The most popular trail in Mount Rainier National Park traverses alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers in summer with constant views of the 4,392m glacier-clad volcano.
The Skyline Trail loops above the Paradise subalpine meadows at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State, beginning at the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise at 1,646 metres elevation. Paradise is accessible via Highway 706 through the Nisqually Entrance on the park's southwest side — approximately 150 kilometres southeast of Seattle — or via Stevens Canyon Road from the east, typically open only from July through October. The visitor centre parking lot fills before noon on summer weekends; the park recommends arriving before 9 AM or using the park-and-ride shuttle service from Ashford during peak season. No hiking permit is required, though the park charges an entrance fee. The 8.5-kilometre loop gains 500 metres, circling above the meadow zone through progressively more exposed alpine terrain before returning on the lower Skyline route. The trail begins on well-maintained paved paths near the visitor centre before transitioning to compacted gravel and then rocky alpine terrain above the persistent snowline. Snow frequently covers portions of the upper loop through July and occasionally into August; microspikes or traction devices are recommended for early-season visits. Myrtle Falls — an 18-metre ribbon waterfall dropping over a basalt ledge — sits approximately 1 kilometre from the visitor centre and is accessible even for those not completing the full loop. Above the falls, the trail climbs through subalpine meadows carpeted from July through September with lupine, Indian paintbrush, bistort, and avalanche lilies in one of the finest wildflower displays in the Pacific Northwest. Mount Rainier's glaciated summit appears throughout the upper loop, with the Muir Snowfield and Cowlitz Glacier prominently visible. Panorama Point at the loop's high point of 2,019 metres offers a 360-degree vista over the Carbon River valley, the Tatoosh Range, and the broader Cascade Range. The descent follows the Golden Gate Trail back to Paradise.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
- Best season
- Mid-July to mid-September (snow-free conditions and peak wildflower bloom)
Highlights
- Rainier glacier views
- alpine wildflowers
- Myrtle Falls waterfall
- wildlife viewing
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends to secure parking at Paradise; the lot fills completely by late morning from July through August.
- Carry microspikes or traction devices for visits before mid-July, when snow patches on the upper loop can become icy overnight.
- Wildlife is abundant in the meadows — black-tailed deer, hoary marmots, black bears, and Clark's nutcrackers are commonly seen from July through September.
- Afternoon fog and rain are common at Paradise even on days that begin clear; carry a rain shell and extra insulating layer at all times.
- Stay strictly on designated trail surfaces; meadow plants at this elevation require decades to recover from trampling and restoration work is ongoing.
- The park entry fee is accepted at the Nisqually Entrance tollbooth or in advance; America the Beautiful annual passes are accepted at all entrances.
When to visit
Mid-July through mid-September offers the optimal combination of snow-free trail, peak wildflower bloom, and clear summit views. Weekday visits or early-morning arrivals on weekends significantly reduce parking congestion and allow more solitary meadow experiences.
Accessibility
The paved path from the Paradise Visitor Centre to the Myrtle Falls viewpoint is navigable by wheelchair with assistance over some gentle inclines and is a worthwhile destination for visitors with limited mobility. The Skyline Trail loop beyond Myrtle Falls is rocky, steep, and snow-covered in early season, making it unsuitable for wheelchair or stroller use. A dedicated accessible viewing area near the visitor centre provides views of Mount Rainier's summit without trail travel.
Frequently asked questions
When does snow clear from the Skyline Trail?
The lower sections near the visitor centre are typically clear by late June. The upper loop near Panorama Point often retains snow through July and occasionally into August. Current trail conditions are posted weekly on the Mount Rainier NPS website.
Is the Skyline Trail suitable for young children?
The lower section to Myrtle Falls is paved, gentle, and suitable for young children and most fitness levels. The full loop involves sustained climbing on rocky terrain and is better suited to older children and adults with hiking experience.
When is the best time to see the wildflower bloom?
The prime wildflower window at Paradise typically runs from mid-July through mid-August, though timing varies by year depending on winter snowpack. Early-season visits may find patches of snow alongside the first flowers emerging at lower elevations.
Is there food or lodging available at Paradise?
The Paradise Inn, open from late May through mid-October, provides lodging and a dining room. A snack bar operates at the visitor centre during summer. Reservations for the Paradise Inn should be made well in advance as availability is limited.
Are dogs permitted on the Skyline Trail?
Dogs are not permitted on any trail within Mount Rainier National Park, including the Skyline Trail. Dogs are permitted in paved parking areas and on paved roads only.