The 2025 season is upon us here at Mount Rainier. Climbing rangers are starting early-season training before the true summer climbing season begins. By mid-May our staff should be up on the mountain regularly and providing updates to route conditions. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds. Check the links in the archive to the left for former condition updates to give you an idea of how the routes typically look during the different months of the year.
Spring storm fronts have been cycling through Mount Rainier bringing periods of intense snowfall followed by short periods of sunshine and calm. This typical early-season weather pattern has brought over 48 inches of snow to Paradise in just a couple of days and then raised temperatures to nearly 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This highly variable and unpredictable weather is typical for this time of year on Mount Rainier. Any backcountry traveler should use an extra amount of caution due to both the intensity and potential longevity of storms this time of year.
While climbers can attempt to summit year-round, the typical "summer" climbing season has not started on Mount Rainier. Access to the mountain's trailheads can vary this time of year depending on the weather. Check the park's Road Status webpage for details on getting to your preferred trailhead. Be sure to follow all driving and parking regulations as heavy machinery works on the roads this time of year to clear the snow.
Climbing reservations, although not required for climbing permits, can be requested for the 2025 season ahead of time and are recommended for larger groups who're traveling long distances and have a limited date range to attempt their climb. Climbing permits can be obtained the same day or up to 24 hours in advance of the start of a climb if there's space still available. Check out the park's Climbing Information website at the park for more details on how to obtain a climbing permit and pay the annual climbing fee.
Many folks are snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding this time of year on the lower slopes of the mountain and on smaller peaks within the park. Please make sure to have a contingency plan within your group to self-rescue if things don't go to plan. Items such as a rescue tarp and a lightweight sleeping bag can make the difference if someone hurts their leg. Extra food and water or hot tea can be essential when an unexpected delay occurs. Don't just rely on a communication device to request a rescue - any form of rescue or first-aid can take multiple days to arrive in these early-season conditions - be self-sufficient within your party.
Check the local avalanche forecast for our zone if considering any adventure in avalanche terrain. Also, consider that creek holes and tree wells are just as hazardous as avalanches - "don't ski what you can't see." Lastly, as the snowpack transitions from a winter to spring conditions, the intense sun frequently bakes a crust onto unconsolidated powdery snow creating almost impossible ski conditions. Skiing this breakable crust frequently leads to unexpected falls and injuries.
When the weather, avalanche and surface conditions all align it can be a wonderful time of year to be in the backcountry high up on the mountain. See you on the slopes!
