Trail stats
Distance: 9 KM (loop)
Elevation gain: 550m
Time needed: 3-4 hours
Difficulty level: Easy-Moderate
Parking: Yes, the trail begins at the Jackson Visitor Centre so there is lots of parking but it is a very busy trail
Getting to the trailhead
The trail is located in the Paradise area of Mt. Rainier which is on the east side of the park. You can park at the Jackson Visitor Centre, however be ready for big crowds and the possibility of the lot being full by 9:00 AM on the weekend. Right outside the visitor centre, there is a broad stone staircase known as the Muir Steps. They are named after John Muir and are inscribed with one of his most famous quotes: “the mountains are calling and I must go.” This is where the trail begins.
The Trail
Since this trail is a loop, you can start either direction but it is generally easier to follow the crowd and begin clockwise. You will begin hiking on a wide paved path that eventually turns to a well-built dirt/rock trail. The views are instant on this trail, so expect the start of the trail to be very busy with families.
You will steadily climb through wildflower meadows where you will cross some small streams via wooden bridges. The steepest part of the hike is about a kilometre in and you will undertake some switchbacks and some stoned staircases. The trail is very well maintained and is built in a way to make it as easy as possible for people.
You will eventually arrive at Panorama Point where you have an amazing view of Mount Rainier towering directly overhead. This is the perfect spot for lunch as the views are incredible, from meadows of wildflowers to glaciers.
The next part of the trail is called the High Skyline Trail that traverses alpine slopes, rocky terrain and essentially you’ll walk beneath cliffs and glacial terrain with almost continuous views of Rainier. The National Park Service recommends following this trail because the original route includes a steep snow slope that often remains icy well into summer.
You begin descending through Paradise Valley which is a very fitting name. There are more small streams to cross and we stopped by a small waterfall for a break and to escape the crowd. That’s when we noticed people ahead of us looking up the mountain and when we got closer, we saw a mountain goat!
Within the last kilometre of the trail, you will approach Myrtle Falls, another busy spot given its proximity to the visitor centre and well-paved path.
This is probably the best hike you can do in Mount Rainier as it has it all – lush meadows, waterfalls, glaciers, alpine ridges, and panoramic volcanic views.
Tips / Advice
A park pass is required to enter Mt. Rainier
Because of its popularity, get to the trailhead as early as possible
