Mount Rainier · March
Mount Rainier in March
March is one of the best times to visit Mount Rainier — about as busy as February, about as busy as April.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 6% 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
Typical March visits vs. the year
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
March weather
- Avg high
- 36°F
- Avg low
- 24°F
- Precipitation
- 13.2"
- Sunrise
- 6:18 AM
- Sunset
- 6:13 PM
- Daylight
- 11.9h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, RAINIER PARADISE RS, WA US
What's open
Mount Rainier in March: access
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:
- Park Closure
SR 165 Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge is closed: no access to Carbon River or Mowich Lake.
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 → - Information
Ohanapecosh Campground area closed for construction in 2026.
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
Current alerts
- Park Closure
SR 165 Carbon River/Fairfax Bridge is closed: no access to Carbon River or Mowich Lake.
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 → - Information
Ohanapecosh Campground area closed for construction in 2026.
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 → - Information
Expect long lines at entrances on weekends.
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 → - Information
Your GPS May Be Wrong
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 → - Caution
Parkwide Fire Ban in effect until further notice beginning June 26
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 → - Caution
Be cautious around park rivers & learn how to cross safely!
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
Mount Rainier crowds across the year
FAQ
Mount Rainier in March
How busy is Mount Rainier in March?
March rates 1/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Mount Rainier National Park — about 6% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 24,096.
What is the weather like at Mount Rainier in March?
In March, Mount Rainier averages a high of 36°F and a low of 24°F, with about 13.2 inches of precipitation.