Paradise Inn
Historic lodge in Mt. Rainier NP offering rustic rooms, dining, and unparalleled access to hiking trails and mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear mountain views
Paradise Inn
Best Time
Best chance for clear mountain views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lodge in Mt. Rainier NP offering rustic rooms, dining, and unparalleled access to hiking trails and mountain vistas.
"The location is unbeatable. Very convenient! Rates were high during the summer, but I would stay here again."
Book Rooms Early! 🗓️
Paradise Inn is popular; book months ahead, especially for summer/fall.
Embrace Rustic Charm ✨
Rooms are small but cozy. Enjoy the historic ambiance over luxury.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Paradise Inn Lodge
Paradise area, Mount Rainier National Park
Step back in time at this iconic 1916 lodge, offering rustic rooms, a cozy lounge, and stunning mountain views.
Cannibal Hot Tub Experience
Paradise Village Lodge, Ashford, WA
Unique wood-fired hot tub offering a quirky and memorable outdoor relaxation experience.
Ukrainian Cuisine
Paradise Village Lodge, Ashford, WA
Savor authentic Ukrainian dishes in a cozy mountain setting, a delightful culinary surprise.
Proximity to Hiking Trails
Mount Rainier National Park
Direct access to renowned trails like Skyline Trail, making it an ideal base for hikers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Stays
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Rooms Early! 🗓️
Paradise Inn is popular; book months ahead, especially for summer/fall. +1
Embrace Rustic Charm ✨
Rooms are small but cozy. Enjoy the historic ambiance over luxury.
Limited Dining Options 🍽️
Bring snacks or plan meals; on-site dining is available but can be pricey.
Parking Challenges 🚗
Parking is very limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or be prepared to walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Rooms Early! 🗓️
Paradise Inn is popular; book months ahead, especially for summer/fall. +1
Embrace Rustic Charm ✨
Rooms are small but cozy. Enjoy the historic ambiance over luxury.
Limited Dining Options 🍽️
Bring snacks or plan meals; on-site dining is available but can be pricey.
Parking Challenges 🚗
Parking is very limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or be prepared to walk.
Cannibal Hot Tub Fun 🔥
Experience the unique wood-fired hot tub at Paradise Village Lodge for a memorable soak. +1
Ukrainian Delights 🥟
Don't miss the authentic Ukrainian food at Paradise Village Lodge in Ashford. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Paradise Inn for its unbeatable location within Mount Rainier National Park, offering direct access to stunning hiking trails and historic charm. While rooms are noted as small and rustic, the overall experience is highly valued for its proximity to nature and the unique ambiance of the lodge. Dining options are available but can be limited and pricey, and parking is a significant challenge during peak times.
"Rooms are good. They are small (but I knew it before getting there) and simple. Functional. It's not a luxurious place. No complaints.
Service was adequate. We booked several rooms, but the keys they gave us were not numbered. So had to ask the staff to put some Post-its on the spot. Not sure why they didn't think of it.
The location is unbeatable. Very convenient! Rates were high during the summer, but I would stay here again.
Btw, very limited dining options. We brought a box of pizza from the city and someone seemed like they wanted to buy it from us."
G H
"Loved every minute of our quick stay here! The great family room is expansive and warm. The restaurant dining on site has delish food for everyone including toddlers. The rooms are quaint & cozy for the value you are getting to be so close to so many nearby hiking trails. My family had so much fun here, made so many memories, and would love to be back someday! Hope you all have a fabulous time!!"
Camille “Milly” Simon Auman
"The rooms are small but that's not usually the reason you are staying at Paradise. The beds eye comfortable and the shower/bath was great after a long day hiking (if you get a private bathroom). The service was excellent and we enjoyed a lovely dinner on the dining room for about $30-$40 a person."
Kari Mentzer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paradise Inn is located within Mount Rainier National Park in the Paradise area. The most common access is via the Nisqually Entrance on the southwest side of the park. From Ashford, WA, it's about a 30-40 minute drive up WA-706 into the park. +1
Public transportation directly to Paradise Inn is very limited. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles. The closest town with more services is Ashford, WA.
Roads within Mount Rainier National Park, including the road to Paradise Inn, are generally well-maintained. However, conditions can change rapidly, especially in shoulder seasons and winter. Always check the park's official website for current road status and closures.
Parking at Paradise Inn is extremely limited, especially during peak season and busy hours. Guests are advised to arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from designated parking areas.
The closest town to Paradise Inn is Ashford, WA, which offers various lodging options, restaurants, and services. Paradise Village Lodge, known for its unique hot tub and Ukrainian cuisine, is also located in Ashford. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Mount Rainier National Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle. This fee grants access to the park, including the Paradise area where Paradise Inn is located.
Paradise Inn is a seasonal lodge, typically open from May through October. It's always best to check the official Mount Rainier National Park website or the inn's direct contact for the most up-to-date operating dates.
Yes, you can visit the Paradise area and the historic lodge during its operating hours even if you are not a guest. The lobby, cafe, and gift shop are usually accessible to the public.
While specific discounts are not widely advertised, booking in advance is recommended. Some social media posts mention potential discounts with promo codes for nearby lodges like Paradise Village.
