Alta Vista Trail

Mt. Rainier rises over 14,410 feet and the views you get from the Paradise area on the South side of the mountain are unparalleled. Paradise is one of the few places in Mt. Rainier National Park that is open to visitors during the winter months for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and many other winter activities. Most visitors to the Paradise area will park at the main parking lot ...

It's always a good idea to check the weather, but when it comes to getting a peak at Mt. Rainier you might be better off just showing up and hoping for a miracle. To do this from Seattle, you'll have a 2 hour 20 minute drive down I-5 and WA-167. After a couple turns here and there (you can follow the directions for the google maps directions) you'll hit Paradise Road E, which will take you dire...

This 3.8-mile hike begins at the Paradise Visitors Center in Mount Rainier National Park. You just follow the skyline trail that begins from the steps with the John Muir quote on them. The hike goes up 1700 feet to its highest point at 7100 feet. From this high up you have some amazing views of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding land. The view from Panorama Point is well worth the effort it takes ...

The trailhead to Skyline Trail is located at the north side of the upper parking lot near the Visitor Center and Paradise Inn. You'll see that it breaks off into many other small trails if you want, as well. However, this 5.5 mile hike alongside Nisqually Glacier is classified by the rangers at Mt. Rainier as strenuous. I would say for the first 1/2 mile or so that rings true. It almost feels...

Nicely situated a couple hours south of Seattle and north of Portland, Mt. Rainier is easily accessible. Before leaving make sure to pack a set of snow chains, for the park requires chains for most vehicles throughout the winter. Head towards the Nisqually entrance to the park.  Upon entering the park, grab a map or use the route below. Personally, my favorite trails are up in the Paradise are...

Head out to Myrtle Falls in the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park. This trail will take you to a beautiful 72-foot waterfall. This .97-mile hike leads to 72-foot Myrtle Falls with snowy Mt. Rainier in the background. Follow the Skyline or Golden Gate trail and then cross the footbridge over Edith Creek Basin and head left. After enjoying the views at the falls, turn around or contin...