Best Time to Visit Mount Rainier: A Seasonal Guide (2025)

Wondering the best time to go to Mount Rainier?
My greatest ambition every summer is to catch wildflowers at peak bloom – a worthwhile pursuit to see the “most extravagantly beautiful of all the alpine gardens,” according to famed naturalist John Muir.
While the time to enjoy subalpine trails is relatively short (July – October), Mount Rainier has attractions for every season: spring waterfalls, summer meadows, fall colors, and winter snow. I visit the park year-round, prepared with the right gear to keep me safe.
➥ If you want to know the best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park and what it’s like every season, this guide is for you! I’ll share when to go for stunning wildflower views, why fall visits are spectacular, what to bring in winter, tips for managing crowds, and more.
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Rainier has five distinct areas: Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, Sunrise, and Carbon River. Longmire, Paradise, and Carbon River are open year-round, while Paradise and Sunrise are the most popular.
Best Time to Visit Mount Rainier
Mid-July to mid-August is generally the best time of year to visit Mount Rainier. Snow has usually melted from the trails and lakes, the landscape is lush, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is reliably good.
Early fall is stunning. But if I could visit only once a year, I’d choose late July for verdant scenery, flower-filled meadows, views of surrounding peaks still capped in snow, and waterfalls running strong.
Of course, you may not be able to visit during prime wildflower season or the most ideal conditions. Don’t worry – this national park is glorious all year long.
I share the best Mount Rainier activities for each season below!
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Timed Entry Reservations
From May to September 2024, the National Park Service (NPS) piloted a Timed Entry Reservation system to manage crowds.
NPS hasn’t yet released information for 2025, but I bet the reservation system is here to stay.
Things to Know
Timed Entry Reservations are required from 7:00am – 3:00pm during peak travel months, and you must book one in advance on Recreation.gov.
Outside of this period, you can enter the park without reservations. That said, when I exited the Nisqually gate at around 3:00pm on summer weekends, the line of cars I saw was a mile long!
The $2.00 reservation fee is non-refundable, and a Park Entrance Pass is also required.
Paradise Corridor Timed Entry Reservations
- Work for two entrances: the Nisqually Entrance and the Stevens Canyon Entrance.
- In 2024, the dates were May 24th – September 2nd.
- The Nisqually Entrance in Ashford, WA, is the busiest and most congested entrance.
Sunrise Corridor Timed Entry Reservations
- Works for the White River Entrance near Packwood, WA
- In 2024, the dates were July 4th – September 2nd.
What happens if you arrive before your 2-hour time window?
Based on my experience, it depends on the ranger, although practices may become more consistent in the program’s second year.
Arriving at Paradise an hour early, the ranger was kind and let us in without hesitation!
Arriving at Sunrise 15 minutes early, the ranger told us to turn around and return during our time window.
Mountain Views
Cloud cover often obscures Mount Rainier, even on seemingly clear sunny days.
It’s not uncommon for flying saucer-shaped, lenticular clouds to form over the summit, creating a striking sight. Thick layers of morning fog can also block views.
If the Mountain isn’t visible, you may still get views of the Tatoosh Range and other surrounding peaks. Alternatively, you can explore forest trails, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
Before every visit, I check the Mountain Forecast website because it shows weather conditions at varying elevations and tells me if “the Mountain is out.” This is local-speak for Rainier’s visibility.
When To See Wildflowers at Mount Rainier
Wildflower season is typically from mid-July to mid-August. The exact timing of peak bloom varies yearly due to weather patterns, but visits in late July have never disappointed me.
See Mount Rainier’s wildflower report on the NPS website for real-time updates.
Best Places to See Wildflowers
Wildflowers line the roads leading to the Paradise and Sunrise visitor centers, and you’ll find masses of blooms on the hiking trails starting from both main parking areas.
Top Hikes:
- Edith Creek (Paradise) – A short walk from the visitor center, continue walking over the bridge past Edith Creek for slopes filled with avalanche lilies.
- Sunrise Nature Trail (Sunrise) – My 70-year-old mother and I marveled at all the pasqueflower seedheads we saw along this easy hike.
