Mount Rainier · May
Mount Rainier in May
May is one of the best times to visit Mount Rainier — busier than April, quieter than June.
Expect light crowds (3/10), highs near 48°F, about 15.1 hours of daylight, and 3 seasonal closures in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 22% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 18, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical May visits vs. the year
May draws about 6% 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
May weather
- Avg high
- 48°F
- Avg low
- 33°F
- Precipitation
- 5.1"
- Sunrise
- 4:31 AM
- Sunset
- 7:35 PM
- Daylight
- 15.1h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, RAINIER PARADISE RS, WA US
What's open
Mount Rainier in May: 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 → - Danger
WILDFIRE CLOSURES: Sunrise & northern trails. White River open.
Due to several active fires on the north side of the park, the following closures are in effect until further notice: Grand Park area & trails, Northern Loop Trail, Wonderland Trail from Carbon River Suspension Bridge to Frozen Lake, & associated backcountry campgrounds. White River Road & WR Campground reopened along with White River/Sunrise Trails. Sunrise Rd CLOSED to vehicles; open for pedestrians/bicycling only.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- 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
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 → - Information
Fryingpan Creek Bridge Replacement Project: Traffic and Trail Impacts
Parking is closed at the Summerland Trailhead on either side of Fryingpan Creek Bridge due to construction through 2029. Access to Summerland remains open via the Wonderland Trail with limited parking at White River Campground. Expect traffic delays of up to 30 minutes due to one-lane traffic on White River Road while it remains open for the season.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Mount Rainier crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in May
FAQ
Mount Rainier in May
How busy is Mount Rainier in May?
May rates 3/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Mount Rainier National Park — about 22% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 93,390.
What is the weather like at Mount Rainier in May?
In May, Mount Rainier averages a high of 48°F and a low of 33°F, with about 5.1 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Mount Rainier?
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.).
When is Mount Rainier least crowded?
Mount Rainier is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
How many hours of daylight does Mount Rainier get in May?
In mid-May, Mount Rainier gets about 15.1 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 4:31 AM and sunset around 7:35 PM.