Commercial Use Authorizations

 

What is a CUA?

A Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) is a business permit with the National Park Service that authorizes an individual, group, company, or other for-profit entity to conduct commercial activities and provide specific visitor services within a national park area. The National Park Service will only issue CUAs for commercial activities and visitor services that:

• are determined to be an appropriate use of Mount Rainier National Park;
• will have minimal impact on Mount Rainier National Park’s resources and values; and
• are consistent with Mount Rainier National Park’s purpose, management plans, policies, and regulations.

Current CUA holders
Regulations for Guiding on Mount Rainier
CUA News Release - July 28, 2025

CUAs are issued for the following activities at Mount Rainier:

• Guided Mountaineering (Previously Single Trip Guided Climbs)

• Climbing/Mountaineering Day Trip and Climbing/Mountaineering Overnight (Previously Mountaineering Training, by request only)

• Camping Backcountry (Previously Summer Backpacking Overnight)

• Hiking Backcountry (Previously Summer Day Hiking)

• Bicycle Tours

• Photography Instruction

• Camping Front Country (Previously Drive-In Campground Use)

• Guided Winter Activities Day Use

• Guided Winter Activities Overnight

• Transport Non-Tour, Road Based (Previously Shuttles)

 

CUA Application Timelines

Date CUA applications are accepted: Mount Rainier National Park begins accepting applications annually starting September 1 for CUAs. Note the alternate years depending on the activity as follows:

Starting September 1, 2025, the CUA program will begin accepting applications for:

• 2026 -2027 Guided Mountaineering (Previously Single Trip Guided Climbs) - 23 permits allowed
• 2026 -2027 Photography Instruction - 25 permits allowed

Starting September 1, 2026, the CUA program will begin accepting applications for:

• 2026-2027 Guided Backpacking - 10 permits allowed
• 2026-2027 Guided Bicycle Tours - 10 permits allowed
• 2026-2027 Guided Day Hiking - 20 permits allowed
• 2026-2027 Drive-in Campground Use - 15 permits allowed

Starting March 1, 2027, the CUA program will begin accepting applications for:

• November 2027–March 2029 Guided Winter Day Use - 7 permits allowed
• November 2027–March 2029 Guided Winter Day Overnight Use - 7 permits allowed

Monthly rounds: The park limits the number of CUAs issued for each activity. Applications for CUAs will be accepted in monthly rounds. The September round will accept applications postmarked between September 1 and September 30. Any remaining CUAs that were not issued in September will be available for the October round. Those applications postmarked October 1 through October 31 will be considered in the October round. After October, it is first-come, first-served for any remaining CUAs.

 

How to Apply for a CUA

• Online CUA portal: Commercial Use Authorizations
• How to apply for a CUA through the online portal: CUA Help
• Payment is submitted through the online portal.

 

CUA Online Portal

Apply for a CUA and submit payments through the online portal.

Go to the CUA Portal

 

Applications currently available on the online portal (and must be submitted through the online portal):

• Guided Winter Activities - Day Use: November 2025–March 2027

• Guided Winter Activities - Overnight Use: November 2025–March 2027

• Camping Backcountry (Previously Summer Backpacking Overnight): 2025-2026

• Hiking Backcountry (Previously Summer Day Hiking): 2025-2026

• Bicycle Tours: 2025-2026

• Photography Instruction – 2024-2025

• Camping Front Country (Previously Drive-In Campground Use): 2025-2026

• Transport Non-Tour, Road Based (Previously Shuttles): 2025

 

CUA Conditions

 

