Mount Rainier has partially reopened for visitors, despite the ongoing effects of the federal government shutdown.
The park’s Nisqually entrance was reopened Sunday, after being closed since Jan. 6 due to the shutdown. Initially, the park said its low staffing levels rendered it unable to deal with a coming snowstorm, making it necessary to close the park.
Recently, though, the National Park Service was granted the authority to use retained recreation fees to provide services, allowing some park employees to come back to work. Rainier rangers will be plowing roads, removing trash and offering visitor information.
The park will reopen from the Nisqually entrance to Longmire, where restrooms will also be operational again. The National Park Inn, restaurant and gift shop at Longmire will also resume operations.
The road to Paradise will remain closed to vehicle and foot traffic. All areas of the park outside of Paradise are still off-limits for sledding.
Visitor centers and administrative offices will remain closed during the shutdown. Park visitors are encouraged to use caution, as assistance and emergency response may be limited. Guard stations will be manned, but fees will not be collected.
