From small amphibians and hoary marmots to the black bears and elk, many animals call the wild places of Mount Rainier home.
Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems. A lifetime of discovery awaits.
Superintendent Greg Dudgeon announced today the park will accept Commercial Use Authorization applications through the National Park Service’s online portal starting September 1, 2026 for Bicycle Tours, Camping – Backcountry (formerly Summer Backpacking), Camping – Frontcountry (formerly Drive-in Camping), Guided Motorized Tour – 15 passengers or less, Hiking – Backcountry (formerly Summer Day Hiking), Road-based Commercial Tour, and Transport (non-tour) activities.
Beginning Friday, June 26, 2026, until lifted, Mount Rainier National Park will implement a parkwide fire ban. All campfires and the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, and barbeque grills will be prohibited. This ban is in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildland fire.
State Route 410/Chinook Pass and SR 123/Cayuse Pass through Mount Rainier National Park will reopen for the season by 8 a.m. Friday, May 22, in time for Memorial Day weekend.
The National Park Service and the Washington State Department of Transportation are seeking public input on a proposed project to reduce flooding and erosion risks to a section of State Route 410 adjacent to the White River in Mount Rainier National Park.
Mount Rainier National Park will not implement a timed entry reservation for any portion of the park in 2026. The park will use parking management strategies to maximize available capacity and remains committed to ensuring visitor access while protecting park resources and maintaining safe, enjoyable experiences.