Conditions for all CUAs

Standard NPS Conditions

1. False Information:  The holder is prohibited from knowingly giving false information. To do so will be considered a breach of conditions and be grounds for revocation: [RE: 36 CFR 2.32(a) (3)].
2. Legal Compliance:  The holder shall exercise this privilege subject to the supervision of the area Superintendent. The holder shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the area and terms and conditions of the authorization. The holder must acquire all permits or licenses of State or local government, as applicable, necessary to provide the services described above, and must operate in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, all applicable park area policies, procedures and regulations. All vehicles/vessels/aircraft are required to be registered, and the operators are required to have the proper licenses to operate them commercially, as required by law or regulation.
3. Employee Conduct:  The holder must ensure that its employees are hospitable and exercise courtesy and consideration in their relations with the public. The holder must establish appropriate screening, hiring, training, safety, employment, termination and other policies and procedures. The holder must review the conduct of any of its employees whose action or activities are considered by the holder or the Director to be inconsistent with the proper administration of the Area and enjoyment and protection of visitors and must take such actions as are necessary to correct the situation. The holder must maintain, to the greatest extent possible, a drug free work environment.
4. Rates:  The holder shall provide commercial services under this authorization to visitors at reasonable rates satisfactory to the area Superintendent.
5. Operating Conditions: The holder shall provide the authorized commercial services to visitors under operating conditions satisfactory to the area Superintendent. 
6. Liabilities and Claims:  This authorization is issued upon the express condition that the United States, its agents and employees shall be free from all liabilities and claims for damages and/or suits for or by reason of any injury, injuries, or death to any person or persons or property of any kind whatsoever, whether to the person or property of the holder, its agents or employees, or third parties, from any cause or causes whatsoever while in or upon said premises or any part thereof during the term of this authorization or occasioned by any occupancy or use of said premises or any activity carried on by the holder in connection herewith, and the holder hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless the United States, its agents, and employees from all liabilities, charges, expenses and costs on account of or by reason of any such injuries, deaths, liabilities, claims, suits or losses however occurring or damages growing out of the same. 
7. Insurance:  Holder agrees to carry general liability insurance against claims occasioned by the action or omissions of the holder, its agents and employees in carrying out activities and operations under this authorization. The policy shall name the United States of America as additional insured.  Holder agrees to have on file with the park copies of the above insurance with the proper endorsements. 
8. Exculpatory Agreements: Any exculpatory agreement used by the CUA holder or entity providing services authorized by the CUA must comply with applicable state and federal law and NPS policy. The exculpatory agreement must not waive liability or preclude claims against or require indemnifying the CUA holder or entity providing services authorized by the CUA for gross negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct. The exculpatory agreement must waive liability against the United States by including the following language: “The undersigned further waives liability of the United States and acknowledges and agrees that the United States and its officers and employees are fully released from any liability for injuries, damages, or losses that the undersigned sustains as a result of or in connection with the undersigned’s participation in this activity.” The Service will not as a matter of standard practice, collect, review or approve the exculpatory agreement. The CUA holder may consider consulting with their own counsel in the development of its exculpatory agreement to ensure they comply with NPS policy and Applicable Law. However, the Service reserves the right to review the exculpatory agreement and any modifications or replacements of the agreement at any time during the term of the CUA and require any revisions to ensure all the requirements of NPS policy are met. The NPS also reserves the right to require changes to the exculpatory agreement or, to the extent permitted by law, revoke the allowance to use the exculpatory agreement, if the Service determines the agreement is not compliant. Any determination by the Service that an exculpatory agreement is policy-compliant does not convey the NPS’s view that the agreement is valid, enforceable, or otherwise endorsed by the NPS for any purpose.
9. CUA Fees:  At a minimum, the holder shall reimburse the park for all costs incurred by the park as a result of accepting and processing the application and managing and monitoring the authorized activity.  Administrative costs for the application process must be paid when the application is submitted.  Monitoring fees and any additional costs incurred by the park to support the commercial activity will be paid annually or on a more frequent basis as determined by mutual agreement between the Holder and the area Superintendent.
10. Benefit:  No member of, or delegate to, Congress, or Resident Commissioner shall be admitted to any share or part of this authorization or to any benefit that may arise from this authorization.  This restriction shall not be construed to extend to this Contract if made with a corporation or company for its general benefit.
11. Transfer:  This authorization may not be transferred or assigned without the written consent of the area Superintendent. 
12. Suspension and Revocation: This authorization may be suspended or revoked upon breach of any of the conditions herein or at the discretion of the area Superintendent. 
13. Preference or Exclusivity:  The holder is not entitled to any preference to renewal of this authorization except to the extent otherwise expressly provided by law. This authorization is not exclusive and is not a concession contract. 
14. Construction:  The holder shall not construct any structures, fixtures or improvements in the park area. The holder shall not engage in any groundbreaking activities without the express, written approval of the area Superintendent. 
15. Reporting:  The holder must submit annually the CUA Annual Report (NPS Form 10-660) by January 31 for the prior CUA season and also must submit upon request the CUA Monthly Report (NPS Form 10-660A). The holder is to provide the area Superintendent upon request any other specific information related to the holder’s operations that the area Superintendent may request, including but not limited to, visitor use statistics, and resource impact assessments. 
16. Accounting:  The holder is to maintain an accounting system under which its accounts can be readily identified within its system of accounts classification. This accounting system must be capable of providing the information required by this authorization. The holder grants the United States of America access to its books and records at any time for the purpose of determining compliance with the terms and conditions of this authorization.
17. Paid Sick Leave: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 13706 of September 30, 2016, (Establishing Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 C.F.R. part 13, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization. 
18. Intellectual Property of the National Park Service: Except with the written authorization of the Director of the National Park Service, the Holder shall not assert any legal claim that the Holder or any related entity holds a trademark, tradename, servicemark or other ownership interest in the words "National Park Service", the initials "NPS", or official name of any unit or part thereof, including but not limited to any facility, logo, distinctive natural, archaeological, cultural, or historic site, within the National Park System, or any colorable likeness thereof, or the likeness of a National Park Service official uniform, badge, logo, or insignia.
19. Nondiscrimination:  The holder must comply with Applicable Laws relating to nondiscrimination in providing visitor services to the public and with all equal employment opportunity provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as amended.
20. Notification of Employee Rights: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 13496 of January 30, 2009, (Notification of Employee Rights Under Federal Labor Laws) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 CFR part 471, appendix A to subpart A, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization.

