South Sound News

Government shutdown limits access to Mount Rainier

Though Mount Rainier National Park will remain partially open during the government shutdown, you may be disappointed once you get there.

Currently, visitors can access the park from the Nisqually entrance to Longmire, and the Inn at Longmire will remain open, dependent on weather conditions.

But the crown of the park, Paradise, and the scenic road leading to it, is closed to visitors, because of limited resources available to clear snow.

Park visitor centers, contact stations, and permit desks will be closed. Visitor parking may be reduced, again because of limited snow removal.

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Visitors may use park trails, but at their own risk. The park says those who do decide to visit should be aware that because of the government shutdown, park staff won’t be able to provide the usual response level in the case of an emergency. And cellphone coverage is spotty within the park.

The overriding message the park is trying to get across is that entry during the federal shutdown is at visitors’ sole risk.

If you do still decide to go, make sure you pack some tire chains.  All vehicles, including four-wheel drive, are required to carry them when traveling in the park during the winter season from Nov. 1 to May. 1.

For more information about the closures at the park during the partial government shutdown, visit this link.