Paradise Trails Orientation: Deadhorse Creek & Skyline Connector Trail Junction

The Deadhorse Creek Trail climbs the slopes of Mount Rainier, with the summit to the northwest.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Paradise Area Trails

Amenities

1 listed

Information

Season: Summer
Paradise is open year-round, but this orientation guide is designed for the summer season when trails are snow-free. In spring and fall, there may be patches of snow covering sections of trail. Please stay on trails, even if it means crossing snow, to avoid trampling delicate meadow plants. Pets are not allowed on trails.

This location is the junction of Deadhorse Creek Trail and a connector trail to the Skyline Trail. The Deadhorse Creek Trail goes uphill to the north, with Mount Rainier’s summit to the northwest.

• Deadhorse Creek Trail goes to the north uphill and to the south downhill.
• The connector trail goes downhill to the southeast to connect to the Skyline Trail.  

How Far Is It?

• Lower Parking Lot: 0.80 miles, average walking time 31 minutes, south on Deadhorse Creek Trail (downhill). The trail connects to the Nisqually Vista Trailhead shortly before connecting to the lower parking lot. There are no restrooms in the lower parking lot, but restrooms are available in the Paradise Picnic Area, downhill from the parking lot.
• Connecting to Skyline Trail: 0.09 miles, average walking time 4 minutes, southeast on the connector trail (downhill). Or, continue to follow the Deadhorse Creek Trail uphill to connect to the Skyline Trail when the Deadhorse Trail terminates, 0.41 miles, average walking time 16 minutes.
• Jackson Visitor Center and Upper Parking Lot: 0.56 miles, average walking time 22 minutes, by following the connector trail downhill to the Skyline Trail to descend to the upper parking lot. Restrooms, information, food, and gifts available at the visitor center.

For additional information, download the Paradise Area Trails Map.