Mount Rainier National Park General Provisions (applies to all activity types)

1. The CUA holder is required to carry a copy of this authorization while operating within the park, and this copy must be presented to park officials at fee stations and upon request. The CUA holder will ensure that every staff member reads and understands the contents and conditions of the CUA. 
2. This Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) does not authorize the Commercial Use Authorization Holder (holder) to advertise, solicit business, collect any fees, or sell any goods or services on lands owned and controlled by the United States.  The commercial aspects of the service, except for the service itself, must occur outside of the park, including marketing, advertising, use or construction of temporary or permanent structures, the negotiation of compensation with the customer, or the solicitation or receipt of money or other compensation.  Advertising for the permitted activity shall not state or imply endorsement by the National Park Service and must not depict or suggest prohibited or unauthorized activities. 
3. This CUA will not be transferred, extended, or assigned without the written consent of the park area Superintendent.  Services cannot be subcontracted to anyone else.  Additional operators are required to have their own separate authorization. 
4. Violation of any park regulation or terms of this authorization will result in the suspension of privileges granted by this authorization or may result in denial of future CUA applications. 
5. Emergency Operations Plan: The CUA holder will have an emergency operations plan for Search and Rescue (SAR) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) incidents in the park. The guide is responsible for notifying the Park of all incidents involving overdue parties or accidents involving property damage or personal injury are to be reported to the park staff as soon as possible.  For emergency reporting:  Call Mount Rainier Park Dispatch at [phone]. 
6. Public Health Guidelines: Food services provided by the holder in association with the authorized services shall comply with National Park Service (NPS) Public Health Guidelines (NPS-83). Download a checklist for Temporary Event Food Safety Guidelines. Temporary food events need to comply with this document and the USPHS/FDA Food Code 
7. Client Orientation: The CUA holder or employee shall provide all clients with an orientation prior to the trip which emphasizes safe practices in bear habitat, Leave No Trace ethics, park rules and regulations, and specific nature, demands, and dangers of the particular trip. The Superintendent’s Compendium regarding park regulations can be found on the Mount Rainier National Park Laws & Policies webpage. 
8. Client Transportation: No more than 2 commercial vehicles can be parked at a trailhead at one time in the park (with the exception of Paradise lower lot, Longmire, and Sunrise parking lots). 
9. Monitoring: The CUA holder may be monitored for:  
   • On-site monitoring to ensure compliance with terms and conditions of permit. 
   • Resource impact monitoring. 
   • Impact on noncommercial users. 
10. Entrance fee: The CUA holder is required to pay the entrance fee. The driver is required to stop at the entrance station and show the fee collector the CUA. All CUA groups are charged on a per-person basis. The entrance fee is $15 per client (no charge for paid guides and/or drivers, and anyone under 16 years of age).  
    • If any of your clients has a Mount Rainier Annual pass or America the Beautiful™ Interagency pass (Annual / Senior / Military / Access / Volunteer / Every-Kid-in-a-Park™) with valid ID, entrance fees will be waived for the pass-holder and up to 3 additional adults—PROVIDED THEY ARE IN THE SAME VEHICLE, or, for clients entering on bicycle or foot, THEY ENTER THE PARK SIMULTANEOUSLY.  Passes must be in client's names, not in the CUA-holder's name.  A driver’s National Park Pass cannot be used to cover clients.   
    • The CUA holder can re-enter the park with the same group for the duration of the trip, using the receipt showing payment. 
11. Commercial-Free Zones: Commercial groups cannot enter, travel through, or otherwise use Commercial-Free Zones.  Commercial-Free Zones include the West Side Alpine and Tatoosh Commercial-Free Zones. 
    • The West Side Alpine Zone is on the west side of the mountain between the 7,000 and 13,500-foot elevations.  The zone begins at Success Cleaver and follows this area clockwise to Ptarmigan Ridge.  
    • The Tatoosh Zone is bound by Muddy Branch on the west side of the park, the Wonderland Trail/Stevens Canyon Road on the North (whichever boundary is farther south in any given area), and Longmire on the west side of the park.  It includes the Tatoosh Range and the Butter Creek Research area. 
12. Terms of permit:  All terms (including the CUA holder’s Operating Plan, Safety Procedures, Emergency Operations, LNT, and Client Orientation) in the CUA holder’s application packet are enforceable under the terms of this permit. 

