Mount Rainier Guide

Mount Rainier National Park Tahoma News | Summer-Fall Visitor Guide 2023 Spray Park, JD Hascup photo Welcome to Mount Rainier National Park! Travel Alerts Grove of the Patriarchs Closure Grove of the Patriarchs is CLOSED at the junction with Eastside Trail. The closure is due to flood damage to the suspension bridge. Eastside trail remains open. Stevens Canyon Road Closures and Delays Expect a rough roadbed, delays, and closures on Stevens Canyon Road this summer and fall. Information on the current status is available at entrance stations and visitor centers. Hazard Trees and Campgrounds Hazard tree mitigation operations are ongoing, requiring closure of campground sites and loops throughout the park. Treatment of hazard trees is for the safety of all who enter these areas. At 14,410 feet high, Mount Rainier is the tallest peak in the Cascade Range and an icon of the Pacific Northwest. While the mountain's well-known profile is visible for many miles in every direction, its alpine, glacier-clad slopes occupy only a third of Mount Rainier National Park. There are as many different experiences here as there are views of Mount Rainier. Take time to explore the other two-thirds of the park and discover what lies within the shadow of this great mountain that local Native Americans call "Tahoma." Summer wildflowers, fall colors, spectacular scenery, and recreational opportunities draw people to Mount Rainier from around the world. This often creates crowded trails, and traffic and parking congestion. For a more enjoyable visit, follow these tips to help avoid the crowds: • • • Please Drive Safely! Park roads are winding, road shoulders are narrow, and the speed limit is 35 mph in most areas. Watch for pedestrians, sightseers, bicyclists, and wildlife. Please be courteous and use pullouts to allow faster drivers to pass safely. • Visit on weekdays, and arrive in the early morning or late afternoon, to help avoid long entrance station lines and difficulty finding a place to park. Have an alternate plan and destination in mind if long lines are encountered when entering the park. Experience the sights and activities of gateway communities during peak hours and weekends. U.S. Forest Service lands outside the park offer trails and other opportunities for recreation. Help reduce traffic congestion, consider carpooling. Finally, explore less–visited areas to escape the crowds. By taking the extra time to seek out these special places, you can immerse yourself in an old-growth forest, reflect next to a waterfall, hike in virtual solitude, or take in the view and reconnect with nature. No matter where you go in the park you will find spectacular scenery and a multitude of recreational opportunities! Leashed pets are permitted only in parking lots, campgrounds, and along roads open to public vehicles. No Drone Zone! Drones are not allowed anywhere in Mount Rainier National Park. It is illegal to launch, land, and operate drones in the park. Mount Rainier frequently uses aircraft for project work and search and rescue (SAR). Drones pose a serious threat to the safety of flight and SAR personnel and can shut down air operations. You can help safeguard this place, and these resources and intrinsic values by taking the Mount Rainier Pledge located on the back page. Keep in Touch! What's Inside? Visiting Mount Rainier ............ 2-3 Campgrounds ........................... 3 Carbon River and Mowich ....... 4 Exploring Longmire ................. 5 No Pets on Trails Exploring Paradise .................... 6-7 Ohanapecosh ............................ 8 Sunrise and White River ........... 9 Safety and Hiking ..................... 10-11 Mount Rainier National Park www.nps.gov/mora @MountRainierNPS Carbon River near Chenuis Falls JD Hascup photo Get the Most Out of Your Visit Visiting for a few hours or a day? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your visit. You can help protect meadows and forest vegetation by staying on trails. Half Day in the Park? • • • • • • • Drive to Sunrise for a picnic, a short hike to Emmons Vista, and outstanding mountain and glacier views. Download the National Park Service App (NPS APP) and listen to the Sunrise Road Geology Audio tour along the way. Stop at the parking area inside the White River Entrance for data service to download. Visit Chinook Pass and Tipsoo Lake for a hike around the lake through subalpine meadows. Hike two miles round-trip along the Ohanapecosh River from the Ohanapecosh Campground to view Silver Falls. Explore Longmire's