Paradise is famous for its glorious views and wildflower meadows. When James Longmire’s daughter-in-law, Martha, first saw this site, she exclaimed, “Oh what a Paradise!” The park’s main visitor center, the new Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, is located in the upper parking area. Paradise is also the prime winter-use area in the park, receiving on average 680 inches of snow per year. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and tubing. The road between Longmire and Paradise is plowed throughout the winter. See the current Road Status for updated information about park roads.

Paradise is located 19 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles east of Longmire.

Services at Paradise include the following (see Operating Hours and Seasons for current information about these facilities):

The new Paradise Jackson Visitor Center offers general information, exhibits, the new park film, guided ranger programs, book/gift store and snack bar. This visitor center is usually open daily from May to early October. From mid-October through April, it is usually open only on weekends and holidays.

The historic Paradise Inn, a concessionaire operated hotel (currently closed for reconstruction), offers lodging, a dining room and a gift shop. The Paradise Inn is usually open from late May to early October and closed in the winter.

The Guide House houses the Paradise Wilderness Information Center, where visitors can obtain wilderness permits and hiking and backcountry camping information.

The historic Paradise Ranger Station, is also located at Paradise. Information services formerly available at the Paradise Ranger Station are now available at the Guide House. 

If you plan to visit Paradise, remember that Paradise is located at an elevation of 5,400 feet and trails have at least some steeper sections. Please stay on the trails; the meadows are very fragile and heavily visited.

Enjoy these day hikes in the Paradise area.