 

Conditions by Activity Type

Hiking - Backcountry Conditions (Previously Summer Day Hiking)

1. Hiking Season Restrictions: Groups must stay on maintained trails with no traveling through cross-country zones or Commercial-Free zones.  Commercial day hikes are NOT allowed on these trails:
   • Paradise Meadows or Skyline Trail (with the exception of passing through to Camp Muir)\
   • Nisqually Vista Trail
   • Ohanapecosh Hot Springs Trail 
   • Grove of the Patriarchs Trail of the Shadows 
   • Fremont Lookout 
   • Sunrise Loop Trail by Frozen Lake (with the exception of passing through to Burroughs Mountain or Berkeley Park)
2. Other Restrictions: 
   • May guide trips from May 15 through September 30 (inclusive). 
   • 12 people per party (maximum)
   • 5 clients per guide (maximum) 
   • 1 trip per day (can include multiple locations with the same group) 
3. Leave No Trace: The CUA holder will be required to abide by and instruct clients in “Leave No Trace” principles in alpine and subalpine environments. This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed. 
   • Refuse: 
     • Liquid garbage will be strained through a fine-mesh screen capable of holding small food particles; the solids will then be placed in garbage bags. The Trip Leader is responsible to ensure that participants properly dispose of refuse. 
     • Food waste, rubbish and other refuse shall not be discarded. All refuse material must be carried out.  If there is room, litter left by others should also be packed out. 
   • Human Waste: Human waste will be disposed of in established backcountry toilets when available, in cat holes below tree line where toilets are unavailable and using the blue bag method above tree line and where toilets are unavailable. 
4. Stoves: Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness. 
5. Public Health Guidelines: The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations.
   • Click on “State Health Departments” in left column. 

Camping - Backcountry Conditions (Previously Summer Backpacking)

1. Wilderness Permit: The CUA holder will secure a National Park Service Wilderness Use Permit for wilderness overnight camping (available at the Longmire Museum or Wilderness Information Centers within the park) at the start of each trip and will abide by the rules and regulations therein. CUA holder must identify itself as a commercial activity using the company name at the time a Wilderness Permit is obtained.    
2. Hiking Season Restrictions:  
   • One trip per year up to 5 nights in duration in trailside camps. 
   • No more than 12 people per party (clients and guides). 
   • Groups larger than 5 (6 to 12) must use group sites (no splitting of parties). 
   • All tents must fit in the constructed footprints of the established campsite tent pads. 
   • Parties of 5 or fewer members may use individual campsites. 
   • There will be a minimum of 1 guide for every 5 clients. 
   • Groups must stay on maintained trails. No off-trail use (cross-country travel, hiking on undesignated trails or in the non-commercial use zones). 
   • No Friday or Saturday night stays with the exception of Ipsut Creek Campground which is available 7 nights a week. 
   • No more than one night’s stay in any one trailside camp. 
   • Specific to the Use of the Wonderland Trail: No overnight use in July and August with the exception of Ipsut Creek Campground which is available May 15 – September 30. 
3. Leave No Trace: The CUA holder will be required to abide by and instruct clients in “Leave No Trace” principles in alpine and subalpine environments. This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed. 
   • Refuse: 
     • Food waste, rubbish and other refuse shall not be discarded. All refuse material must be carried out.  If there is room, litter left by others should also be packed out. 
     • Liquid garbage will be strained through a fine-mesh screen capable of holding small food particles; the solids will then be placed in garbage bags. The Trip Leader is responsible to ensure that participants properly dispose of refuse. 
     • Human Waste: Human waste will be disposed of in established backcountry toilets when available, in cat holes below tree line where toilets are unavailable and using the blue bag method above tree line and where toilets are unavailable. 
4. Stoves: Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness.  
5. Public Health Guidelines: The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations. 
   • Click on “State Health Departments” in left column.
6. Cancellation of trip: CUA holder is responsible to contact the Concessions office at [phone], or [phone], or by email if cancelling their trip.

Camping - Frontcountry Conditions (Previously Drive-in Campground Use)