historic district and hike the Trail of the Shadows. Hike Nisqually Vista or Myrtle Falls trails at Paradise and enjoy a picnic with a view! Take a drive through the park stopping at overlooks of mountains, waterfalls, and geologic features. Some great hikes for young families are the Trail of the Shadows at Longmire, Nisqually Vista at Paradise, Box Canyon loop trail in Stevens Canyon (check for road construction status on Stevens Canyon Road), Hot Springs Trail at Ohanapecosh, and Sunrise Rim at Sunrise. One Day in the Park? • • • • • • • Hike into the Tatoosh Range for excellent views of the mountain. Hardy hikers can try the Eagle Peak or Pinnacle Peak trails. Visit Reflection Lakes for amazing views of the mountain that may be reflecting in the lake's surface. Then hike up to Bench and Snow lakes for a moderate hike. Take a geology tour along the south side of the park. Stops include (west to east) Westside Road, Kautz Creek, Glacier Bridge, Ricksecker Point, Inspiration Point, Box Canyon, and viewpoints along the way. (Check road construction status on Stevens Canyon Road.) Spend the day hiking the trails through subalpine meadows at Sunrise or Paradise. Hike a section of the 93-mile Wonderland Trail that encircles the mountain. Many people hike this trail in sections. Try hiking from Sunrise to White River, or Longmire to Narada Falls or on to Reflection Lakes. All require a vehicle at each trailhead. Take a drive up the dirt road to Mowich Lake to see the park's deepest lake surrounded by wildflowers in summer, followed by a hike to Spray Park for mountain views. Hike to a historic fire lookout for great views of the mountain and surrounding area. Food & Lodging Inside Mount Rainier National Park For in-park lodging reservations, contact Rainier Guest Services at (360) 569-2275 or visit their website, mtrainierguestservices.com. Services Outside Mount Rainier National Park Gas, lodging, dining, recreation equipment rentals, and other services are available in local communities. The land administered as Mount Rainier National Park has been since time immemorial the Ancestral homeland of the Cowlitz, Muckleshoot, Nisqually, Puyallup, Squaxin Island, Yakama, and Coast Salish people. By following Elders’ instructions passed through generations, these Indigenous Peoples remain dedicated caretakers of this landscape. Their Traditional Knowledge and Management of this Sacred Land will endure in perpetuity, and we honor each nation’s traditions of landscape stewardship in our endeavors to care for, protect, and preserve the features and values of the mountain. How Far Is It? Road One Way Driving Times & Distances Distance Time Longmire to Paradise 12 miles 25 min **Stevens Canyon Rd: Paradise to Ohanapecosh 23 miles 45 min Ohanapecosh to White River Entrance 18 miles 30 min White River Entrance to Sunrise 13 miles 45 min White River Entrance to Carbon River via Enumclaw 61 miles 2 hrs Longmire to Carbon River via Eatonville/Orting 80 miles 2.5 hrs Longmire to Mowich Lake via Eatonville/Orting 89 miles 3 hrs **Expect delays or closures on Stevens Canyon Road. Mount Rainier National Park Cellular service is not available in most of the park. Help preserve opportunities for solitude, especially at busy locations. Try turning off your cell phone, or speaking quietly so as not to disturb others. Superintendent Greg Dudgeon Gas is not available inside the park. Gas stations are located in local communities. 2 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2023 Electric vehicle charging is available at Longmire National Park Inn and Paradise. E-mail MORAInfo@nps.gov Park Headquarters (360) 569-2211 Lost and Found MORA_Lost@nps.gov What You Need to Know Mount Rainier National Park was established in 1899 to preserve the natural and cultural resources in this area and to provide for public benefit and enjoyment. This information will help you learn more about the park, and protect yourself and the park. Accessibility Most restrooms, visitor centers, picnic areas, amphitheaters, and designated campsites are accessible or accessible with help by wheelchair. Accessible lodging is available inside the park and in local communities. The park brochure is available in Braille at visitor centers and entrance stations. The Kautz Creek Boardwalk Nature Trail is accessible with assistance when snow-free. An accessible trail leads to the base of Paradise Meadows; a portion of the trails at Paradise are accessible with help. Pets and Service Animals During hot weather do not leave pets in vehicles. Pets are not