Time Entry Reservations

Mount Rainier National Park, a jewel of the Pacific Northwest, has seen a significant surge in visitation over the last decade, with an approximate 40% increase leading to overcrowding and strain on its fragile ecosystems. In response, the park is rolling out a pilot timed entry reservation system in 2024 to enhance the visitor experience and protect its natural treasures. This system aims to manage congestion, reduce environmental impacts, and ensure that the majesty of Mount Rainier remains pristine for generations to come. The timed entry reservation system targets two of the park's most visited areas: the Paradise Corridor and the Sunrise Corridor. These corridors, renowned for their stunning landscapes, require separate vehicle reservations to access during peak hours from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. This measure addresses the critical need to mitigate overcrowding, especially during the bustling summer months. For the Paradise Corridor, which stretches from the Nisqually Entrance in the southwest to the Stevens Canyon Entrance in the southeast, timed entry reservations are mandatory from May 24 through September 2. The Sunrise Corridor, accessible via the White River Entrance in the northeast, requires reservations from July 3 through September 2. These reservations are essential, in addition to the standard park entrance fee or pass, and offer a single-day, per-vehicle access. Booking reservations is straightforward and can be done through Recreation.gov. The park has outlined specific dates for reservation releases, allowing visitors to plan their trips in advance. For the Paradise Corridor, reservations open on February 21 for visits from May 24 to June 30, on April 1 for July, and on May 1 for August to September. The Sunrise Corridor follows a similar pattern, with bookings starting on April 1 for July visits and on May 1 for August to September. Visitors who have already secured accommodations within the park, such as at the National Park Inn or Paradise Inn, or those with camping or wilderness permits, may not need a timed entry reservation for access on the day of their reservation. This flexibility ensures that those staying within the park can enjoy its beauty without the added step of securing a timed entry pass.