Mount Rainier National Park features several entrances, each offering unique access based on your location and time of year. Whether you’re heading to Paradise, Sunrise, or the Carbon River Rainforest, choosing the right entrance helps you make the most of your visit. This guide highlights all main access points, including seasonal availability and direction-based recommendations.
Main Park Entrances
Mount Rainier National Park features several primary entrances, each offering unique access points to various parts of the park. Choosing the right entrance is essential for optimizing your visit based on your planned activities, the season, and your point of origin.
Nisqually Entrance (Southwest)
The Nisqually Entrance is the most popular and the only entrance open year-round to vehicles. Located near the town of Ashford, Washington, it provides direct access to Longmire and Paradise, two of the park’s most visited areas. This entrance is ideal for visitors coming from Seattle or Portland, as it is the most direct route from the west.
- Address: 39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304
- Closest Cities: Ashford (6 miles), Tacoma (65 miles), Seattle (95 miles)
- Open: Year-round (weather permitting)
Carbon River Entrance (Northwest)
Located near the town of Carbonado, the Carbon River Entrance is a less trafficked access point that leads to the park’s northwest corner. This entrance provides access to the Carbon River Rainforest and Mowich Lake area. However, the road beyond the entrance is only open to foot and bicycle traffic due to past flood damage.
- Closest Cities: Carbonado (7 miles), Enumclaw (30 miles)
- Open: Year-round for foot and bike access; limited vehicle access
- Note: Mowich Lake Road is typically open late June through October
White River Entrance (Northeast)
The White River Entrance is the main access point for Sunrise, the highest point in the park reachable by vehicle. It is the preferred entry for those coming from the northeast, including visitors from the Seattle area via Highway 410. This entrance is seasonal and typically open from late June through early October.
- Closest Cities: Enumclaw (45 miles), Seattle (85 miles)
- Open: Seasonally (generally late June to early October)
- Note: Check road status especially early or late in the season
Stevens Canyon Entrance (Southeast)
The Stevens Canyon Entrance offers access to the southeast portion of the park and is a convenient route to reach the Ohanapecosh area and the scenic Stevens Canyon Road. It is popular for visitors coming from Yakima or eastern Washington. This road is also seasonal and subject to closure in winter.
- Closest Cities: Packwood (12 miles), Yakima (80 miles)
- Open: Seasonally (typically late May through October)
- Note: Ideal for summer and early fall visits
Accessibility from Major Cities
- Seattle, WA: Roughly 2 hours to the Nisqually Entrance via I-5 South and WA-7 S
- Portland, OR: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to Nisqually via I-5 North
- Yakima, WA: Around 2 hours to Stevens Canyon Entrance via US-12 W
- Tacoma, WA: About 1.5 hours to Nisqually Entrance
Each entrance offers distinct scenery and access to different regions of the park. Visitors are advised to check current road conditions and seasonal closures on the National Park Service website before traveling.
Getting to the Entrances
Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington state, approximately 60 miles southeast of Seattle and 140 miles northeast of Portland. The park is accessible year-round, though some entrances and roads are subject to seasonal closures due to weather conditions. Knowing which entrance to use depends largely on your direction of travel, the time of year, and your planned activities within the park.
Main Entrances to Mount Rainier National Park
There are four primary vehicle-accessible entrances to Mount Rainier National Park:
Nisqually Entrance (Southwest)
- Location: Near Ashford, WA, on State Route 706.
- Access: This is the most popular and only entrance open year-round to vehicles.
- Best For: Visitors coming from Tacoma or Seattle; access to Longmire and Paradise areas.
- GPS Address: 39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304.
Carbon River Entrance (Northwest)
- Location: Near the town of Wilkeson, via State Route 165.
- Access: Open year-round to foot and bicycle traffic; road beyond entrance is closed to vehicles due to past flood damage.
- Best For: Hiking, biking, and access to the Carbon River rainforest and Ipsut Creek Campground.
White River Entrance (Northeast)
- Location: Off State Route 410, near the town of Enumclaw.
- Access: Typically open from late May through mid-October, depending on snow.
- Best For: Sunrise area, campgrounds, and high-elevation hiking.
- Note: The road to the Sunrise Visitor Center opens later in the summer due to snowpack.
Stevens Canyon Entrance (Southeast)
- Location: Accessible off Highway 123, near Ohanapecosh.
- Access: Seasonal; generally open from late spring until early fall.
- Best For: Access to Stevens Canyon Road, Box Canyon, and Ohanapecosh area.
