Mt. Rainier: A Winter Wonderland Full of Snowy Activities
Mt. Rainier turns into a quiet and snowy world each winter. With deep snow, open views, and peaceful trails, it’s a great place to explore during the colder months. The pace is slower. The air is crisp. And the landscape feels fresh and quiet.
This guide highlights the best winter activities at Mt. Rainier, including hikes, snowshoeing, sledding, and camping. If you're planning a winter getaway, here’s how to make the most of your visit.
Exploring Trails: Winter Hikes and Snowshoeing at Mt. Rainier
Hiking and snowshoeing are among the most popular winter activities on Mt. Rainier. Both let you explore the park’s trails in winter, but the type of trail and depth of snow will determine which one you need.
- Winter hiking is ideal for lower-elevation trails where the snow is shallow or packed down. You typically only need waterproof boots and traction devices, such as microspikes.
- Snowshoeing is best for deeper snow, where regular boots would sink. Snowshoes help you walk across snowy meadows and forests without getting stuck.
Popular routes include:
- Trail of the Shadows (Longmire): Easy, short, and scenic. Great for walking in regular winter boots.
- Narada Falls: A short hike with a frozen waterfall view in colder months.
- Rampart Ridge: More advanced with uphill climbs and forested ridge views.
- Nisqually Vista Trail: A great snowshoe loop near Paradise with mountain views on clear days.
- Mazama Ridge: Perfect for snowshoes and open snowfield exploration.
During weekends and holidays, rangers often lead guided snowshoe walks from the Paradise area. These fill up quickly, so be sure to check the park website for dates and availability before you visit.
Always dress in layers, bring snacks, carry water, and check the trail and weather conditions before hitting the trail. Snow depth and safety can change quickly during the winter months.
Mt. Rainier Skiing and Sledding
There are no ski resorts inside Mt. Rainier National Park, but there are still opportunities for sledding and backcountry skiing.
Sledding is allowed only at the Paradise Snowplay Area, which opens when snow levels are safe, usually late December through March.
Know the rules before sledding:
- Only soft plastic sleds or inner tubes are allowed.
- Metal or hard-edged sleds are not permitted.
- Sledding is only allowed in the designated Snowplay Area.
Backcountry skiing is allowed in certain parts of the park. This is for advanced users only and requires avalanche gear, proper planning, and strong navigation skills. Always check the avalanche forecast and be sure to travel with a partner.
Winter Camping at Mt. Rainier
If you're well-prepared and want a peaceful snow-covered experience, winter camping is available in select areas of the park. The most common site is Paradise, which allows snow camping with a wilderness permit.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A four-season tent and insulated sleeping gear.
- Food storage to protect against animals.
- A printed permit from the Longmire Wilderness Information Center.
This activity is best for experienced campers. Cold temperatures, deep snow, and changing weather make it essential to plan carefully and stay safe.
Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and Holiday Event
The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad typically runs during warmer seasons, but this winter, it returns with a special event called “Christmas with The Clauses.”
This 75-minute holiday train ride departs from Elbe and includes:
- A live theatrical experience where guests meet Santa and the Kringle family.
- Toy-making shows at a snowy logging camp.
- Hot cocoa and cookies served by Mrs. Claus on the return trip.
- Festive decorations, holiday music, and fun for families of all ages.
Trains run on select dates from mid-November through December, with multiple departures each day. Seating options include coach and first class. It’s a unique way to experience the area’s history and holiday spirit simultaneously.
Where to Warm Up: Copper Creek Inn
After a full day in the snow, you’ll want a warm and peaceful place to relax. Copper Creek Inn offers comfortable cabins and vacation rentals just minutes from Mt. Rainier National Park’s Nisqually entrance.
Why stay here during winter?
- Private cabins with fireplaces and hot tubs.
- Full kitchens for simple meals after snowy outings.
- Close to Longmire and Paradise—easy access to top trails and snowshoe areas.
- Surrounded by nature for a quiet, relaxing setting.
Some cabins also feature views of Copper Creek and access to the on-site restaurant (please check seasonal hours in advance). It’s a restful home base after a day of hiking, snowshoeing, or sledding in the park.
Plan Your Mt. Rainier Winter Trip
Mt. Rainier in winter is peaceful, snow-covered, and filled with outdoor fun. Whether you enjoy snowshoeing along a quiet trail, sledding at Paradise, or sipping cocoa with Santa on a train ride, winter brings a slower, more magical way to explore the mountain.
Book your stay at Copper Creek Inn today and enjoy all the best Mt. Rainier winter activities from your cabin doorstep.