This trail stays right along the edge of timber line, making it one of the most spectacular routes for snowshoers (and cross-country skiers) in Mount Rainier National Park. The trail provides a wonderful experience in a winter forest, the chance to visit a frozen alpine lake, and subalpine meadows in which to play and soak up the scenery.

From the upper end of the parking area, go right along a plowed driveway, passing a warming hut and restrooms, as well as a long maintenance shed, to find the trail. If the snow is stable and not too deep, climb the steep, open slope directly ahead to reach the main trail. If conditions are icy, or the climb looks too steep, follow the orange blazes to the left through the trees as the trail parallels the bottom of the hill. Soon you'll begin angling uphill and will quickly top out on a wide, level trail--it is actually the Paradise-Stevens Canyon Road.

Turn right, and snowshoe along this road as it loops out around the flank of Inspiration Point. The road quickly bears to the left and enters a long corridor in the forest. The way has little elevation gain, but it can't be called level because the snow rolls through tree wells and snowdrifts.

This trail through the trees brings you right to the edge of Reflection Lakes at 1.5 miles--although don't count on seeing your reflection because the lakes stay frozen over until June. That doesn't mean, however, that the ice is safe. This is an active volcano, and all that geothermal power keeps warm springs bubbling around and in most of the lakes in the area. That, in turn, keeps the ice on the lake surface thin and dangerous. But do take some time and expend a little energy exploring this lake basin and enjoying the stunning views of Mount Rainier, as well as the jagged line of peaks in the Tatoosh Range to the south.

From Reflection Lakes, push on east along the road as it curves through a big southern bend and then drops nearly 300 feet in 1 mile to loop down to the shore of Louise Lake. If the snow is stable, drop off the road just as it enters that big bend and angle down the slope directly to the lakeshore.

A camp on the eastern edge of the lake offers great views of a climbing route up Mount Rainier--someone always seems to be making an attempt at the summit. You'll also find that a camp on the east slope above the lake gives you a fantastic surprise in the morning--a stunning sunrise as the towering peak of Mount Rainier starts to glow first and then the sunlight moves slowly downslope until the entire 14,411-foot peak is brightly lit.

Author’s Rating: More Difficult
Some previous snowshoe experience helpful. Some winter survival skills recommended (basic knowledge of avalanche evaluation, emergency shelter construction, etc.). Elevation gain is usually less than 1000 feet with a gradual slope.