Directions from Major Cities
- From Seattle: Take I-5 south to State Route 512 East, then SR 7 South to Elbe, and follow SR 706 to the Nisqually Entrance.
- From Portland: Take I-5 north to US-12 East, then follow WA-123 North to Stevens Canyon Entrance or continue to SR 7 North to reach Nisqually.
- From Yakima: Take US-12 West to WA-123 North for access to the Stevens Canyon Entrance.
Transportation Options
- Private Vehicle: The most convenient and flexible way to access the park. Most visitors arrive by car.
- Public Transit: Limited seasonal shuttle service may be available from nearby towns like Ashford during peak summer months.
- Tours and Shuttles: Some private operators offer guided tours from Seattle and Tacoma.
Accessibility Considerations
- Year-Round Access: Only the Nisqually Entrance remains open throughout the year.
- Winter Travel: From November to May, tire chains are required for all vehicles, regardless of weather, due to unpredictable snow and ice conditions.
- Road Closures: Check the National Park Service website for real-time updates on road conditions and closures, especially during spring thaw or after severe weather.
Travelers are encouraged to plan their route in advance and verify entry availability, especially during shoulder seasons when weather can quickly change accessibility.
Entrance Fees and Passes
Mount Rainier National Park requires an entrance fee for all visitors. Fees help maintain the park's facilities, preserve its natural resources, and support visitor services. There are several options for gaining entry, depending on the type and duration of your visit, as well as eligibility for special passes.
Standard Entrance Fees
- Private Vehicle Pass: $30 – Valid for 7 consecutive days. Covers all occupants of a single, non-commercial vehicle.
- Motorcycle Pass: $25 – Also valid for 7 consecutive days. Covers entry for one or two people on a single motorcycle.
- Per Person (Walk-in/Bicycle): $15 – For individuals entering on foot or by bike, valid for 7 consecutive days.
These fees grant access to all areas of Mount Rainier National Park, regardless of which entrance you use (Nisqually, Carbon River, White River, or Stevens Canyon).
Annual and Multi-Park Passes
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Mount Rainier Annual Pass: $55 – Provides unlimited entry to Mount Rainier National Park for one year from the month of purchase. This pass admits the pass holder and all accompanying passengers in a single, non-commercial vehicle.
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America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass: $80 – Valid for one year and provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all U.S. national parks. Ideal for frequent travelers or those planning to visit multiple parks.
Special Passes
The National Park Service offers several special passes for eligible groups:
- Senior Pass: $20 annually or $80 lifetime – Available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older. Grants access to all national parks and federal lands.
- Access Pass: Free – For U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Includes the same benefits as the Senior Pass.
- Military Pass: Free – Available to current U.S. military members and their dependents, as well as veterans and Gold Star families.
- 4th Grade Pass (Every Kid Outdoors): Free – Available to U.S. 4th grade students during the school year. Covers entry for the student and accompanying passengers.
Where and How to Purchase Passes
Passes can be purchased in several ways:
- Online: Passes such as the America the Beautiful pass can be purchased through the official USGS store.
- In Person: Purchase entrance passes at staffed entrance stations, such as the Nisqually Entrance (the park’s most commonly used entrance, located on the southwest side near Ashford, WA), or at visitor centers like the Longmire Museum or Paradise Jackson Visitor Center.
- Digital Passes: Mount Rainier also participates in the Recreation.gov digital pass system. Visitors can buy a timed-entry pass or park entrance pass online and present it digitally upon arrival.
Visitors are encouraged to check current fees and pass availability on the official Mount Rainier National Park website before their trip, as rates and policies can change.
Operating Hours and Seasonal Information
Mount Rainier National Park is open year-round, but access to certain areas and facilities varies by season. Most visitor centers and roads are only fully operational from late spring to early fall, typically late May through early October, depending on snow conditions. During the winter months, heavy snowfall often leads to road closures and limited services, especially in higher elevation areas such as Sunrise and Mowich Lake.
The Nisqually Entrance (southwest) is the only entrance open to vehicles year-round, providing access to the Longmire and Paradise areas. Other entrances, including White River (northeast), Stevens Canyon (southeast), and Carbon River (northwest), are generally accessible from late spring to early fall.
Daily hours for visitor centers and park facilities also vary by season. It's recommended to check the National Park Service (NPS) website for current hours and seasonal updates before your visit.
