Paradise Glacier

Paradise Area is a moderate, 7 mile backcountry ski route with 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The Paradise Glacier is best suited for spring skiing and will have longer elevation gain and mileage.

Temporary Midweek Closure - Weekend Access Only

11/29/2022 Update: For the winter of 2022-23, public access to Paradise is limited to Saturdays and Sundays, weather/staff/equipment dependent. Due to staffing shortages the park does not have the capacity to maintain public access 7 day/week. See the full announcement on Mount Rainier National Park’s website.

getting there

From SR-7 in Elbe, turn east onto SR-706, both known as the National Park Highway. Continue through the Nisqually Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Be prepared to pay the fee just after entering the park. Drive 19 miles to Paradise.

Winter drivers in the park are required to have snow chains, and may be required to install them at Longmire.

Information for LEADERS

This area is used by our branches to host snow field trips and is a generally popular winter exploration area. Please check other routes/places to ensure we don't have multiple Mountaineers groups going to the same area.

Check with Mount Rainier National Park (land manger link below) to be sure you have the required camping and climbing permits.

  • Difficulty: M2G Advanced Glacier Ski
  • Length: 7.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft
  • 7,400 ft
  • Land Manager: Mount Rainier National Park
  • Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • USGS Mt Rainier East
  • Green Trails Mt Rainier East No. 270
  • Green Trails Mount Rainier Wonderland No. 269SX
Activities

Upcoming Activities

Seattle MAC - Backcountry Ski Trip - Paradise Glacier

Youth Youth activity: Mountaineers Adventure Club
Advanced backcountry skiing in the wilderness that involves using climbing skins to go uphill and
Difficulty: M2G Advanced Glacier Ski
Sat, May 13, 2023
Prerequisites
6 participants 2 instructors
Registration opens Apr 1; Instructor registration open now
Seattle Branch
Trip Reports
Resources

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