allowed in buildings, on trails (except the Pacific Crest Trail), or in off-trail or backcountry areas. Leashed pets and emotional support animals are permitted only in picnic areas, campgrounds, and parking lots and on roads currently open to public vehicles. They must be on leashes no longer than six feet. Service animals are allowed on trails and in park facilities only if they are providing a service for a person with a disability. Service dogs-in-training are not service animals under ADA, but are considered pets. Mercury in Park Lakes Research studies have shown mercury is present in some trout in a few park lakes. Check the Washington Department of Health website http://www.doh.wa.gov/ for information on fish consumption. Tree Hazards Healthy trees with no defects can present a danger under certain conditions. Stay alert for falling limbs and cones on windy days, and avoid forested areas during storms when possible. Sudden gusts can do great damage to trees—as well as anything in range of falling debris. Firearms The use of firearms is prohibited within Mount Rainier National Park. People who can legally possess firearms under federal, Washington State, and local laws may possess them in the park. However federal law prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are posted with signs at public entrances. Protect the Meadows: Stay on trails. Leave all wildflowers for everyone to enjoy. Bikes in the Park Bicycle only on roads, not on trails. Mountain bikes are permitted on Westside Road and Carbon River Road, but not on trails. Don’t Be A Victim! Burglaries have occurred at numerous trailheads and parking areas in the park. Those responsible for the crimes were investigated, arrested by Mount Rainier rangers and National Park Service special agents, and convicted in court. However, these convictions will not necessarily end the problem of car burglaries in the park. Follow these simple guidelines to avoid becoming a victim of future break-ins: • Do not leave any valuables in your vehicle, even for a short time. • Do not leave bags, packs, or purses that look like they could contain valuables visible in your vehicle. • If storing items in the trunk of your car, do so before arriving at your destination. You could be watched at trailheads and parking lots. • Immediately report all suspicious activity you observe at or around parking lots or along roads to a park ranger. Camping Camp in designated campsites only. Sleeping in vehicles outside of campgrounds is not permitted. Campfires Campfires are only permitted in established grills in campgrounds and picnic areas. Campfires are not permitted in Mount Rainier's backcountry. Collecting firewood is prohibited. Firewood sales are available in the park at the Longmire General Store and at Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River campgrounds. Firewood: Buy It Where You Burn It Washington forests are in jeopardy from the transportation of invasive insects and diseases in firewood. New infestations of tree-killing insects and diseases are often first found in campgrounds and parks. Buy firewood near where you will burn it—that means the wood was cut within 50 miles of where you will have your fire. Never bring wood from home, even if you think the firewood looks fine. Aged or seasoned wood is still not safe. Permits Permits are required for all overnight stays in the wilderness, and for traveling on glaciers and above 10,000 feet in elevation. Wilderness Camping Permits A permit is required for all overnight camping in the park's wilderness. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Approximately two thirds of summer season backpacking and climbing permits are made available for advance reservation. Reservations must be made at least two days in advance of the trip start. The remaining one third of permits are issued onsite on a first-come, first-served basis. Advance reservations are available for peak season (JuneSeptember) on Recreation.gov. Climbing Each year, approximately 10,000 people attempt to climb Mount Rainier. Nearly half reach the 14,410-foot summit. Climbing permits are required for travel above 10,000 feet and/or on glaciers. Climbing information including fees, routes, and conditions, as well as wilderness permits required for overnight stays, are available on the park website. Please Note: Those wishing to climb above 10,000 feet or on glaciers must pay the annual climbing fee AND get a climbing permit. This includes skiers or "single push climbers". Climbers who wish to camp overnight must