Set on the south side of Mount Rainier at approximately 5,400 feet, Paradise is one of the park’s most popular destinations—and the scenery makes it easy to understand why. On clear days, Mount Rainier rises dramatically above the surrounding subalpine meadows, while summer brings carpets of wildflowers and fall transforms the landscape with rich seasonal color.
At the heart of the area is the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, where visitors can find park information, interpretive exhibits, a park film, ranger programs, food service, and a gift shop. The visitor center also serves as a convenient starting point for exploring Paradise's network of trails and viewpoints.
From here, visitors can head into the meadows, enjoy views along the Skyline Trail area, explore nearby viewpoints, or simply take in the mountain scenery. Paradise is beautiful throughout the year, with hiking and wildflowers during the warmer months and a snow-covered landscape popular for winter recreation. Because weather, road access, and services can change seasonally, visitors should check current Mount Rainier National Park conditions before making the trip.