Acting Superintendent Tracy Swartout advises that Mount Rainier has transitioned to winter hours of operation and service.

Warmer than average temperatures, several flood events and high winds marked an interesting end to November and start to December.  Winter recreation demand will be increasing as temperatures cool and the holidays approach.  The entire Mount Rainier Team, including its concessioners, partners and scores of volunteers, is preparing for winter operations and visitors.

The entire park is open for visitor use throughout the winter, including overnight winter camping with a valid permit. However, access may be dependent on road conditions. Campers should plan their travels with an understanding of nightly gate closures. Overnight camping in vehicles is not permitted in the park.

For winter camping reservations call 360-569-6575 between 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As in past years, the main gate at the southwest entrance to the park (Nisqually) will remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week unless hazardous conditions require a temporary closure.  The higher elevation gate, located on the road between Longmire and Paradise, is closed nightly to ensure visitor and staff safety.  The target open hours for the road above Longmire will continue to be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the uphill gate between Longmire and Paradise closing at 4 p.m. to allow time for visitors and staff to exit safely.  State Routes 410 and 123, Stevens Canyon and the Mowich Lake Roads are closed for the winter.