COVID-19 Visitor Guide for Healthy Access

The National Park Service is working to gradually increase access and services across all units of the National Park Service, including at Mount Rainier National Park. We are opening recreational access and services through a phased approach that aligns with guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local, state, and national opening plans. The health and safety of visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners remains our top priority. We are also working to ensure that our actions support local community public health objectives outside the park.

• CDC Guidance on How to Protect Yourself & Others
• National Park Service Public Health Update

As our facilities reopen, please remember to recreate responsibly and work together to protect each other in the outdoors during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. We appreciate your patience and your support of the national parks.

 

Key Changes for 2020-2021 Operations

• Download the Visitor Guide Winter 2021 for details about winter access, activities, safety information, and more. Copies are available at park entrances. Also check the Winter Recreation Opportunities News Release (12/17/20) for the latest information.
• Expect limited services. Many facilities may be closed. Make sure to check hours of operation. NOTE: The Jackson Visitor Center remains closed and there are no indoor warm facilities at Paradise this winter. Visitors will need to rely on personal vehicles for shelter during the day. Please plan accordingly.
• The Paradise snowplay/sledding area will not open until public health guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic are met and there is sufficient snow coverage. Learn more about winter recreation.
• Dogs are not allowed on trails or on snow in the park. Learn more about pets in the park.
• Many park roads close for the winter. Make sure to check road status and MountRainierNPS on Twitter (account not required to view) for updates. Learn more about winter at Mount Rainier.
• Wilderness permits are required for all overnight camping in the park's backcountry. During the winter season, October 2020-April 2021, self-register outside the Wilderness Information Centers (WICs) at Longmire, Paradise, White River, and Carbon River.
• Please wear face coverings on more popular trails so that it is safer to stay on the trail as you pass other visitors. Stepping off trail trammels sensitive species along the trails and causes costly trail damage and eyesores in our treasured landscapes. Now, more than ever, is a time to be courteous, considerate, and patient with other hikers on our trails.

 

Plan Your Visit

• 

  Can you get to where you're going?

  Road Status

  Find out current road conditions.

• 

  What's open where

  Operating Hours & Seasons

  Hours of operation for park visitor centers, inns, ranger stations, and other facilities.

• 

  Do you have a wilderness permit?

  Wilderness Camping

  Only a small part of the park can be reached by vehicles. Explore the rest through hiking and wilderness camping.

 

Duration:

4 minutes, 2 seconds

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, things are different this year. We invite you to enjoy Mount Rainier National Park but ask that you recreate responsibly. Help ensure a safe visit for you and your family as well as for the Mount Rainier community.

 

Recreate Responsibly Sticker Graphic

Graphic by recreateresponsibly.org

Recreate Responsibly - Winter Edition

Help protect yourself, protect others, and protect Mount Rainier National Park by recreating responsibly: https://www.recreateresponsibly.org.

• Know Before You Go - Some areas can become dangerous with winter conditions. Research your destination, as roads and facilities may be closed in winter.
• Plan Ahead - Check local conditions and prepare for the elements, packing extra layers, waterproof clothing, and avalanche safety gear for the backcountry.
• Practice Physical Distancing - Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth. When possible, opt to eat and rest outside. If you feel sick, stay home.
• Play It Safe - Know your limits and your gear. Slow down and choose lower-risk activities to reduce your risk of injury.
• Explore Locally - Consider exploring locally, as driving and parking may be more challenging in winter. If you travel, be mindful of your impact on Native and local communities.
• Leave No Trace - Did you know that the snow is our water supply? Keep our winter playgrounds clean. Pack out any human or pet waste. Be respectful of the land.
• Build An Inclusive Outdoors - Everyone deserves to experience a winter wonderland. Be an active part of making the outdoors safe, accessible, and welcoming for all identities and abilities.

 

NPS Recreate Responsibly