Paradise Glacier

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.

• Cowlitz Gap & Rocks
• Golden Gate
• High Lakes Loop
• Mazama Ridge
• Paradise

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

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing
• Seasons: January, February, March, April, May, June
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: M2G Advanced Glacier Ski
• Length: 7.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft
• High Point: 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