- Indian Henry’s Hunting Ground (Longmire) – After a strenuous climb through old-growth forest, you’re rewarded with panoramic mountain views and meadow blooms.
- Spray Park (Carbon River) – This hike is steep but worth every step. In summer, the meadows and trails burst with color.
RELATED POST:
10 Tips to Avoid Crowds at Mount Rainier
Seasons at Mount Rainier: Conditions & Activities
Access depends on the season, road conditions, and closures, but you can generally count on the Longmire, Paradise, and Carbon River areas being open.
No matter the season, check the status of Rainier’s roads before embarking on your journey.
You must carry tire chains in your vehicle from November 1st to May 1st, even if you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, the weather is sunny and dry, and there’s no snow on the ground.
Spring (March – May)
Plan on recreating in the Longmire and Paradise areas. The remote Carbon River area is also open in spring.
Always check recent trip reports online, and be prepared to navigate over snow and muddy terrain.
March – April
Most of March is winter. Even after the 21st, you’ll still need to bring winter hiking gear.
Waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, and microspikes are essential. I once experienced a scary moment in April, route-finding in wet socks while the sun was going down, and I’ll never again forget to bring my gaiters!
Bringing snowshoes widens the activities and trails you can choose from. Without them, you may reach a point where your only option is to turn around—unless you don’t mind post-holing, when you sink deep into soft snow with each step, often up to your knees or thighs.
I wear mountaineering boots and crampons on the challenging Camp Muir hike, pictured above, especially on its steeper, icy terrain. Microspikes will suffice for most visitors doing easy-to-moderate snow hikes in Paradise or Longmire.
The Longmire General Store rents out snowshoes.
Top Hikes:
- Narada Falls via Lower Lakes Trail (Paradise): A short, scenic hike that offers spectacular views of Narada Falls.
- Carter Falls and Madcap Falls (Longmire): A moderate trail through trees with a river crossing and forested scenery along the way.
- Silver Falls Loop (Ohanapecosh): A scenic loop trail featuring Silver Falls. In spring, parking at the Stevens Canyon gate adds about 2 miles to your hike.
May
Higher elevation trails remain snow-covered while lower elevation trails begin to thaw. Snowmelt in spring at Mount Rainier is why rivers and waterfalls rush and roar!
Stevens Canyon Road and Chinook Pass (Hwy 410) open around Memorial Day weekend, depending on weather conditions.
A section of Sunrise Road may open in late May.
Summer (June – August)
The Sunrise corridor generally opens in early July, but check the NPS website for exact dates.
June to Mid-July
The landscape is covered in snow when I visit Paradise in June, except for the parking lot.
Reflection Lake, one of Paradise’s must-see destinations, typically remains frozen until mid-July. While this period is too early for wildflowers, you’ll see rushing waterfalls and lush green landscapes at lower elevations. Also, fewer crowds flock to Rainier during this time compared to the peak season of late July and August.
The hikes that can be done in spring can be enjoyed this time of year, too, with the bonus of longer days for exploring.
Top Hikes:
- Rampart Ridge Loop (Longmire): Hike this moderate loop trail clockwise for views of Eagle Peak and Rainier on clear days.
- Eagle Peak Trail (Longmire): A steep trail with varied terrain that provides panoramic views of the Tatoosh Range and the south face of Rainier.
- Shriner Peak Trail (Ohanapecosh): Your reward for this steep, strenuous hike is spectacular views of Rainier, Adams, Hood, and St Helens.
Mid-July to August
Peak hiking and camping season runs from mid-July through early September. Nearly all trails are snow-free, roads are open, and days are long, making this the best time for visiting Mount Rainier to experience the park’s full range of areas and activities.
Top Hikes:
- Tolmie Peak Trail (Carbon River): This moderate hike is a local favorite, offering sweeping views of Rainier and Eunice Lake from an old fire lookout.
- Comet Falls & Van Trump Park (Longmire): A must-do hike offering excellent views of the Tatoosh Range, Mount Adams, St Helens, Rainier, glaciers, and wildflower meadows.
- Burroughs Mountain Trail (Sunrise): A challenging hike with otherworldly views of the mountain’s eastern face from the Sunrise area.