1. Camping as a group will be restricted to designated group sites in drive-in campgrounds. 
2. Use Restrictions: 
   • For drive-in campgrounds with groups sites (Ohanapecosh and Cougar Rock), all permit holders must use the group sites, regardless of the size of the group; individual sites cannot be used. For drive-in campgrounds with only individual sites (White River and Mowich), all permit holders may use individual sites, within established parameters. 
   • The CUA holder shall not reserve more than one group site in the park per night. 
3. Cougar Rock Campground (Group site capacities range between 25 and 40 people):
   • Allows 1 (out of 5) group sites any night(s) of the week, including weekends.  
   • Sites will be reserved in competition with the public. 
4. Ohanapecosh Campground (Group site capacity is 25 people) (CLOSED 2025):
   • Allows 1 (out of 2) group sites, Sunday through Thursday nights. No Friday or Saturday night use.  
   • Site will be reserved in competition with the public. 
5. White River Campground (Individual site capacity is 6 people, maximum 2 tents):
   • Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations). 
   • Campground is generally open early July through mid-September. 
6. Mowich Lake Campground (Individual site capacity is 6 people, maximum 2 tents):
   • Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations).  
   • Campground is generally open mid-July through mid-September.  
7. Reservations & Registrations: The CUA holder will use the same reservation or registration system used by noncommercial users and must identify itself as a commercial activity and give the name of the business. 
   • To make reservations for Cougar Rock Campground and Ohanapecosh Campground, go to www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444- 6777.  
   • White River Campground and Mowich Lake Campground registrations must only be made at the campground on a first-come, first-served basis. 
8. Reservation Changes & Cancellations:  Policy on campground reservations changes and cancellations is the following: 
   • All reservations will be canceled if the party reserving the site does not show up by 12:00 noon the day after the scheduled arrival date. 
   • To change or cancel a reservation, call the campground reservations agent at 1-877-444-6777. The CUA holder may be required to pay a cancellation fee and (or) lose the payment made for the first night's stay. 
9. If you will be arriving late and would like to have a campsite held more than 24 hours: 
   • For Cougar Rock Campground: Call [phone]
   • For Ohanapecosh Campground: Call [phone]
10. Campground Fees: The CUA holder is required to pay campground fees as required by the NPS for both reserve-only campgrounds and first-come, first-served campgrounds in the park.  
11. Food: Keep campsite clean of food scraps and garbage. Never leave food unattended. Store food in animal-proof containers overnight or vehicle while not in campsite. 
12. Fires: Fires are permitted in designated fire pits and grates. Absolutely no collection of firewood, twigs, or organic material gathered within the Park is allowed. Firewood is available for purchase at various locations. 
13. Public Health Guidelines: The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations.

Bicycle Tours Conditions

1. The following restrictions apply: 
   • CUA holder may lead up to 2 groups per year and up to 12 cyclists per group maximum (inclusive of guides and clients). 
   •  From May 15 through September 30, road conditions permitting, cycling trips may take place within the park Tuesday through Thursday (not valid Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Federal Holidays).
   • From October 1 through May 14, road conditions permitting, cycling trips may take place Monday through Friday (not valid Saturday, Sunday, or Federal Holidays) 
   • No more than two (2) guided bicycle trips may occur in the park per day (includes trips guided by other CUA operators).   
2. Cyclists will always ride SINGLE FILE. Bicycles are allowed on roadways, shoulders, and pullouts only. Cyclists must obey all traffic laws, including no consumption of alcoholic beverages or open carrying of alcoholic beverages. 
3. All bicycles must have reflectors front and rear for use in inclement weather and in tunnels. 
4. Safety clothing is required and will consist of, at minimum, a cycling helmet and at least one bright colored outer garment.  
5. There will be no course marking of any kind on any object, roadway, road surface, trees, or rocks. 
6. Restrooms will be used only for deposit of human waste. 
7. Bicycles will not be allowed to be stored in lobbies or guest rooms of the National Park Inn or the Paradise Inn. Storage of bicycles is the responsibility of the CUA holder. 
8. Public Health Guidelines:  The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations. 

Guided Mountaineering Conditions (Previously Single Trip Guided Climbs)