Weather Conditions and Considerations
Weather in Mount Rainier National Park can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Summers are generally mild and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. However, snow can linger into July at higher elevations, and sudden storms are not uncommon.
In the winter months, expect frequent snowstorms, icy roads, and potential avalanche conditions. Snow chains may be required on vehicles during this time, especially when visiting areas like Paradise, which remains accessible but requires winter driving readiness.
Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather shifts, particularly if planning hikes or high-elevation excursions. Always check the latest weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
Fee Structure and Pass Options
Mount Rainier National Park charges an entrance fee, which is valid for seven consecutive days:
- Private vehicle: $30
- Motorcycle: $25
- Individual (on foot or bicycle): $15
Annual and lifetime passes offer more cost-effective options for frequent visitors:
- Mount Rainier Annual Pass: $55
- America the Beautiful National Parks Pass: $80 (covers entry to all U.S. national parks and federal recreation lands)
- Senior Pass: $20 (annual), $80 (lifetime)
- Access Pass: Free for U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities
- Military and Veteran Pass: Free with valid ID
Passes can be purchased online via recreation.gov, at entrance stations, or at visitor centers.
Visitor Center Locations and Services
Mount Rainier National Park is home to several visitor centers, each providing services such as exhibits, maps, ranger-led programs, restrooms, and bookstores. Key visitor centers include:
- Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center (Paradise): The park’s main visitor center, open year-round with extensive exhibits, information desks, and a café.
- Longmire Museum and Information Center: Located in the southwest region, open year-round with historical exhibits and park information.
- Sunrise Visitor Center: Open seasonally (typically July through September), offering panoramic views and hiking information.
- Ohanapecosh Visitor Center: Located in the southeast, open seasonally with cultural exhibits and forest ecology displays.
It’s best to start your visit at one of these centers to get updated trail conditions, safety tips, and maps. Rangers can also help tailor your itinerary based on weather, time constraints, and fitness level.
Getting There & Access
Physical Address and Main Entrance Locations
Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington state and is accessible year-round through several official entrances. The most commonly used and only entrance open year-round is the Nisqually Entrance, located on the park's southwest side. The physical address for GPS navigation is:
Nisqually Entrance Address:
39000 State Route 706 E, Ashford, WA 98304
This entrance is the primary gateway for most visitors and provides access to the Longmire and Paradise areas.
Other seasonal entrances include:
- White River Entrance (Northeast): Access point for Sunrise area; typically open from late June to early October.
- Stevens Canyon Entrance (Southeast): Connects to the Ohanapecosh and Paradise areas; usually open from late May through early November.
- Carbon River Entrance (Northwest): Access to the Carbon River Rainforest and Mowich Lake; partially open to vehicles but popular with hikers and bikers.
Directions
From Seattle (approximately 2 hours):
- Take I-5 South to WA-512 East
- Merge onto WA-7 South toward Eatonville
- Continue on WA-706 East to Ashford and the Nisqually Entrance
From Portland (approximately 2.5–3 hours):
- Take I-5 North to US-12 East
- Follow signs to WA-7 North
- Connect to WA-706 East into Ashford
Transportation Options
There is no public transportation directly into Mount Rainier National Park. Visitors typically arrive by private vehicle. During the summer season, limited shuttle services may operate within the park, especially in the Paradise area.
Nearby airports include:
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Approximately 85 miles from the Nisqually Entrance
- Portland International Airport (PDX): About 130 miles away
Rental vehicles are available at both airports.
Accessibility Considerations
Many areas of the park offer accessible facilities, including restrooms, visitor centers, and viewpoints. The Paradise and Longmire areas have paved paths and accessible trails such as the Trail of the Shadows near Longmire. The National Park Service provides detailed accessibility guides on its official website.
Planning Your Visit
Operating Hours and Seasonal Information
Mount Rainier National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, access to certain areas is highly seasonal due to snowfall and road closures.
- Paradise and Longmire: Accessible year-round, with limited services in winter
- Sunrise: Typically open from late June through September
- Ohanapecosh and Stevens Canyon: Open late spring through early fall
- Carbon River and Mowich Lake: Seasonal access varies; roads may be unpaved or closed to vehicles
Weather Conditions
Weather in the park can change rapidly and varies by elevation. Summer (July–September) offers the most stable weather and clear views of Mount Rainier. Winter months bring heavy snowfall, especially at higher elevations like Paradise, and require tire chains.
Daily forecasts and road status updates are available on the park’s official website or by calling the recorded information line.
