Mount Rainier · May · Washington
Mount Rainier National Park in May
May is a fair month for Mount Rainier National Park, with some limitations. Crowds are moderate. Highs average 15°F and lows 0°F, with about 4.45 inches of rain.
May is rated fair at Mount Rainier. Consider Jul–Sep instead.
What to expect
Honest take: May is not the month for Mount Rainier. Snow still covers Paradise and Sunrise. Lower forests around Longmire and Carbon River are quiet and green, and roads open gradually through late spring.
Clouds hide the mountain on many days. Check the Paradise webcam before you drive up, and go on a weekday in August for the best mix of flowers and space.
Good to know
- Best months overall: Jul–Sep.
- Closest airport: Seattle–Tacoma (SEA), about 2 hours.
- Before you go: The park has used timed-entry reservations for the Paradise and Sunrise corridors in recent summers. Check the current season's rules before you go. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is May a good time to visit Mount Rainier National Park?
May is a fair month for Mount Rainier National Park, with some limitations. Crowds are moderate. Highs average 15°F and lows 0°F, with about 4.45 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Mount Rainier National Park in May?
Highs average 15°F and lows 0°F, with about 4.45 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Mount Rainier National Park in May?
Crowds are moderate in May.