Mount Rainier National Park Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

Mount Rainier National Park Transportation

Visiting Mount Rainier is an experience many people never forget. Being it’s remote, know your transportation options before you get there.

Tour Options

Public transportation services are quite far from the park but there are several tour options you can take – bus, taxi, van service or commercial tours, so getting to the park shouldn’t be a problem. Most of these tours leave from Seattle and will get you back the same day. The downside to this is you don’t see much of the mountain or the surrounding areas if that’s what you’re hoping to do. You can take a specialized tour for additional fees that will give you more time to explore.

Driving In By Car

Mount Rainier National Park is located close to the center of the state of Washington though a bit closer to the western side. While there are several commercial tours available to see Mount Rainier National Park, you might prefer your own car. This way, you aren’t confined with respect to time. It is important to note these roads inside the park are high country roads. Many of them require that you at least carry tire chains with you, and there is a possibility of snow at any time, even in June or September. Ask about road conditions upon your arrival.

Rainier Shuttle Inside the Park

In the past there has been a seasonal shuttle bus service operating between Ashford and Paradise, but only on weekends. This is due to the severe overcrowding of the parking lots and heavy traffic on the roads. See if this is an option during the time you’re visiting. Keep in mind it does involve a taxi or other means to get to Ashford.

Airports

The nearest major airport is about 100 miles away in Seattle; it’s about 150 miles from Portland, Oregon.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Mount Rainier National Park.