The Gateway Inn just outside Mount Rainier National Park is closed due to safety violations.
According to reports and social media photos, the inn was closed by Pierce County Aug. 5. A large sign on the door said the county immediately vacated the structure because the building was “found to be in imminent danger” due to fire and building code violations, according to a sign posted to the boarded up entrance.
However, the business’ website makes no mention of the fact the inn is closed, and it appears rooms are still listed as “available” when searching the site. It also appears Booking.com and other third-party booking websites have no notification of the closure.
Another handwritten sign suggests other hotel options in the area. It’s unclear whether the county, the inn, or a well-meaning citizen put it up.
According to Pierce County spokesperson Christina Rohila, the inn was officially closed last February after inspectors found serious hazards including “dangerous electrical conditions, non-working smoke detectors, unsafe exits, chimney problems that created smoke and carbon-monoxide risks, and unpermitted construction,” she wrote in an email.
But county staff confirmed the inn did not comply with the closure order. Instead, it allegedly removed signage placed by the county and continued to rent rooms during the summer, prompting the county to issue another order, disconnect utilities, and board up buildings.
“The Gateway Inn cannot reopen until all life‑safety violations are corrected, required permits are issued, all inspections are completed, and Pierce County authorizes the property for occupancy,” Rohila added.
The Courier-Herald attempted to contact Gateway Inn via phone and email, but did not receive an immediate reply.
Rohila confirmed the owner is currently working with Pierce County to address the violations.
“If the violations are not resolved through this process, pursuing civil penalties is an option,” she said.
