Barring an unpredicted snowstorm, beginning today Mount Rainier National Park will open the road from Longmire to Paradise 24 hours a day.
Of course, being the Pacific Northwest, some overnight closures may still occur during inclement weather. All vehicles entering the park are required to carry tire chains through May 1. Road and weather conditions can deteriorate quickly during spring storms, and traction tires may be advised or chains may be required at any time.
The Paradise snow play area and guided snowshoe walks have ended for the season.
Road rehabilitation work is underway between the Nisqually Entrance and Longmire. Visitors can expect to encounter large equipment, truck hauling, and rough road conditions, with delays up to 30 minutes. Drive with caution.
For now the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center is open weekends only, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Paradise Camp Deli, located within the visitor center, is open from 11 a.m. to 4:45 p.m daily.
The historic Paradise Inn is scheduled to open for the 2014 season on Wednesday, May 21. Reservations for Paradise Inn and the National Park Inn at Longmire can be made by phone – 360-569-2275, or online.
The National Park Inn at Longmire is open daily, and spring is a great time to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the mountain during an overnight stay. The National Park Inn will be offering an Easter Brunch to the public on Sunday, April 20. For reservations, call 360-569-2411.