to a park concessioner, please contact our Concessions Office at [phone] or [phone] or by email.

How do I apply for a Commercial Use Authorization?
CUA applications become available in August of each year. The park begins accepting application packets for CUAs in September. If you would like to request an application packet or have a question about the CUA program, please contact us at [phone] or by email.

What about Non-Profits?
Non-profit activity that is commercial in nature may require a Commercial Non-profit Special Use Permit. Please contact the Concessions Office at [phone] or [phone] or by email.