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Mount Rainier · April
April is one of the best times to visit Mount Rainier — about as busy as March, quieter than May.
Expect light crowds (1/10), highs near 40°F, about 13.6 hours of daylight, and 2 seasonal closures in effect.
Crowd score
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 8% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Jul 2026 · alerts checked Jul 10, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
April draws about 2% of Mount Rainier’s yearly visitors.
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, RAINIER PARADISE RS, WA US
What's open
Mount Rainier National Park is open all year. Visitation peaks in July and August with warmer weather and blooming wildflowers. In spring and autumn, weather determines the availability of facilities and roads. During winter months a number of roads, facilities, and entrances close for the season.
Seasonal closures may apply:
There is NO public access to Carbon River & Mowich Lake from SR 165. The bridge is closed to pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles and there is no alternate route.
Details on nps.gov →The entire Ohanapecosh Campground area is CLOSED for the duration of the construction project, including all campsites, visitor center, restrooms, picnic area, & Ohanapecosh river access.
Details on nps.gov →Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
There is NO public access to Carbon River & Mowich Lake from SR 165. The bridge is closed to pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles and there is no alternate route.
Details on nps.gov →The entire Ohanapecosh Campground area is CLOSED for the duration of the construction project, including all campsites, visitor center, restrooms, picnic area, & Ohanapecosh river access.
Details on nps.gov →Lengthy delays are likely at the southwest park entrance on SR706 on weekends. Check Google Maps for backup (represented by the orange/red line) at link below. Please do not block driveways or roads while in line outside the park.
Details on nps.gov →There are five entrances to the park. GPS may take you to the wrong entrance or attempt to follow the most direct route, which could lead to closed gates. It can take hours to reroute to the correct entrance. Check directions & maps, not just your GPS.
Details on nps.gov →Beginning Friday 6/26/26 until rescinded, a parkwide fire ban is implemented for all campfires & the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, & BBQ grills.
Details on nps.gov →Many hikers underestimate the power of moving water. Regardless of your knowledge, skills, and experience use these pointers in making wise decisions before attempting to cross a river.
Details on nps.gov →Source: NPS Data API
Context
FAQ
April rates 1/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Mount Rainier National Park — about 8% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 32,202.
In April, Mount Rainier averages a high of 40°F and a low of 26°F, with about 8.3 inches of precipitation.
Entrance to Mount Rainier costs $30 (Grants unlimited entry for one vehicle and passengers for seven consecutive days. Vehicle must be private, noncommercial, and with a seating capacity of 15 or less.).
Mount Rainier is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
In mid-April, Mount Rainier gets about 13.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 5:18 AM and sunset around 6:55 PM.