1. The CUA guide(s) and clients will pay a Climbing Cost Recovery Fee. Applicable to those climbing above 10,000 feet or glacier travel. Climbing Passes are available at Wilderness Information Centers within the park and online through Recreation.gov. CUA holders will abide by the rules and regulations therein. The CUA holder must identify itself as a commercial activity using the company name at the time a Climbing Fee is paid. 
2. Single Trip Guiding includes the following limits: 
   • One summit attempt per year. 
   • Maximum group size is 6 people including guides. 
   • No more than 3 clients per guide. 
   • Five nights per trip maximum. 
   • Trips may occur Sunday through Thursday (no Friday or Saturday night stays). 
   • Trips may occur on any route outside the Commercial Free Zone with the exception of the Liberty Ridge Route. Trips may include guiding the Muir, Emmons and Kautz Routes. 
3. The CUA holder will be required to abide by and instruct clients in “Leave No Trace” principles in alpine environments. This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed. 
   • Refuse 
     • Food waste, rubbish and other refuse MAY NOT BE DISCARDED. All refuse material must be carried out. 
     • Liquid garbage will be strained through a fine-mesh screen capable of holding small food particles; the solids will then be placed in garbage bags. The Trip Leader is responsible to ensure that participants properly dispose of refuse. 
   • Human Waste 
     • It is the responsibility of each party to remove its solid human waste. A human waste carry-out system will accompany all trips. Party members are required to use restrooms at high camps for urination and defecation. 
     • Where high camp facilities are unavailable, party members are required to use blue bags and pack solid waste back to a proper disposal facility at high camps or ranger stations. Use areas on the snow or rocks away from campsites, climbing routes, or snow/water collection areas. Deposit urine on the rocks or snow. 
4. Camping as a group will be restricted to designated wilderness sites or approved glacier areas and climbing camps. Clearing new tent sites on rocky or snow-free areas is prohibited. 
5. Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness. 
6. Public Health Guidelines: 
   • The operator is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations (also see Washington State guidelines).   
7. Access to Climbing Routes: The CUA holder would access climbing routes only via standard approach routes. 
   • Access to the Kautz Route and Fuhrer’s Finger would be via Paradise rather than Van Trump Park. 
   • Access to the Emmons Route or Winthrop Glacier would be via the Inter Glacier, no access via Mount Ruth. 
   • No cross-country travel on vegetation or soil is permitted (lower approach must occur on designated trails). 
   • For the upper approach route when the designated trail runs out, use established way trails in snow-free areas. Walk on snow whenever possible, rather than sensitive emerging vegetation. During snow melt-out, follow marked trails. Use rest stops on snow, or durable or established areas. 
8. Helmet Use: Guides and clients traveling on glaciers and during activities where rock or icefall is possible will wear protective helmets. 
9. Roped Parties: When traveling on glaciers or in other hazardous terrain, guides will travel roped up to a partner (either another guide or a client). Clients must travel roped up to a guide. Guides and clients may un-rope at camps or rest areas on glaciers once the guide has designated a safe area. 
10. No clients are to be left alone. No clients will be left on an approach route, in camp, or on the mountain without a CUA guide in the immediate vicinity. Guide to client ratio is 3:1 (at no point shall the ratio exceed 4:1; e.g. in case of emergency or a client needs to descend). 
11. Guided groups must have at least one electronic method (Programmable Handheld Radio, Satellite Phone, etc.) for communicating with the Service or permit holder in the event of an emergency.  
12. Cooperation with the Park, Concessioners, and Independent Climbers: This activity will include serving as an example to clients and the non-guided public in the appropriate use of the park, by following park rules and regulations, and by following the mission of the NPS and Mount Rainier National Park. Close cooperation at the climbing high camps and along the climbing routes is expected. Cooperation includes coordinating starting times for climbs (if at Camp Muir or Camp Schurman), cooperatively using common areas, and managing your group to avoid congestion on climbing routes. 
13. Wands must indicate Party Name and Date on the flag. All wands placed by the party must be removed upon descent from the climb. 
14. Cancellation of trip: CUA holder is responsible to contact the Concessions office at [phone], or [phone], or by email if cancelling their trip.

Photography Instruction Conditions

1. Trip Conditions:
   • One (1) trip per week throughout the year per permit. 
   • No more than 12 trips per year.
   • Twelve (12) people per group maximum including guides/instructors. 
   • 5:1 client/guide ratio (maximum) recommended. 
   • May not obstruct the ability of other visitors to stay on trails or to use overlooks. 
   • The CUA holder shall ensure that activity participants remain on designated trails at all times. Cross-country travel shall not occur.
   • Photography and Art Courses may not conflict with NPS-sponsored programs. 
2.  Leave No Trace: The CUA holder will model appropriate wilderness practices and incorporate appreciation for wilderness values in their interaction with clients.  The CUA holder will abide by and instruct clients in Leave No Trace principles in sub-alpine and forest environments.  This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed.
   • Refuse:  Food waste, rubbish and other refuse shall not be discarded. All refuse material must be carried out.  The CUA holder is encouraged to pack out any other litter left by other visitors. 
   • Human Waste: Groups are required to use restrooms if available.  Use the cathole method below tree-line.  Above tree-line, it is the responsibility of each party to remove its solid human waste. A human waste carryout system will accompany all trips. For urine, use areas on the snow or rocks away from campsites and main routes.
3. Stoves:  Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness.
4. Public Health Guidelines:  The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations.
   • Click on “State Health Departments” in left column.