also get a wilderness permit in order to acquire a campsite. Pay your annual climbing fee through pay.gov; keep your receipt and print or save it on your phone to serve as proof of payment; and bring a picture ID. Guided climbs and seminars are available through: • Alpine Ascents International (206) 378-1927 • International Mountain Guides (360) 569-2609 • Rainier Mountaineering (888) 892‑5462 Wildlife Safety Give animals room. The best way to stay safe when watching wildlife is to give animals room to move. Stay a minimum distance of 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators like bears. Drive-in Campgrounds Open/Close dates subject to change. Campground Open Dates Elev. Sites Group Sites Toilets Dump Station Maximum RV/Trailer Length Cougar Rock* May 26 - Oct. 9 3,180’ 175 5 Flush CLOSED RV 35’/Trailer 27’ Ohanapecosh* May 26 - Oct. 9 1,914’ 138 2 Flush No RV 32’/Trailer 27’ White River June 23 - Sept. 25 4,232’ 88 0 Flush No RV 27’/Trailer 18’ Mowich Lake Primitive walk-in campground, tents only. 10 sites. No fee (must self-register at campground kiosk). Vault toilets, no potable water. No fires allowed. Elevation 4,929’; generally open July through early October, depending on road and weather conditions. Call 360-829-9639 for information. *Advance reservations are recommended for individual sites at Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh Campgrounds These can be made up to six months in advance. Reservations for group sites are recommended and are available throughout the season. These can be made up to one year in advance. To make a reservation online, go to www.recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777. Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2023 | 3 Northwest: Carbon River and Mowich Lake It's on the NPS App! Bicycling at Mount Rainier Learn about bicycling in the park in the Things To Do section of the NPS App. Don't have the app? Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Carbon River NPS photo Carbon River and Mowich Lake Services and Carbon River Ranger Station Information and Wilderness Permits Camping There is a walk-in campground at Mowich Lake. A backcountry camping permit is required for the Ipsut Creek Campground at Carbon River. Campground information is available on page 3. Located on the “quiet side” of the park, the Carbon River valley showcases ancient forests, deep valleys, waterfalls, and a dynamic, flood-prone river that flows from the Carbon Glacier, the lowestelevation glacier in the contiguous United States. Or follow State Route 165 to Mowich Lake, the park’s largest and deepest lake. Look for colorful subalpine wildflowers along its shores. From the picnic area at road’s end, trails lead to subalpine lakes and flower-strewn meadows. Amazing views of the park’s wilderness are your reward for hiking to Tolmie Peak fire lookout. Chenuis Falls (Moderate, 7.8 miles, 4.5 hours Picnic Picnic tables are located at the Carbon Mowich Lake Canoes glide across this River Ranger Station and Entrance, and along Mowich Lake Road at Paul Peak and Mowich Lake. round-trip) Enjoy this trail that leads across the Carbon River on a footlog to the gently cascading Chenuis Falls. From the parking lot, hike or bike 3.7 miles to the trailhead. Check trail conditions at the ranger station. The footlog is subject to wash out. Green Lake (Moderate, 10 miles, 5 hours round-trip) This trail ascends through old-growth forest to a beautiful, clear lake. Follow the short side trail to Ranger Falls. From the parking lot hike or bike 3.2 miles to the trailhead. River continues to braid and change channels as glacial sediment deposits shape its path. subalpine lake with the wakes ruffling the mountain’s reflections. Enjoy the serenity while fishing the deep waters or hiking the nearby trails. The road to Mowich is unpaved after the first three miles and may be rough. Mowich is reached via State Route 165. Carbon River Entrance Restrooms, picnic Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout (Moderate, Carbon River The dynamic, glacier-fed Carbon tables, and an interpretive trail are available at the entrance. Stretch your legs on the short 0.3-mile interpretive trail and discover a unique inland rainforest among Sitka spruce, Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. Note that the bridge is out so this is not currently a loop trail. Carbon River Trail This former road is now a trail due to repeated flood damage. Hike or bike the trail through this rainforest environment as the forest reveals views of glacier-fed Carbon River and surrounding mountains. Be prepared to navigate around trail washouts caused by flooding. From the parking lot, the trail gains 600 feet in elevation along its 5-mile length; some sections are rough and rocky. Bicycles are not permitted on any other trails in the area or in any off-trail areas. Bicyclists are subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel safely, and always wear a helmet. 