Washington
Camp Muir Ski Tour
About this ski route
The tour from Paradise to Camp Muir is the standard big day on Mount Rainier that does not require glacier travel: 4,600 feet of climbing up the Muir Snowfield to the high camp used by most summit parties, then a continuous 4,600 foot descent back. It is snow-covered nearly year round, which makes it one of the longest ski descents accessible without a bivouac anywhere in the lower 48.
Paradise up the Muir Snowfield past Panorama Point to Camp Muir at 10,188 feet on Mount Rainier.
Highlights
What earns the trip
- A continuous 4,600 foot descent on the way back down
- Camp Muir at 10,188 feet, the staging camp for summit attempts
- Skiable most of the year, including midsummer
- Views across to Mount Adams, Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens
Stops
- 1
Paradise
The trailhead and visitor center at 5,400 feet.
- 2
Panorama Point
The first major landmark on the climb.
- 3
Camp Muir
High camp at 10,188 feet, on the edge of the snowfield.
When to go
Best time to go
April through July offers the most reliable snow and the most settled weather.
Planner estimate for the mapped line: 14 min
Before you go
Know before you go
- Weather on the snowfield turns without warning, and whiteout navigation is the single most common cause of trouble here. Carry a compass and a set of bearings, not just a phone.
- Do not stray onto the glaciers on either side of the snowfield. They are crevassed.
- Register at the ranger station and check the current conditions before starting up.
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