Transport Non-Tour, Road Based Conditions (Previously Shuttle)

1. Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) Identification:
   • Vehicle Markings: All vehicles, including rental vehicles, must display company information on both sides of the vehicle that meets the following minimum requirements:
     • Company name
     • Number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or State of Washington if applicable.
     • The letters must contrast sharply in color with the background on which the letters are placed.
     • Markings must be legible, during daylight hours, from a distance of 50 feet when the vehicle is stationary.
   • Employees are required to display the name of the CUA holder’s company on their person while providing tours/guide services within the park. Employees can meet this requirement by wearing, at a minimum, one of the following: nametag, shirt, or hat. If wearing multiple logos, the CUA holder's company must be the predominant logo.
2. Closures:  CUA holder is only permitted to operate if access is open to the general public. Public closures, including ad hoc orders by the Superintendent, apply to CUAs.
3. Vehicles:  All vehicles must be owned or leased by [COMPANY].  A list of vehicles make, model, color, and license plates must be submitted at least three business days before use.
4. Daily Limits:  CUA holder is approved to provide three windows of shuttling from outside the park to Sunrise with a daily limit of 135 persons.
5. Shuttle Itinerary Route
   • Shuttle Route will be subject to requested itinerary and created to maintain deconfliction with any other Shuttle CUAs issued.
   • Shuttle (un)loading zones for passengers will be determined based upon 4.a. Standing in this location is restricted to 20 minutes with no more than 5 minutes of idling time on the engine per stop. No staging of vehicles or parking is permitted within Mount Rainier National Park.
   • The CUA holder must submit an itinerary of proposed locations with application to be reviewed and approved by Commercial Services office. 
   • Any changes or updates to itineraries must be submitted to Commercial Services office a minimum of 3 weeks prior to trip(s) for approval.
6. Overdue Parties Inside Mount Rainier National Park
   • The CUA holder will maintain a manifest of passengers.
   • CUA holder must provide [Company] contact information to passengers in case of a missed, scheduled shuttle.
   • CUA holder must arrange travel needed to transport clients back to their original meeting location (i.e., first parking lot, round tree stump, etc. ) for clients who do not arrive by the last scheduled shuttle, unless client purchased a one-way trip.
   • CUA Operator to inform Mount Rainier National Park Dispatch at [phone] of overdue parties and with plan to transport them out of the park.
7. Lost & Found:  CUA holder is responsible for a ‘lost and found’ system for personal items left on vehicles.
8. Refuse:  All solid waste must be packed out by the shuttle operator.  No garbage to be placed in National Park Service trash cans or dumpsters.
9. Firearms:  CUA Holder and employees shall not carry firearms while providing commercial services within Mount Rainier National Park.

Guided Winter Activities - Overnight Use Conditions

1. Trip Conditions: 
   • Three (3) trips per year during winter season (maximum).
   • Five (5) nights per trip (maximum).
   • No more than 12 people per party (clients and guides).
   • Four (4) nights per wilderness zone (5 nights allowed at Camp Muir).
   • 4:1 clients to guide ratio (maximum) on glacier, 5:1 clients to guide ratio (maximum) if no glacier travel.
2. Wilderness Permit: The CUA holder will secure a National Park Service Wilderness Use Permit for wilderness overnight camping (available at the Longmire Museum or Wilderness Information Centers within the park) at the start of each trip, and will abide by the rules and regulations therein. CUA holder must identify itself as a commercial activity using the company name at the time a Wilderness Permit is obtained.  
   • Camping as a group will be restricted to designated wilderness sites or approved glacier areas and climbing camps. Clearing new tent sites on rocky or snow-free areas is prohibited.
3. Leave No Trace: The CUA holder will be required to abide by and instruct clients in “Leave No Trace” principles in alpine and subalpine environments. This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed.
   • Refuse:
     • Food waste, rubbish and other refuse shall not be discarded. All refuse material must be carried out.  If there is room, litter left by others should also be packed out.
     • Liquid garbage will be strained through a fine-mesh screen capable of holding small food particles; the solids will then be placed in garbage bags. The Trip Leader is responsible to ensure that participants properly dispose of refuse.
   • Human Waste: Human waste will be disposed of in established backcountry toilets when available, in cat holes below tree line where toilets are unavailable and using the blue bag method above tree line and where toilets are unavailable.
4. Cross Country Travel: No cross-country travel on vegetation or soil is permitted (lower approach must occur on designated trails). Walk on snow whenever possible, rather than sensitive emerging vegetation. During snow melt-out, follow marked trails if present. Use rest stops on snow, or durable or established areas. 
5. Helmet Use: Guides and clients traveling on glaciers and during activities where rock or icefall is possible will wear protective helmets.
6. Roped Parties: When traveling on glaciers or in appropriate hazardous terrain, guides will travel roped up to a partner (either another guide or a client). Clients must travel roped up to a guide. Guides and clients may un-rope at camps or rest areas on glaciers once the guide has designated a safe area.
7. Stoves: Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness.
8. Public Health Guidelines:  The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations.
9. Cancellation of trip: CUA holder is responsible to contact the Concessions office at [phone], or [phone], or by email if cancelling their trip.

