Mount Rainier Weather: Forecasts, Climate & Best Time to Visit

By Victoria Boissonade · Data: National Park Service · ← Complete guide Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier rises to 14,410 feet in Washington State, and its climate matches its stature. The Pacific sends weather systems across the volcano's slopes year-round: humidity, low-elevation rain, high-elevation snow, and rapid changes are all normal. In short, summer is short and bright (July and August), spring and fall are very wet, and winter is long and deeply snowy. Weather can turn in less than an hour, even in August.

Current Conditions at Mount Rainier

Conditions vary widely by elevation. It may be a sunny 68°F at Nisqually and 41°F under the snow at Paradise (5,400 feet) on the same day. Always check both elevations before you head out.

14-Day Forecast for Mount Rainier

In the mountains, forecasts beyond 72 hours are only a general guide. Use them to get the big picture, then adjust your plans as the days unfold.

Mount Rainier Climate Month by Month

The table below reflects climate normals at Longmire (2,756 feet), a reference area accessible year-round. At Paradise (5,400 feet), temperatures drop another 9 to 14°F, and precipitation, mostly snow in the cold season, is much heavier.

Climate from Season to Season

Winter (November to April)

Winter arrives early at higher elevations and leaves late. By November, Paradise starts piling up several feet of snow. The park is one of the snowiest places in the continental United States, and annual totals at Paradise regularly rank among the nation's records. Nisqually Entrance stays open year-round, but the road to Paradise may close during heavy snow or icy conditions, sometimes in the middle of the day. At Longmire, nighttime temperatures regularly fall below 23°F, and the wind makes it feel considerably colder.

Spring (April to June)

Spring is a long, wet season. Snow gradually melts at lower elevations, but Paradise may remain under several feet of snow through late June. Waterfalls reach peak flow in April and May as snowmelt feeds them. Wildflowers start appearing in June in the high-elevation meadows, as soon as the snow clears the ground. Trails above 3,937 feet are often muddy and partly snow-covered.

Summer (July to August)

July and August are the two months when the weather really comes through. Paradise is in peak wildflower season, and the days can be beautiful. Highs can reach 75°F at Longmire in good weather, while Paradise usually stays around 59 to 64°F. Keep in mind that even in mid-August, a thunderstorm can form without warning in the early afternoon, and temperatures drop quickly as you climb. We recommend starting hikes early in the morning so you can be back down before storms roll in.

Fall (September to November)

September often brings a few beautiful weeks of relief, with fiery foliage on the wooded slopes. But rain intensifies in October, and November marks the return of winter conditions at every elevation. High-elevation roads close one after another as snow accumulates. It's a quiet season for anyone willing to accept unpredictable weather.

Is Mount Rainier Cold? Records and Extremes

Yes, definitely. In winter, temperatures at Paradise commonly fall to 14°F, and cold snaps can be much more severe. Humidity and wind significantly intensify the chill, so the number on the thermometer isn't what really matters. At the other extreme, rare summer heat waves can push highs to 86°F at Longmire, but that's unusual. What you can count on is variability: a day that starts in sunshine can end in rain or snow at higher elevations.

The volcano also creates its own local weather. Thunderstorms can form directly over the summit while the lowlands remain clear. This is a mountain, not a postcard backdrop.

What to Wear in Each Season

The golden rule at Mount Rainier is to dress in layers and never underestimate the elevation.

Summer (July and August): moisture-wicking T-shirt, midlayer such as a light fleece or soft shell, and a waterproof windbreaker in your pack. Wear waterproof hiking shoes if you're going above 3,937 feet, where snow patches may linger.

Spring and fall: a real waterproof jacket, such as a Gore-Tex shell or equivalent, fleece or light puffy jacket, and water-resistant pants. A hat and gloves come in handy above 3,281 feet.

Winter: full mountain gear, with no shortcuts. Wear thermal base layers, a puffy jacket, a waterproof wind shell, a warm hat and gloves, and gaiters. Snow chains or snowshoes are required if you venture beyond Longmire.

In every season, sunscreen is essential at higher elevations. Snow and a thin cloud cover can reflect UV rays deceptively strongly.

Alerts and Conditions to Watch

Mount Rainier is an active volcano under constant USGS monitoring. The long-term seismic risk is real, but it doesn't affect day-to-day visiting conditions.

The alerts to watch before and during your visit are weather-related:

Road closures: State Route 706 to Paradise may close without warning during heavy snow or icy conditions. Check the NPS website the morning you leave. In winter, also check whether Nisqually Entrance is open.

Mountain thunderstorms: between June and September, thunderstorms can develop quickly in the afternoon, especially above 6,562 feet. If you're on a trail and hear thunder, descend immediately below the tree line and move away from ridges and open areas.

Flooding and trail closures: rapid spring snowmelt and heavy rain can cause flooding on park rivers, especially the Nisqually and Carbon River. Some low-elevation trails may close temporarily. Check conditions before choosing your route in the Mount Rainier hiking guide.

Frequently Asked Questions