Paradise Road

WA 706, National Park Highway · Ashford → Paradise

Twisty23 mi45 min4,000 ft climbHigh point ≈ 5,400 ftOne way

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The drive

Paradise Road leads from Ashford through the Nisqually Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park and follows the Nisqually River to Longmire, then climbs about 12 miles to Paradise, the subalpine meadows at the foot of the mountain at about 5,400 feet. Christine Falls and Narada Falls are on the way up.

The road is winding with narrow shoulders and a speed limit of 35 mph in most places, and the climb brings three tight stretches.

The drive is 23.2 miles and takes about 45 minutes. It is open year round to Paradise, subject to weather.

Along the way

Ashford
Longmire
Paradise

Elevation

4,000 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 5,400 ft

AshfordParadise

Curves

Mostly moderate, with three twisty stretches

mi 9–11mi 13–17mi 18–24

AshfordParadise

GentleHairpins

Good to know

There is a park entrance fee at the Nisqually Entrance.
From November 1 through May 1, chains are required on all vehicles.
In winter the Longmire gate closes nightly and can close any time for weather; the park suggests leaving Paradise by 4:30 p.m.
On summer weekends the Paradise parking lots fill by late morning, and parking along the road is not allowed.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Mount Rainier National Park: road status.

Questions about this drive

How long does Paradise Road take to drive?

Ashford to Paradise is 23.2 miles and takes about 45 minutes. Longmire to Paradise is about 12 miles.

Is the road to Paradise open in winter?

Yes, but the Longmire gate closes at night from November 1 and can close any time for weather. Chains are required on all vehicles from November 1 to May 1.

When does Paradise parking fill up?

On summer weekends the Paradise lots fill by late morning.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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