News Release

Recovery of climbers at Mount Rainier National Park

Date: January 22, 2026

ASHFORD, Wash. – Search and rescue operations at Mount Rainier National Park concluded with the recovery of two climbers from the Wilson Glacier area at approximately 9,600 feet in elevation. 

Park rangers initiated an inquiry on Jan. 18, 2026, after identifying overdue climbing permits. Emergency contacts reported that the two climbers had not been in contact since Jan. 17. Rangers later located the climbers’ vehicle in the Paradise parking lot. Searchers using spotting equipment subsequently observed two non-ambulatory individuals near Wilson Glacier. 

Weather conditions on Jan. 19 prevented aviation resources from accessing the area. Ground teams reached the location on Jan. 20 and confirmed two deceased individuals. Both were recovered and transported to the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office.

For additional information, please reach out to the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

www.nps.gov