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Paradise
When a relative of James Longmire (an early settler of the region) first saw this meadow, she exclaimed, "This must be what Paradise is like." Located 11 miles from Longmire, Paradise is the most visited destination in the park, famous for its beautiful views of the mountain and wildflower meadows.
Be Prepared:
- Due to the construction of a new visitor center in the upper parking lot, as well as the restoration of the historic Paradise Inn (until May 2008), parking is limited. Visitors can park in the Jackson Visitor Center lot and along the Paradise Valley Road. Be prepared to park along this road and walk back up to Paradise.
- Some of the hiking trails can be strenuous, so bring essentials for your comfort, such as hiking shoes/sneakers, bottled water, food, sunscreen, etc.
- The surrounding meadows and plant life are delicate, so don't stray from the trails or pick the flowers (it's prohibited by federal law).
What to Expect:
- Vast subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers (best seen in mid-July through August). Some varieties include Magenta Paintbrush, Lupine, Cascade Aster and Lewis Monkeyflower
- Miles of hiking trails for all endurance levels.
- Views of Mt. Rainier, glaciers and the Tatoosh Range.
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