5.6 miles, 3 hours round-trip) The historic fire lookout offers spectacular panoramic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding areas. Follow the Mowich Lake shore to Ipsut Pass for views of Carbon River Valley, Eunice Lake, and the final ascent up Tolmie Peak. The trail begins at the last bend in the road on the Mowich Lake Road, 5.5 miles from the park boundary. Please stay on the main trail near Eunice Lake to protect the fragile environment. Spray Park Trail (Moderate, 6 miles, 4 hours round-trip) Beautiful subalpine meadows with views of Mount Rainier are some of the rewards along this trail. The trail begins on the west side of the Mowich Lake Campground. Take the 0.25-mile spur to Spray Falls, a 300 foot cascading waterfall. Old Mine Trail (Moderate, 3 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Take a trip to the past by peering into the shaft of an open mine at the trail’s end. Hike or bike 1.2 miles from the parking lot to the trailhead. Park Partners Washington’s National Park Fund wnpf.org Mount Rainier National Park Volunteers nps.gov/mora/ getinvolved/ volunteer.htm Washington Trails Association wta.org 4 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2023 Discover Your Northwest discovernw.org Visit Rainier visitrainier.com Mount Rainier National Park Associates mrnpa.org Mount Rainier Institute packforest.org/ mtrainierinstitute/ Southwest: Visit Historic Longmire Deep in the valley of the Nisqually River, the village of Longmire preserves the history of the park’s first settlement and headquarters. The Longmire Museum is the starting point for the self-guided walking tour of the Longmire Historic District, where you can get a taste of early National Park Service rustic architecture. Follow the Trail of the Shadows to learn about the park’s first homestead and resort, next to Longmire Meadow’s mineral springs. Between Longmire and Nisqually Entrance, walk the Twin Firs Trail to view lowland old-growth forest; picnic at Kautz Creek and view the aftermath of the 1947 mudflow; or drive to Westside Road to see the dramatic results of flooding and rockfall. For great views of lava layers, glaciers, and deep glacial canyons, stop at the viewpoints along Ricksecker Road, between Longmire and Paradise. Bicycle or Hike Westside Road A popular mountain bike route, this gravel road is 13 miles one-way with an elevation gain of approximately 1,120 feet. Bicycles are not permitted on any park trails, or in any off-trail areas. Bicyclists are subject to the same laws as motor vehicles. Travel safely, and always wear a helmet. Twin Firs (Moderate, 0.4 miles, 30 minutes round-trip) Look for the Twin Firs Trail on the north side of the road one mile east of Kautz Creek or two miles west of Longmire. This short loop trail climbs through some of the best examples of the immense Douglas-firs that line much of the road between the Nisqually Entrance and Longmire. Picnic Picnic tables and restrooms can be found at Kautz Creek, Longmire, and three miles up the road at Cougar Rock Picnic Area. Cougar Rock Campground Situated in the southwest area of the park, this campground provides easy access to Longmire and Paradise. Campers can quickly jump on the 93-mile Wonderland Trail for a short 2.2-mile round-trip hike to Carter Falls, or for longer day hikes try hiking northeast to Narada Falls or southwest to Longmire. The number of campsites available may be reduced due to hazard trees and mitigation efforts. Trail of the Shadows (Easy, 0.7 miles, 30 pond, a historic cabin, and massive Douglas-fir and western red cedar trees. Perfect for families and nature lovers. Across the road, stop by the Longmire Museum to view the exhibits and ask for a Junior Ranger Activity Book, or grab lunch at the National Park Inn. Rampart Ridge (Strenuous, 4.6 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip) The Rampart Ridge Trail branches off the west side of the Trail of the Shadows, climbs steeply to the ridge-top, then circles back to Longmire by way of the Wonderland Trail. The lower portions of this trail climb through stands of ancient trees of various ages. Some