Mount Rainier National Park Photo Gallery

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How to reserve a hut: Huts are available from December to April on a first-come, first-served basis (they book up quickly). There is no charge to stay in the huts, but guests must make a refundable deposit of around $25 per person per night. Approximately $10 will be deducted from the nightly deposit as a non-refundable reservation fee. Cancellations must be made in writing and postmarked 30 days before the initial reserved night.

Each season's first reservations are taken by lottery at MTTA's annual Gala in November. After the Gala, reservations must be made by mail or in person on weekends at MTTA's Ashford office. Queries about hut availability can be made by e-mail or calling the MTTA office on weekends at (360) 569-2451. Find more information at the organization's Web site.

Weather information: For daily updates, contact Mount Rainier National Park at (360) 569-2211.

Trail condition report: Conditions are usually updated weekly on MTTA's website.

Equipment rental: Rent cross-country skis in Tacoma or Seattle. They aren't available in Ashford or nearby Elbe. Snowshoes are available for a nominal fee at the Summit Haus in Ashford. Call (360) 569-2142 or (360) 569-2992.

Snow Park passes: Required Snow Park passes are sold at the Elbe Chevron station and the Ashford Valley Grocery. Skiers without a pass receive around a hefty fine.