A Guide to the Best Times to Visit Mt. Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park is one of the crown jewels of the Pacific Northwest. With its towering glacier-capped peaks, lush forests, vibrant wildflowers, and dramatic waterfalls, it’s no wonder so many nature lovers dream of making the trip. Whether you're planning a scenic drive, a day hike, or a relaxing getaway, here’s everything you need to know to visit Mt. Rainier from Seattle including the best times to visit, activities, and travel tips.

The best time to visit Mt. Rainier depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. No matter the time of year, remember that Seattle Seattle really only has one season: rain. So remember to pack your poncho!

• Summer (July to September) is peak season, with the most open roads, clear skies, and dazzling wildflower blooms—especially in the Paradise and Sunrise areas. Take advantage of Washington’s long summer days (sunrise around 5 a.m. and sunset after 9 p.m.) to head outdoors for hiking, photography, and full access to the park’s major attractions.

• Spring (May to June) is the shortest season but either of these is arguably the best month to visit Mt. Rainier. Spring snowmelt, roaring waterfalls, and fewer crowds. If you visit Mt. Rainier in May, expect to see some snow but gorgeous waterfall displays.

• Fall (late September to October) is quieter and colorful, offering vibrant foliage and a more relaxed vibe.

• Winter (November to April) transforms the park into a snowy paradise, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but access is more limited.

Planning a Mount Rainier National Park day trip? It takes about two hours to get there by car from Seattle. If you prefer not to drive, a few tour companies offer day trips from Seattle. While public transportation to the park itself is limited, guided tours often include transportation, park admission, and a knowledgeable guide.

The park started a timed entry program in 2024 to manage crowds. This program is seasonal and enforced during peak times (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Check the park’s website before your visit for entry information. 

Entry requires a parking pass. The park covers an area of nearly 370 square miles, so we recommend bringing or renting a car if you plan to explore multiple areas within the park.

Mount Rainier National Park has four main entrances. Nisqually Entrance (southwest) is the main gateway to Paradise and is the most popular. It has year-round access. Stevens Canyon Entrance (southeast) is a seasonal entrance connecting Ohanapecosh, Box Canyon, and Paradise.

The Carbon River Entrance (northwest) is a lesser-used entrance with rainforest-like scenery. The White River Entrance (northeast) offers access to Sunrise and is typically open from late June through September.

All vehicles are required to carry tire chains when traveling in the park during the winter season (November 1 through May 1). We recommend you check the weather and road conditions year-round at Mt Rainier before you head out. 

Paradise and Sunrise both have visitor centers with exhibits, maps, restrooms, and rangers on hand to answer questions. The park has limited food options, so bring snacks or a picnic. Greenlake Guest House has coolers you can borrow, and you can pick up a great picnic lunch in the Greenlake neighborhood bakery, Urban Bakery before you leave (they open at 6 a.m.). You can also hit up Layers Greenlake sandwich shop or PCC Grocery store.

Always carry water, especially on hikes. Dress in layers. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable at higher elevations. Arrive early, especially in summer, as parking lots at popular trailheads fill up quickly.

Washington is generally a dog-friendly state, but guests bringing their dogs should know that at Mount Rainier National Park they are not allowed on trails or in the wilderness area. They are permitted on roads, parking lots, and campgrounds, always on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Despite its size, you can visit Mount Rainier National Park in a single day. Here are some of the areas we recommend making time to see:

 

• Paradise: Arguably the most iconic area, Paradise offers stunning views of the mountain, the Nisqually Glacier, and a web of easy-to-moderate hiking trails like Skyline Trail and Myrtle Falls.

• Sunrise: The highest point in the park, reachable by car, offers panoramic views, subalpine meadows, and great hikes such as the Sunrise Rim Trail.

• Christine Falls & Narada Falls: These are beautiful stops on the way to Paradise with short, accessible walks.

• Grove of the Patriarchs: Walk across a suspension bridge to see ancient trees in a serene forest (note: check if this area is open, as it has been subject to seasonal closures).

On your way back to Seattle, we recommend stopping by the historic Copper Creek Restaurant just outside the park entrance in Ashford for an amazing blackberry pie or dinner.

No matter when you visit Mt. Rainier, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the things you can do inside the park:

Mount Rainier National Park has over 260 miles of trails for all skill levels. Try an easy walk like the Trail of the Shadows at Longmire, or go for a challenge on the Skyline Trail at Paradise or the Burroughs Mountain Trail at Sunrise. If you visit Mt Rainier in June or July, the meadows are full of wildflowers—lupine, paintbrush, and beargrass create a colorful display, especially at Paradise and Sunrise.

There are waterfalls throughout the park, including popular spots like Narada Falls and Christine Falls. For something quieter, check out Silver Falls near Ohanapecosh. The park is also great for photography, from sunrise views at Tipsoo Lake to fall colors in October. You might see marmots, deer, mountain goats, or birds—early mornings are best for spotting wildlife. During peak season, park rangers lead guided walks and evening programs that dive into the park’s geology, ecology, and cultural history.

In winter, the Paradise area is great for snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing. Snow covers the trails and trees, turning the park into a quiet winter escape. Just be sure to check road conditions and bring proper gear. 

Whether you're marveling at wildflower meadows in summer or snowshoeing through silent forests in winter, there’s no wrong time to visit Mt. Rainier. Book your stay in Seattle and see all that the area has to offer.

 

Photo Credit: © Kamchatka via canva.com