Paradise

Paradise Visitor Centre, Mt. Rainier National Park

The Visitor Centre at Paradise. I believe it will soon be demolished, as it's design is somewhat out of character with the natural environment, and is also no longer able to handle the crowds. Perhaps because it was late in the year for such nice weather, there were many people enjoying the scenery. The parking lot at the centre was full, and the one at the upper lot was nearly so. The elevation here is 5,400 feet (1647m).

Paradise Visitor Centre, Mt. Rainier National Park

The Tatoosh Range. The tallest peak would appear to be Pinnacle Peak, at 6562 feet (2000m).

Paradise Visitor Centre, Mt. Rainier National Park

Looking down the Nisqually Valley, from the south east of the Visitor Center. This is the route out for me, as it leads roughly west.

Paradise Visitor Centre, Mt. Rainier National Park

Plenty of easy hiking paths around the area. And autumnal tonings too.

Paradise Visitor Centre, Mt. Rainier National Park

From the upper parking lot. Note that the top of the mountain is some 9000 feet (2800m) higher than this!

left arrowBox Canyon
up arrow 2000
Nisqually Riverright arrow