Paradise

The park's most popular destination, Paradise is famous for its glorious views and wildflower meadows during the summer and hosts record snowfalls in winter receiving on average 641 inches (53.4 feet/16.3 meters) of snow a year. Hiking trails lead through meadows and up onto the mountain's snowfields, making this a great place for dayhikers. Paradise is also the prime winter-use area in the park due to the huge amount of snow it receives. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and tubing. The road between Longmire and Paradise is plowed throughout the winter. This area also includes The historic Paradise Inn, a concessioner-operated hotel, offers lodging, a dining room and a gift shop. The Paradise Inn is usually open from mid-May to early-October and is closed in the winter. The Guide House houses the Paradise Climbing Information Center, where visitors can obtain climbing permits and hiking and backcountry camping information and the historic Paradise Ranger Station.