National park · Washington

Mount Rainier National Park

Protects a 14,411-foot active stratovolcano draped with 25 named glaciers — the most glaciated peak in the Lower 48 — and the wildflower meadows of Paradise. Established in 1899 as America's fifth national park.

Entrance
$30 private vehicle
Hours
Open 24 hours daily Mount Rainier National Park
Established
March 2, 1899
Region
Pacific Northwest
Mount Rainier National Park
Photo: NPS Photo · Public domain (US National Park Service)
The Mount Rainier National Park patch

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History

Mount Rainier National Park was established as the fourth national park in the United States, preserving a significant glaciated volcano and its surrounding ecosystems. It showcases early National Park Service architecture and serves as a vital area for conservation and recreation.

Key events

  1. March 2, 1899Mount Rainier National Park established by Congress; the fifth U.S. national park.
  2. 1888John Muir reached the summit of Mount Rainier, helping launch the campaign for its protection.
  3. 1962Mount Rainier was the first U.S. national park to be designated a National Historic Landmark District for its New Deal-era Rustic-style buildings.

Trails

  • Skyline Trail Loop 5.5 mi · Hard
  • Berkeley Park Trail 7.6 mi · Moderate
  • Fremont Lookout Trail 5.6 mi · Moderate
  • Nisqually Vista Trail 1.2 mi · Easy
  • Spray Park Trail 8 mi · Hard

Plan your visit

Hours · Mount Rainier National Park

Open 24 hours, every day

Mount Rainier National Park is open all year. Visitation peaks in July and August with warmer weather and blooming wildflowers. In spring and autumn, weather determines the availability of facilities and roads. During winter months a number of roads, facilities, and entrances close for the season.

Entrance fees

  • Private Vehicle $30
  • Per Person $15
  • Motorcycle $25

Fees and hours as of May 2026. Check current details on NPS.gov

When to go

  • Summer. Peak wildflowers mid-July to mid-August, all trails open
  • Fall. Fall colors, fewer crowds, clear views
  • Winter. Snowshoeing, skiing at Paradise, snowy scenery
  • Spring. Melting snow, waterfalls at peak, limited high trail access

Wildlife

Black bearsMountain goatsMarmotsElkDeerPikaGolden eaglesPeregrine falcons

Nearby patches

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