winter or summer the best views of Mt Rainier are here
Mt. Rainier Gondola
EXPERIENCE THE BREATHTAKING BEAUTY OF MT. RAINIER
A Mt. Rainier Gondola ride will take you over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit, where you will find expansive views of Mt. Rainier and the beautiful Cascade Range. Just a few short steps away from the Summit House, Washington’s highest-elevation restaurant, with Tower 16 just below, you'll have plenty of dining choices to suit your appetite. Dress warm, wear shoes with good traction, and we'll see you at the top!
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A Mt. Rainier Gondola ride will take you over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit, where you will find expansive views of Mt. Rainier and the beautiful Cascade Range. Just a few short steps away from the Summit House, Washington’s highest-elevation restaurant, with Tower 16 just below, you'll have plenty of dining choices to suit your appetite. Dress warm, wear shoes with good traction, and we'll see you at the top!
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Summer Scenic Gondola Tickets Are Now Available!
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Scenic Gondola Tickets are now available!
Guest Services will be open during the hours the Mt.Rainier Scenic Gondola operates.
Scenic Gondola Hours of Operation
Early Summer Operations: May 22–June 21 (Friday–Sunday only + Memorial Day Monday)- Friday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (last download 5:30 p.m.)
Peak Summer Operations: June 26-August 30(Daily)- Monday–Thursday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (last download 5:30 p.m.)
- Friday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (last download 6:30 p.m.)
- Saturday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (last download 8:30 p.m.)
- Sunday: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (last download 6:30 p.m.)
Late Summer Operations: Sept. 4–20 (Friday–Sunday only + Labor Day Monday)- Friday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (last download 5:30 p.m.)
Summit House Information- The Summit House Restaurant is open for lunch on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available.
- The Summit House closes early (last seating at 1:30 p.m.) on the following dates for private events:
- July 12
- July 26
- August 9
- September 4
- September 18
Flying Raven Course Information
The Flying Raven Adventure Course will typically be open Friday-Sunday during Early and Late Summer hours, and Thursday-Sunday during Peak Summer hours.
Daily hours and advanced purchase tickets will be available on April 30th. If you wish to bundle your Scenic Gondola ticket with a Flying Raven Course ticket, check back then.
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Is the Mt. Rainier Gondola subject to close?
The Mount Rainier Scenic Gondola is subject to weather-related closures. We recommend checking the Mountain Report before your visit, as it shows operational changes.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable, and good for two (same-day) round-trip Gondola rides.
Are Scenic Gondola tickets round-trip?
Yes. Tickets include two round-trip Gondola rides per day. This gives you the flexibility to head down for food or shopping, then return to the summit when you're ready. Please note: The second scan must match the first. Your photo will be used for verification.
Trip Protection Insurance
Optional coverage is available through Spot Insurance for qualifying disruptions, including illness, travel delays, or family emergencies. Please review all terms before purchase. Note: Purchases under $100 may not be eligible for coverage.
Do Children Need a Ticket to Ride the Gondola?
Children ages 4 and under can ride the gondola for free with a paying adult. You can redeem your child's ticket at the ticket windows upon arrival.All other guests need a valid ticket to ride.
Mountain Weather Policy
Mountain weather can shift rapidly, and the safety of our guests remains our top priority. In the event of lightning in the area, Gondola operations will be paused until conditions improve. Storms and low visibility are often short-lived, and our team will work to safely resume access as soon as possible.
Please Note:
- Tickets are valid only for the specific date selected at purchase and cannot be refunded or exchanged due to weather. This includes rain, wind, or cloudy conditions that may affect visibility.
- If the Gondola or resort is closed for operational or safety reasons, we will work with you to reschedule your visit for another day within the same season (winter or summer).
Plan Ahead:
We recommend checking the forecast before your visit. Same-day tickets are also available at on-site ticket windows. However, prices may be higher than those purchased in advance.
How long does it take to get to the top?
The Scenic Gondola ride is about 12 minutes.
Can I bring my dog on the Scenic Gondola?
Dogs are only allowed during the summer season. Dogs are not allowed on the Scenic Gondola during ski season.
Do I have to schedule my descent from the summit?
No. You can choose to ride down at any time prior to the last download.
How many people can fit in one Gondola cabin?
Each Gondola cabin seats up to eight people.
Can strollers go up the Gondola?
Unfortunately, no, due to the steep terrain at the summit, it is a safety issue, and strollers are not allowed.
Do I need to buy a ticket to ride the Gondola down if I hiked up?
Yes. You must purchase a ticket if you hiked up and want to ride the Gondola down. Download Tickets cost $19, and are available at Tower 16 or Guest Services.
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