Wilderness Camping and Hiking

PLEASE READ! WILDERNESS-RELATED ALERTS

 
Hiking in Grand Park
On the trail in Grand Park

Permits are not required for day hiking. However, camping overnight in the wilderness at Mount Rainier requires a permit.

Permits may be reserved in advance by visiting Recreation.gov, or be obtained in person at park Wilderness Information Centers. Visit the Wilderness Permits page for more information.

In the winter, permits are still required and available through self-registration outside of Wilderness Information Centers, or at the SR410 entrance arch at the park's north boundary once the road closes for the season. Check the Wilderness Permit page for details. Learn more about winter recreation, including winter camping. Winter camping ends by May 15 each spring.

Hiking for Beginners
New to hiking or interested in hiking with kids? Check out Hiking 101 to get started! Mount Rainier National Park has trails ranging from easy to extremely challenging. Learn more about day hiking, including options for shorter trails, or explore other trails of Mount Rainier.

 
A sign next to a path leading to a rustic building reads "Wilderness Information Center - Permits".
Wilderness Permits

A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping. Learn how to reserve a permit or acquire a first-come, first-served permit.

A single log forms a footbridge over a rocky creek on a mountain slope.
Trail & Backcountry Camp Conditions

Trail and wilderness camp conditions are updated during the summer months.

Three large metal storage lockers set up outside with a sign reading "Wonderland Trail Food Cache."
Caching Food and Fuel

Hikers on the Wonderland Trail can cache food and fuel at several locations along the 93-mile route during the summer.

A narrow dirt trail climbs up a meadow slope next to a creek towards a rocky ridge.
Wilderness Guidelines & Regulations

Help protect Mount Rainier's wilderness while having a safe trip by following these guidelines and regulations.

Two climbers scale a deep snowy slope high above the surrounding mountain ranges.
Climbing

Scaling the heights of Mount Rainier can be exciting as well as technically and physically demanding. Prepare for a safe climb.

A family walks along a trail through a meadow with a view of Mount Rainier.
Day Hiking

From short family-friendly nature trails to mid-length trails, the park has a variety of options for day hiking.

A hiker follows a trail along a ridge towards Mount Rainier.
Trails of Mount Rainier

The park has over 275 miles of maintained trails to take you from forest paths to subalpine ridges. Find the trail for you!

A screenshot of a map of Mount Rainier National Park shaded in green with numerous icons.
Park Maps

Maps of Mount Rainier National Park, including the Wilderness Trip Planner Map and area trail maps.

An RV parked at a campsite.
Campgrounds

Camp in one of the park's three drive-in campgrounds.

A road curves up the side of a valley towards Mount Rainier.
Road Status

Find out current road conditions, including access to Paradise during the winter season.

Clouds swirl around the snowy peaks of the Tatoosh Range.
Weather

Be prepared for Mount Rainier's changeable weather.

A hiker crosses a long suspension bridge over a rocky river.
Hiking Safety

No matter the length of your hike, being aware of risks can help make your hiking experience safe and enjoyable!

A skier on a snowy slope mostly obscured by fog.
Spring Hiking Safety (April-June)

It's easy to underestimate the hazards of hiking at higher elevations still covered in snow. Follow these tips for safely hiking on snow.

Last updated: August 23, 2024

Contact Info

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55210 238th Avenue East
Ashford, WA 98304

Phone:

360 569-2211

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