Paradise is famous for its glorious views and wildflower meadows. When James Longmire's daughter-in-law, Martha, first saw this site, she exclaimed, "Oh, what a paradise!" The park's main visitor center, the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, is located in the upper parking area. Paradise is also the primary winter-use area in the park, receiving on average 640 inches (53.6 feet/16.2 meters) of snow a year. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. The road between Longmire and Paradise is plowed, but closes at night during the winter. See the current Road Status for updated information about park roads. Paradise is located 19 miles (30 km) east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles (19 km) east of Longmire. You might also consider visiting other parts of the park such as Longmire, Sunrise, Ohanapecosh, and the Carbon River-Mowich Lake areas. Paradise Visitor GuideFind out current conditions and things to do while visiting Paradise. ServicesSee Operating Hours and Seasons for current information about these facilities. The Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise offers general information, exhibits, the park film, guided ranger programs, a book/gift store, and cafeteria. The visitor center is usually open daily from May to early October. From mid-October through April, it is usually open only on weekends and holidays. The historic Paradise Inn, a concessioner-operated hotel, offers lodging, a dining room, and a gift shop. The Paradise Inn is usually open from mid-May to early-October and is closed in the winter. The article, Paradise Inn: A History of Beauty and Challenge, provides an overview of the history of the Paradise Inn. The Guide House houses the Paradise Wilderness Information Center, where visitors can obtain climbing permits and hiking and backcountry camping information. The historic Paradise Ranger Station is also located at Paradise. Information services formerly available at the Paradise Ranger Station are now available at the Guide House.
Roadside AttractionsParadise Valley Road - Start next to the Paradise Inn to follow this one-way road through a beautiful meadow filled valley. Reflection Lakes - Drive 3 miles (4.8 km) east of Paradise on Stevens Canyon Road for a possible glimpse of Mount Rainier's reflection in these subalpine lakes. Inspiration Point - Just east of Paradise Valley Road on Stevens Canyon Road, this large pullout offers spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range. HikingIf you plan to visit Paradise, remember that Paradise is located at an elevation of 5,400 feet and trails may be steep and strenuous. Snow can linger on trails well into June or even July. Please stay on the trails; the meadows are very fragile and heavily visited. Pets are not allowed on any trails. Paradise Meadows Trails
Skyline Trail (5.5 mi/8.8 km) Bench & Snow Lakes Trail (2.4 mi/3.7 km) Pinnacle Peak (2.6 mi/4.2 km) Enjoy other day hikes in the Paradise area, or learn about more Trails of Mount Rainier.
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Last updated: September 3, 2024