Douglas-firs on the east side of the loop are around 1,000 years old. Eagle Peak (Strenuous, 7.2 miles, 5 hours round-trip) Cross the Nisqually River on the historic automobile suspension bridge at Longmire to access the trailhead. Eagle Peak offers panoramic views of the Nisqually Valley and Mount Rainier. The lower portions of the trail climb steeply through stands of ancient Douglas-fir and younger mountain hemlock trees. Carter Falls (Moderate, 2.2 miles, 2 hours round-trip) Stroll along the Paradise River from Cougar Rock Campground to Carter Falls. Forest ages vary from very young to very old, with some stands less than a century old and some more than 700 years old. Christine Falls A viewpoint just off the road gives a beautiful view of Christine Falls beneath the stone arch of the road bridge. Please pull completely off the road to park in a designated pullout. Walking on the road to view the waterfall can be hazardous. Comet Falls and Van Trump Park (Strenuous, 3.6 miles, 2.5 hours round-trip to Comet Falls) Look for a diversity of wildflowers in the forest and rocky canyon environments along this rugged trail, or climb another steep mile beyond the falls to a beautiful subalpine meadow. Narada Falls A short but moderately steep walk leads to a breathtaking view of Narada Falls on the Paradise River. On a sunny day, you can often see a rainbow refracted in the cool spray of the falls. minutes round-trip) Across the road from the Longmire Museum and National Park Inn, this easy loop trail takes you through the forested edge of a meadow passing mineral springs, a beaver Longmire Administration Building It's on the NPS App! Explore Historic Longmire Look for the Longmire Historic District Walking Tour in Things To Do/SelfGuided Tours. Download the app from Apple App Store or Google Play. Longmire Services and Facilities Longmire Museum Exhibits and Information Restrooms Located between the Museum and historic gas station. Picnic Area Located next to the gift shop. Wilderness Information Center Information and Wilderness Permits National Park Inn Gift Shop, Food, Lodging Camping The Cougar Rock Campground is located northwest of Longmire on Nisqually Road. Campground information is available on page 3. The number of campsites available may be reduced due to hazard trees and mitigation efforts. Emergency: Dial 911 NPS photo Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2023 | 5 South: Explore Paradise It's on the NPS App! Discover Wildflowers Discover Wildflowers is in Things To Do/Scenic Drives on the NPS App. Don't have the app? Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Paradise Meadows Paradise Services and Facilities Visitor Center Exhibits, Information, Programs, Restrooms, Water Fountain, Deli Paradise Inn Gift Shop, Dining, Grab and Go, Lodging Plaza Restrooms Located off the upper parking lot, adjacent to the main plaza. Picnic Area Located below and across the road from the lower parking lot. Paradise Wilderness Information Center (Guide House) Information, Climbing History Exhibits, and Wilderness Permits Besides glaciers, rivers, and forests, this area is rich in history, offers plenty of hiking, and has breathtaking vistas and a stunning profusion of wildflowers. Avoid crowds and traffic by visiting early or late in the day, or by visiting mid-week. Enjoy the meadows, take in a view of the mountain, or hike the trails. Myrtle Falls (Easy, 1 mile, 35 minutes round- A network of hiking trails provides access to outstanding wildflower meadows, broad views of Mount Rainier and its glaciers, and routes for skilled climbers attempting to reach the mountain’s summit. Photographers appreciate the high-country scenery at Inspiration Point and Reflection Lakes. Hikers looking for less-crowded trails might try the Lakes Trail, Mazama Ridge, and Snow Lake Trail located just east of Paradise. Consider Nisqually Vista or Myrtle Falls for young hikers, or Alta Vista or Glacier Vista for the more ambitious. Take lots of water and sunscreen! Alta Vista via the Alta Vista & Skyline Trails (Moderate, 1.75 miles, 1.25 hours round- Picnic Enjoy your picnic at the main picnic area, located below the lower parking lot. There are also picnic tables in the plaza outside the visitor center. Information Boards Stop at one of the information boards set up around Paradise for trip planning information and maps. Deadhorse Creek (Moderate, 2.5 miles, 1.75 hours round-trip) The flowers in this sheltered canyon bloom later but often more luxuriantly than anywhere else. Loop back on the