Fee Structure and Pass Options
Entrance fees are required for all vehicles and visitors entering Mount Rainier National Park:
- Private Vehicle (valid for 7 days): $30
- Motorcycle: $25
- Individual (on foot or bicycle): $15
- Mount Rainier Annual Pass: $55
- America the Beautiful Annual Pass (all national parks): $80
Discounted or free passes are available for:
- Seniors (Lifetime or Annual)
- U.S. Military personnel
- Access Pass for individuals with permanent disabilities
- 4th Grade Students (Every Kid Outdoors program)
Passes can be purchased at entrance stations, online via recreation.gov, or at authorized retailers.
Visitor Center Locations and Services
- Longmire Museum and Wilderness Information Center: Open year-round; provides trail info, exhibits, and backcountry permits
- Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center (Paradise): Open daily in summer and weekends in winter; includes exhibits, a bookstore, food services, and restrooms
- Sunrise Visitor Center: Open seasonally (late June–September); offers ranger programs, maps, and interpretive displays
- Ohanapecosh Visitor Center: Seasonal operation; focuses on old-growth forest ecology and area-specific information
Each visitor center provides maps, park publications, and knowledgeable rangers to assist with trip planning.
Technology & Communication
Internet Availability
Wi-Fi is limited within the park and generally unavailable in most areas. Some visitor centers like Longmire and Paradise may offer limited connectivity, but it is not guaranteed.
Cellular Coverage
Cell service within Mount Rainier National Park is spotty at best. Some coverage may be available at lower elevations or near the Nisqually and Longmire areas. Visitors are advised to download maps and trail guides in advance.
Digital Resources
Before visiting, consider using or downloading:
- The official NPS app (National Park Service App)
- Offline maps from apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS
- Park alerts and trail conditions from the Mount Rainier National Park website
Emergency Communication Options
In case of emergency:
- Dial 911 (if service is available)
- Use emergency phones located at visitor centers
- Inform park rangers of incidents if no phone is available
Visitors are encouraged to carry a printed map and let someone know their itinerary.
Important Visitor Information
Current Alerts and Notifications
Before your visit, check the park’s official website for updates on:
- Road closures
- Trail conditions
- Fire restrictions
- Weather warnings
Real-time alerts are also posted at entrance stations and visitor centers.
Safety Guidelines
- Always stay on designated trails
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes
- Carry essentials: water, food, layers, map, and a flashlight
- Wildlife is common; keep a safe distance and never feed animals
- Avalanche risk is high in winter; check snow conditions before entering backcountry
Park Regulations
- Pets are only allowed in developed areas and must be on a leash
- Drones are prohibited throughout the park
- Campfires are restricted in some areas during fire season
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect natural resources
Seasonal Closures
Due to heavy snowfall, many roads and trails close between October and June. Key seasonal closures include:
- Sunrise Road: Closed in winter, typically reopens in late June
- Stevens Canyon Road: Closes around November and reopens in late spring
- Mowich Lake Road: Unpaved and subject to early seasonal closure
Always consult the park’s road status page before your trip.
Park Resources & Facilities
Visitor Center Amenities
Most visitor centers offer:
- Park maps and brochures
- Educational exhibits
- Restrooms
- Bookstores
- Ranger information desks
The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise also includes a cafeteria and gift shop.
Educational Programs
Seasonally, the park offers:
- Ranger-led hikes and talks
- Junior Ranger programs for children
- Special event weekends
- Evening campfire programs (in campgrounds)
Schedules are posted at visitor centers and online.
Available Services
- Lodging: Available at National Park Inn (Longmire) and Paradise Inn (seasonal)
- Campgrounds: Ohanapecosh, Cougar Rock, and White River (seasonal, reservations required)
- Food and Supplies: Limited concessions at Paradise and Longmire
Nearest full-service towns include Ashford (west) and Packwood (southeast).
Facility Hours
Hours vary seasonally. As a general guide:
- Longmire Museum: Open year-round, 9 AM – 4:30 PM
- Jackson Visitor Center (Paradise): Daily in summer, weekends in winter; 10 AM – 5 PM
- Sunrise and Ohanapecosh Centers: Open from late June to September
Check online for current hours before visiting.
Mount Rainier National Park offers four distinct entrances, each with their own advantages depending on your route, season, and planned activities. Whether you're coming from the west for winter adventures at Paradise or entering from the northeast for high-alpine views at Sunrise, careful planning ensures a smooth, enjoyable visit. Always check the latest road and weather updates from the National Park Service before you go.