One of my year time favorite spots in Washington is Mount Rainier National Park. However, due to the heavy amount of snowfall, Mount Rainier has limitations and accessibility concerns in the winter. In the winter, all park roads except the road to Longmire/Paradise are closed for the winter season. Occasionally, The Longmire to Paradise Road is open every Thurs – Mon between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. (uphill gate closes at 4 p.m.) during the winter season, weather dependent. You will always want to second check the road status here. Have no fear though, Longmire in the Winter is still fun!

Longmire in the Winter is like a Winter wonderland. You will always want to make sure you carry the “10 essentials” and practice leave no trace strategies during your stay. The 10 essentials will keep you safer in dangerous situations and leave no trace will help the environment!

Remember, trail conditions can always change, so check trail conditions or check with rangers before hiking.

Below are some accessible hikes year round, as well as hikes that are more popular in Longmire in the Winter.

Easy Trails:

Trail of the Shadows– The shortest and easiest of all hikes coming under just one mile and less than 30 minutes! This hike starts at Longmire Springs Resort. The hike starts across the Longmire Museum.

Christine Falls (accessible drive)- This is accessed along the road to Paradise and is open year-round. Driving 4.5 miles east of Longmire you will reach Christine Falls pullout, right past the Comet Falls parking area. In the winter, the trail can be quite icy, but if you have the right gear you will reach the 60 ft falls!

Moderate Trails:

Rampart Ridge– This trail is used for hiking and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Check the status for Winter access.

Carter Falls (accessible year-round)- A beautiful wonderland option! This hike starts at Longmire parking lot. Picture a Winter Wonderland and you’ve found it. Depending on the snow quality, you will need snowshoes, spikes, or skis! On this hike it is not uncommon to see many people skinning. You can make the hike further (weather and terrain dependent) and go beyond towards Paradise, or Carter/Madcap/Narada falls.

Kautz Creek

Difficult Trails:

Wonderland Trail to Paradise or Indian Henrys (not accessible in Winter)

Eagle Peak Saddle (not accessible in Winter)

Comet Falls and Van Trump Park (not accessible in Winter)

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