Skyline Trail at Paradise (Mount Rainier)

The Skyline Trail at Paradise is a signature loop in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, climbing above subalpine meadows to views of Nisqually Glacier and the mountain's upper slopes. The route starts at the Paradise Visitor Center, Paradise, WA 98304, about a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle via SR-706 through Ashford. Park entry is about $30 per vehicle for seven days, and no timed-entry reservation is in place for 2026, though visitors should confirm current rules with the National Park Service. The loop is about 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with roughly 1,700 ft (518 m) of gain and usually takes three to five hours, placing it in the moderate category because of sustained climbing at altitude on mostly well-built trail. Surfaces include paved sections near the visitor center, then rock and dirt trail, stone steps and, early in the season, snowfields that can hide the path. The route is almost entirely exposed, with little shade, so sun, wind and rapid weather changes are real concerns even in summer. Key landmarks include the climb through Alta Vista, the overlook at Panorama Point, the high turn toward Glacier Vista, and views of Myrtle Falls and the Nisqually Glacier. Hikers can shorten the loop by returning on connector trails from Glacier Vista or Panorama Point. Wildflowers peak from late July through August, and marmots and deer are common. Restrooms and water are available at the Paradise visitor facilities, but not along the high trail, and there are no huts or shelters. Snow can linger into July, and visibility may drop quickly in cloud, so route-finding skills and sturdy footwear matter. The park phone is 360-569-2211.