Mount Rainier’s Sunrise Road and Visitor Center now Open
Great news for adventurers and nature lovers: Sunrise Road and the Sunrise Visitor Center are officially open for the summer season, welcoming hikers, photographers, and day-trippers back to one of Mount Rainier National Park’s most stunning high-altitude destinations. The road was opened on July 4, 2025.
The 14-mile road that winds its way up to Sunrise, the park’s highest point accessible by vehicle at 6,400 feet, is the last to open at Mount Rainier. The seasonal road typically opens in late June or early July, depending on snowfall, and this year’s timeline closely follows the historical average.
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Sunrise is a favorite for its sweeping mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and access to iconic trails such as the Sunrise Rim Trail, Fremont Lookout, Burroughs Mountain, and Dege Peak. On clear days, visitors are treated to unobstructed views of Mount Rainier’s glaciated peak, as well as Glacier Peak, Mount Baker, Mount Adams, and the distant Olympic range to the west.
Getting to the park
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill quickly. While the road is open, some higher elevation paths may still have lingering snowfields. Hikers should check current conditions and come prepared with appropriate footwear, layers, and water.
It will be crowded
Mount Rainier National Park has experienced record visitation in recent years, and the National Park Service urges guests to recreate responsibly. This includes packing out trash, staying on designated trails, and giving wildlife plenty of space.
When does the Sunrise Road close?
Sunrise will remain open until early fall, typically closing in late September or early October when snow begins to return. Until then, it’s an ideal spot for soaking in panoramic views, chasing wildflowers, and experiencing the raw alpine beauty that makes Mount Rainier a crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest.
When did the Sunrise Road open in Mount Rainier?
The road to the Sunrise Visitor Center opened on July 4th, just in time for the holiday weekend. Expect intense crowds during the middle of the day.
Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.
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