Guided Winter Activities - Day Use Conditions

1. Trip Conditions:
   • 10 trips per year during winter season (maximum).
   • No more than 12 people per party (clients and guides).
   • One (1) trip per day (maximum).
   • 4:1 client to guide ratio (maximum) on glacier, 5:1 client to guide ratio (maximum) if no glacier travel.  
2. Leave No Trace: The CUA holder will be required to abide by and instruct clients in “Leave No Trace” principles in alpine and subalpine environments. This includes proper sanitation methods for food, water, waste, and human waste including blue bag use, and ensuring that safe practices are followed.
   • Refuse:
     • Food waste, rubbish and other refuse shall not be discarded. All refuse material must be carried out.  If there is room, litter left by others should also be packed out.
     • Liquid garbage will be strained through a fine-mesh screen capable of holding small food particles; the solids will then be placed in garbage bags. The Trip Leader is responsible to ensure that participants properly dispose of refuse.
   •  Human Waste: Human waste will be disposed of in established backcountry toilets when available, in cat holes below tree line where toilets are unavailable and using the blue bag method above tree line and where toilets are unavailable
3. Cross Country Travel: No cross-country travel on vegetation or soil is permitted (lower approach must occur on designated trails). Walk on snow whenever possible, rather than sensitive emerging vegetation. During snow melt-out, follow marked trails if present. Use rest stops on snow, or durable or established areas. 
4. Helmet Use: Guides and clients traveling on glaciers and during activities where rock or icefall is possible will wear protective helmets.
5. Roped Parties: When traveling on glaciers or in appropriate hazardous terrain, guides will travel roped up to a partner (either another guide or a client). Clients must travel roped up to a guide. Guides and clients may un-rope at camps or rest areas on glaciers once the guide has designated a safe area.
6. Stoves: Chemical/fuel stoves may be used. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed in the wilderness.
7. Public Health Guidelines: The CUA holder is encouraged to comply with the guidelines of the US Public Health Service for Food, Potable Water, Human Waste, Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Illness Reporting in backcountry operations.

 

Reporting Requirements

• CUA holders must submit an annual report each year by January 31 for the previous calendar year. Failure to return required reports or misrepresentation of statistics or earnings will result in denial of your next CUA application or suspension of your current CUA.
  • CUA Annual Report - Form 10-660 (Annual Reports are required for each CUA activity on a separate form.)
  • If you applied through the online portal, Annual Use Reports will be submitting through the portal.
• The holder is to provide the area Superintendent upon request a statement of its gross receipts from its activities under this authorization and any other specific information related to the holder’s operations that the area Superintendent may request, including but not limited to, visitor use statistics, and resource impact assessments.

 

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 much does a CUA cost?

1. Annual Application Fee - 2025 (application fees are NON-REFUNDABLE):
   • $350 for first application, $250 for subsequent applications to same park in same calendar year.
2. Management Fee: In addition to the application fee, The NPS must charge CUA holders a management fee that at a minimum recovers the costs of all CUA management after application approval. CUA management includes, but is not limited to, correspondence with the CUA holder, in-the-field monitoring, and the mitigation of resource impacts caused by the commercial activity. Application and Management fees are through the online CUA Application and Reporting System.
   • Guided Mountaineering (Previously Single Trip Guided Climbs) – $1925.00
   • Camping Backcountry (Previously Summer Backpacking Overnight) – $900.00
   • Hiking Backcountry (Previously Summer Day Hiking) – $750.00
   • Bicycle Tours – $450.00
   • Photography Instruction – $650.00
   • Camping Front Country (Previously Drive-In Campground Use) - $450.00
   • Guided Winter Activities Day Use - $1250.00
   • Guided Winter Activities Overnight - $1250.00
   • Transport Non-Tour Road Based (Previously Shuttles) - $450.00

How do I apply for a Commercial Use Authorization?
CUA applications become available in September of each year. Please apply via the online portal. If you have a question about the CUA program, please contact us at [phone], or [phone], or by email.

What about Non-Profits?
Any organized group in which participants exchange money and/or employees are compensated for a service within Mount Rainier National Park is required to get a permit to operate in the Park. These organized groups include, but are not limited to, non-profits, city, state, and collegiate recreational programs, government municipality and military morale, welfare, and recreation programs, or those that offer fundraising climbs.  The Park recommends these organizations apply for a CUA, if the organization chooses. Since CUAs are issued in two-year terms, CUAs provide greater consistency for organizations and allow for better protection and management of the Park. If requested by a qualifying organization, the Commercial Services Program will instead accept Special Use Permit (SUP) in lieu of a Commercial Use Authorization (SUPilCUA) requests. SUPilCUA requests can be emailed to our office at [e-mail]. These permits are only valid for one year and are available on a first-come, first-served basis within the same guide qualifications and requirements as CUAs. Once limits have been reached, applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis as determined by carrying capacity per the Commercial Services Plan. Please contact the Commercial Services Office at [phone], or [phone], or email [e-mail] for more information.