The best way to book a room at Paradise Inn is directly through the official Mount Rainier National Park lodging website or by contacting them directly. Booking well in advance is highly recommended due to high demand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Rooms at Paradise Inn are described as small, simple, and functional, offering a rustic and cozy atmosphere. They are not luxurious but provide a comfortable base for exploring the park.
The inn features a historic lobby with fireplaces, a cafe, a gift shop, and a dining room. Some rooms have private bathrooms, while others may be more basic.
Yes, Paradise Inn has an on-site dining room that serves meals. Visitors also mention bringing their own food or pizza due to limited options.
Paradise Inn is perfectly situated for accessing numerous hiking trails, including the famous Skyline Trail. Myrtle Falls and Reflection Lakes are also nearby attractions.
Wi-Fi availability can be spotty within national parks. It's advisable to expect limited or no Wi-Fi and to download any necessary information beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Paradise Inn has an on-site dining room offering meals. For more diverse options, visitors often head to Ashford, WA, where Paradise Village Lodge serves authentic Ukrainian cuisine.
Dining at Paradise Inn can be moderately expensive, with mentions of around $30-$40 per person for dinner. Bringing snacks or some pre-prepared food is a common strategy.
Yes, you can pre-order breakfast sandwiches from Paradise Inn for early morning hikes, which is a convenient option for maximizing your time in the park.
Paradise Village Lodge in Ashford, WA, specializes in authentic Ukrainian cuisine, offering a unique culinary experience in a mountain setting. +1
Information on specific dietary options at Paradise Inn's dining room is limited. It's recommended to inquire directly with the restaurant upon arrival or when making reservations.
📸 📸 Photography
The Paradise area itself offers stunning views of Mount Rainier. Key photography spots include Reflection Lakes for mirror-like images, Myrtle Falls for waterfall shots, and various viewpoints along the Skyline Trail.
Early morning and late afternoon/early evening offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and softer shadows. Sunrise and sunset can provide dramatic alpenglow on Mount Rainier.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand mountain vistas and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, the 'Cannibal Hot Tub' at Paradise Village Lodge offers a unique and quirky photo opportunity, especially with the surrounding natural scenery. +1
Summer offers vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall provides stunning autumn colors. Winter offers a serene, snow-covered landscape, though access and conditions can be challenging.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more playful experience, the Cannibal Hot Tub at Paradise Village Lodge in nearby Ashford offers a fun and memorable activity for older children and teens. The Ukrainian restaurant there also provides a unique culinary adventure. Easy hikes like the Nisqually Vista Trail are perfect for little legs.
hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1Wake up early to beat the crowds and catch the best light for photography. Explore nearby Reflection Lakes for iconic mirror images of the mountain and hike to Myrtle Falls for a picturesque waterfall scene. The inn itself provides a cozy base to rest and recharge after a day of exploring the park's diverse landscapes.
Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and snacks is highly recommended to cut down on dining costs. Alternatively, explore lodging options in towns outside the park, like Ashford, which may offer more budget-friendly choices. Paradise Village Lodge in Ashford, while offering unique experiences, also has lodging options that might be more accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Paradise Inn
+1Staying at the Paradise Inn means waking up in the heart of one of the park's most scenic areas. The rooms are intentionally kept simple and cozy, reflecting the historic nature of the building. While they may be smaller than modern hotel rooms, they provide a comfortable and authentic mountain lodge experience. The proximity to major trailheads, like the Skyline Trail, is unparalleled, allowing guests to start their adventures right from their doorstep.
Beyond the lodging, the inn serves as a central hub for visitors. It houses a dining room, a cafe, and a gift shop. The dining room offers a chance to enjoy a meal with a view, though it's advisable to check hours and make reservations. The cafe is perfect for a quick coffee or snack before heading out on a hike. The overall atmosphere is one of tranquility and connection with nature, making it a truly special place to stay.
Unique Experiences at Paradise Village Lodge
Beyond the hot tub, Paradise Village Lodge is also home to an authentic Ukrainian restaurant. This culinary offering provides a delightful contrast to typical park fare, allowing visitors to savor traditional Ukrainian dishes in a cozy mountain setting. It's a chance to experience a different culture while immersed in the Pacific Northwest's stunning landscape.
Paradise Village Lodge also offers lodging, including cozy cabins and rooms, making it a convenient base for exploring Mount Rainier National Park. The combination of unique recreational activities like the hot tub and diverse dining options makes it a noteworthy stop for travelers seeking experiences beyond the ordinary.
Navigating Mount Rainier National Park
+1When visiting, it's essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions, even in summer. Layers of clothing are recommended. Hiking is a primary activity, with trails ranging from easy, paved paths like the Nisqually Vista Trail to more strenuous climbs like the Skyline Trail, which offers panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding glaciers.
Parking is a significant consideration, especially in the Paradise area during peak season. Arriving early in the morning is highly advised to secure a spot. For those looking to explore beyond Paradise, other notable areas include Sunrise (the park's highest point accessible by vehicle) and the Grove of the Patriarchs (featuring old-growth forests). Always check the park's official website for the latest information on road status, trail conditions, and any potential alerts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit