Mount Rainier in the Winter

Know before you go

• You don't have to visit the National Park to have a Mount Rainier experience in the winter. Nearby Crystal Mountain Resort is the state's largest ski area, and features incredible views of Mount Rainier.
• Most winter visitors will want to use the Nisqually Entrance, which is open year round and provides access to the Longmire recreation area, which is also open year round.
• All vehicles must carry chains to enter the park in the winter. Depending on road conditions, chains must be put on non-4WD vehicles prior to entry.
• Weather and snow conditions vary. Check Mount Rainier National Park's Twitter feed and the NPS webcams before you leave for the Mountain.
• Dress appropriately for winter weather and whatever activity you're planning. Carry the 10 Essentials if you're going to explore the trails.

Winter activities at Mount Rainier

Ranger-led snowshoe tours at Mount Rainier National Park Each weekend in the winter, rangers lead free (by donation) snowshoe tours at the Paradise recreation area. Tours are on a first-come-first-served basis (so arrive early), and depart at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., as staffing allows. Snowshoes are provided. Here's a first-person account of a ranger-led snowshoe tour at Mount Rainier.

Professionally guided tours of Mount Rainier National Park Hiring a professional guide is an investment in a good experience. Most guides have years of experience on the mountain, and can create an individualized, safe, and exciting outing for you and your family. Plus, you don't have to worry about transportation, driving in icy conditions, or bringing your own snowshoes. What better way to see Mount Rainier than with a guide who knows the mountain's secrets?

Skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing at Crystal Mountain Crystal Mountain is the largest ski area in the state of Washington, and is now part of the world-famous Ikon multi-resort, unlimited access ski/snowboard season pass. From the top of the Mount Rainier Gondola at the summit of Crystal Mountain, you'll have access to some of the best views of Mount Rainier, and some of the best skiing anywhere.

Overnight

National Park Inn National Park Inn at Longmire is the only overnight accommodation open year round inside Mount Rainier National Park. Just a few miles inside the Nisqually Entrance, the National Park Inn has a dining room, nearby gift shop for last-minute supplies, and is adjacent to the Longmire Museum and miles of trails for recreation. The Trail of the Shadows is a short (less than one mile), flat trail with historical markers that's perfect for families. 

Cabins and Lodges In nearby Ashford and other communities around the Mountain, there are several cabins and lodges that offer accommodations that range from charmingly rustic to seriously luxurious. Make sure and check out our listings to find the right place for you. Crystal Mountain Hotels Crystal Mountain Hotels is the only place you'll find lodging right off the slopes with incredible alpine views, fine dining, and a lively pub, all in one place. 

Dining at Mount Rainier

When you're at Mount Rainier for exploring, hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or sledding, you're going to work up an appetite. Here are a few places you won't want to miss to fill your belly with all the energy you'll need for a day at the Mountain.