The park receives the most visitors during this period, so see my section below for tips to avoid and manage crowds.
Fall (Late September – November)
The Sunrise corridor generally closes sometime in October.
Early fall can feel like summer, while winter conditions may begin as early as mid-October.
Late September – mid-October
The early fall season, from late September through early October, brings spectacular foliage to the park. Vibrant crimson and striking oranges and yellow fill the meadows and forests, glowing brightly on sunny days.
Fall at Mount Rainier is breathtaking—I once spent six hours on the Skyline Trail as a farewell to the summer hiking season, soaking in the scenery.
While the season isn’t as busy as summer, the week before snow and road closures begin bustles with visitors wanting to enjoy the hiking season’s grand finale.
Top Hikes:
- Skyline Trail (Paradise): Stunning fall foliage, in-your-face Rainier views, and panoramas of the Tatoosh Range make the tough elevation gain worth it.
- Naches Peak Loop (Sunrise): This popular, easy trail features fall colors and sweeping Rainier and Cascade Mountain views.
- Spray Park Trail to Mount Pleasant (Carbon River): Steep but rewarding, with waterfalls, fall colors, and mountain views.
Stevens Canyon, Sunrise, Mowich Lake, and other roads typically close for the season once conditions make travel unsafe. Check the status of Rainier’s roads before your fall visit.
Late-October – November
Winter conditions start setting in as the fall season progresses, often by mid to late October. The visitor center at Paradise transitions to being open on weekends only.
By November, much of the park is in its winter phase, so plan your visit accordingly, and bring a rain jacket!
Winter (December – February)
The Longmire, Paradise, and Carbon River areas remain open in winter, though the road between Longmire and Paradise is only open on weekends. The Carbon River area is remote, with access limited to foot and bicycle traffic past the park entrance.
Winter at Mount Rainier is all about snow activities, from snowshoeing to skiing. You can sign up for a ranger-guided snowshoe walk on weekends at Paradise or book a guided tour from Seattle.
Start your day early. The park requires visitors to leave Paradise and exit the Longmire gate by a specific time in the late afternoon.
Check with a ranger for the closing time rather than relying on the NPS website, as it may change due to weather conditions.
Top Hikes (Paradise):
- Nisqually Vista Trail: A short, easy, stunning trail perfect for kids or adults just learning to snowshoe.
- Narada Falls to Reflection Lakes: A moderate snowshoe trail offering incredible winter views of Narada Falls and frozen Reflection Lakes.
- Mazama Ridge: A moderate snowshoe route with breathtaking panoramic views of Rainier, Adams, and St Helens.
Unlike Paradise, Longmire is open on all weekdays in winter. Those who want to stay out of the snow can head to Longmire to check out the museum or enjoy views from the porch of the National Park Inn.
Gear & Safety
Winter weather can change quickly, so bring adequate gear, even on easier trails. I always bring snowshoes, even if recent trip reports suggest that microspikes are sufficient.
You can rent snowshoes and cross-country skis at the Longmire General Store.
My winter gear list includes:
- Microspikes
- Trekking poles
- Gaiters
- Extra socks
- Sunglasses (for snow glare)
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp with extra batteries
I wear insulated Icebug boots in winter and highly recommend them!
My winter safety checklist includes the following:
- Checking the weather forecast
- Knowing avalanche-risk areas to avoid
- Speaking with a ranger, if possible
- Bringing extra layers and snacks
- Driving out of the park’s winding roads before dark
Seasonal Weather Guide
The guide below briefly summarizes what to expect each season at Mount Rainier, including average temperatures.
Always check the forecast before your trip, and be sure to look up conditions for the specific area you plan to visit:
*Forecast links provided by the NPS website.
Spring (March – May)
In spring, temperatures range from 20°F to 50°F, with snow still blanketing subalpine trails at Paradise and Sunrise. March and April are winter-like, while May’s higher temperatures cause snow to start melting. Prepare for snow early in the season and rain, and expect lower elevation trails to be muddy and slick.
Summer (June – August)
Summer brings the most stable weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. Paradise and Sunrise trails will still be snow-covered in June, and rain is likely. Hiking trails are typically clear by mid-July. Climbers headed to Camp Muir should be prepared for wind and quickly changing weather.