Skyline Trail or continue on to Glacier Vista. trip) The trail to Myrtle Falls gradually climbs through lush meadows to 60 foot Myrtle Falls. You can’t beat this walk for wildflowers or for the drama of cascading water. Keep your eyes and ears open for hoary marmots; they often sunbathe on the rocks above the creek. trip) This short hike climbs to the top of Alta Peak for outstanding views of Mount Rainier, the Tatoosh Range, and, in the distance, Mount Adams. Watch for marmots as you pass through the colorful meadows. Skyline Trail (Strenuous, 5.5 miles, 4.5 hours round-trip) This trail offers a grand tour of Paradise Meadows, passing Alta Vista, Glacier Vista, Panorama Point, Pebble Creek, and Sluiskin and Myrtle falls. The elevation ranges from 5,400 to 7,000 feet, with wet and dry, exposed, and sheltered habitats. Shorter sections of the trail can be done, too. Great Mountain Views Mount Rainier can be seen from many locations at Paradise. You may need to move a short distance or wait for some clouds to move, but the parking lots, plazas, and trails all offer views of the mountain when skies are clear. There is no one best spot to see the mountain, but we recommend the Nisqually Vista, Myrtle Falls, Glacier Vista, or Alta Vista. Nisqually Vista (Easy, 1.2 miles, 45 minutes round-trip) Not as steep as most trails at Paradise, this route loops through flower-filled meadows and subalpine firs to a view of the Nisqually Glacier. Tatoosh Range and Autumn Sunset JD Hascup photo 6 | Mount Rainier National Park | Summer-Fall 2023 1 Best Trails for Waterfall Views Follow one of these hikes to view waterfalls in or near Paradise. Stay safe by not walking or climbing on rocks near waterfalls. Please stay on designated trails. designated a National Historic Landmark District. Notice the massive timbers and local stone blending the buildings with the natural settings and the steeply pitched roofs that shed heavy snow loads. Skyline Trail to Myrtle Falls and view of Sluiskin Falls View Sluiskin Falls northeast of Myrtle Falls from the Skyline Trail just past Myrtle Falls. Paradise Inn, one of the oldest inns in the National Park system, opened in 1917. The natural log architecture and handmade furniture makes a visit here feel like stepping into the past. Former President Harry Truman played the piano in 1945. Paradise to Ruby Falls and Narada Falls (2.2 miles round-trip. 800’ elevation gain, average hiking time: 1.5 hours.) From the southeast corner of the upper parking lot, take the Lakes Trail down. Follow signs for Narada Falls. Enjoy the cascading Ruby Falls before reaching the Narada Falls parking area and viewpoint. Return the same route. Historic Buildings Paradise has long been a destination for people attracted to Mount Rainier. In 1886, early entrepreneurs began providing visitor services at Paradise. Since then, the need for visitor facilities has grown and changed. Much of the 1920's village-like development has been removed throughout the years. Even so, in 1990, the roads, buildings, and trails that remained were Historic Paradise Ranger Station was built in 1921. It is the small building at the top of the parking area. It is not open to the public and is now used for emergency service employees. Guide House was built in 1920. For many years climbers began their climbs to Mount Rainier's summit from its threshold. For online Paradise information scan the QR code or go to https://go.nps.gov/1jvqr0 Paradise Camp Lodge was constructed in 1931 and demolished in the mid-1950s. The current visitor center stands on the original footprint of this building. Explore the exhibits and film, stop in for some lunch, or talk with a ranger. Emergency: Dial 911 Discover Reflection Lakes and Nearby Trails A short drive down the scenic Paradise Valley Road and along the top of Stevens Canyon Road leads to Reflection Lakes. Or hike the Lakes Trail from Paradise. Along the way, enjoy wildflowers in summer and fall colors later in the year, and watch for marmots and black bears. Reflection Lakes are closed to fishing, boating, wading, and swimming; Nearby Lake Louise is open to these activities. Restrooms are not available– please plan ahead. Protect lakes, aquatic ecosystems, and vegetation by staying on established trails. Lakes Loop (Moderate, 5 miles, Snow Lake Pinnacle Peak (Moderate, 3.0 4 hours round-trip) The trail winds through picturesque subalpine meadows and forests and along subalpine lakes. This loop passes through Paradise, circling along Mazama Ridge down to Reflection Lakes. Consider hiking thi