Preparation for the upcoming winter season at Mount Rainier is under way.

As of Monday, the road to Sunrise was closed at the White River Campground gate. The road between White River Campground and state Route 410 will be kept open through Oct. 30, weather permitting. Hikers and bicyclists still have access to the Sunrise Road.

All public facilities at Sunrise will also be closed as park maintenance personnel must begin the annual job of shutting down water, electrical and heat systems; boarding up facilities to protect them from the winter snows; and placing snow poles to identify road alignments during next spring’s road opening.  This same process will continue into the fall at White River and Ohanapecosh.

The Sunrise Visitor Center’s hours were reduced following Labor Day and the center was closed for the season Sept. 11.

At Paradise, the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center, Paradise Camp Deli and Gift Shop are open on weekends and holidays only. The historic Paradise Inn closed for the season on Oct. 3.

The National Park Inn and General Store and the Longmire Museum are open daily throughout the year.

For online information on visitor services and accommodations in the gateway communities surrounding the park go to the following websites: www.visitrainier.com, www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com, www.destinationpackwood.com, www.minerallake.com.

Park visitors are reminded that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains during this time of the year. Effective Nov. 1, all vehicles (including four-wheel and all-wheel drive rigs) are required to carry tire chains that fit the vehicle while in the park.

For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/mora or call 360-569-2211.