In case you’re wondering, yes, it rains in summer, especially in early June. Rain in July and August isn’t typical, but it can happen. It’s wise to come prepared with a rain jacket, no matter the season. It’s the Pacific Northwest, after all!
Fall (September – November)
Early fall mirrors summer, while cold weather sets in by mid-October. Temperatures range from 30°F to 60°F, days are noticeably shorter, and snowfall begins. Park roads like Sunrise and Stevens Canyon generally close by November, and rain becomes more frequent, especially at lower elevations.
Winter (December – February)
Winter’s daytime temperatures range from 15°F to 40°F. Snow activities like snowshoeing and skiing abound, as deep snow blankets the area. Many roads remain closed, with Longmire and Paradise being the only accessible areas by car. Be prepared for icy conditions, rain, snow, and limited daylight.
Tips to Avoid & Manage the Crowds
Below are tips for an enjoyable visit, even during the park’s busiest times.
Visiting during peak summer months?
- Plan your visit for Monday through Thursday to avoid weekend crowds.
- Arrive early. Even on weekends in July and August, getting to the Nisqually Entrance before 7am helps you avoid lines and find parking. After 7am, you’ll need a Timed Entry Reservation.
Arriving later in the day?
- After 3pm, Timed Entry Reservations are no longer needed, but lines at the Nisqually Entrance persist. Plan to arrive after 4 or 5pm to avoid the wait, and with daylight lasting until 9pm, you’ll still have time to explore.
EDITOR’S TIP:
To avoid congestion, stay in Packwood and use the Stevens Canyon Entrance instead of the Nisqually gate, which also leads to Paradise.
Explore Sunrise
- For a more relaxed experience, enter through the White River Entrance and head to Sunrise, which is far less crowded than Paradise.
Have a Plan B ready
- My favorites include a trip to Alder Lake, a scenic drive on Chinook Pass with a stop near Tipsoo Lake, or riding the gondola at Crystal Mountain for excellent views of Mount Rainier.
Check out this guide for more details and tips on avoiding summer crowds!
FAQs: Best Time to Go to Mount Rainier
★ When is the best time to visit Mt Rainier wildflowers?
Mid-July to early August is the best time to see wildflowers at Mount Rainier. For the best chance to see peak blooms, visit in late July. The meadows around Paradise and Sunrise offer stunning displays of wildflowers like avalanche lilies and pink mountain heather without requiring strenuous hikes.
★ When is the best time to avoid crowds at Mount Rainier?
To avoid crowds during peak summer months, visit Monday through Thursday and arrive early in the morning. You can also explore less crowded areas like Sunrise, Longmire, or Carbon River. Consider visiting in late September through early October, when the park sees fewer and offers fantastic fall foliage.
★ When can I hike without snow at Mount Rainier?
Most popular higher-elevation trails around Paradise and Sunrise are snow-free from mid-July through early to mid-October, making this the best window for clear, accessible hiking. If you visit in June or early July, lower-elevation trails around Longmire may already be snow-free.
★ What are the best activities at Mount Rainier in each season?
In spring, waterfall hikes are impressive as snowmelt results in rushing waters. Summer is ideal for wildflower hikes, long days of exploring, and camping. Fall brings vibrant foliage, perfect for hiking and photography. In winter, snowshoeing and skiing around Paradise are the top activities.
★ What time of day is best to visit Mount Rainier for clear views?
Mornings offer the best chance for clear views of Rainier, although some mornings feature low-lying fog that can obscure views. As the day progresses, clouds can build up, covering the peak. If your schedule allows, wait to hike Paradise or Sunrise trails that feature the mountain until a clear day is forecasted.
Wrap-Up: When to Visit Mount Rainier National Park
Mid-July to mid-August is the best time to visit Mount Rainier National Park for ideal hiking conditions, blooming wildflowers, and lush, vibrant landscapes. Thoughtful planning will help you navigate summer crowds.
But each season offers something stunning and unique. From roaring spring waterfalls and blazing fall colors to winter’s snowy wonderland, Mount Rainier provides unforgettable experiences year-round.
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