Camp Muir & Anvil Rock

getting there

From SR-7 in Elbe, turn east onto SR-706, both known as the National Park Highway. Continue through the Nisqually Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park. Be prepared to pay the fee just after entering the park. Drive 19 miles to Paradise.

In winter, ALL drivers in the park are required to carry snow chains or equivalent traction devices—this includes those with a 4-wheel or  all-wheel drive vehicle. Those without a 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle may be required to install them at Longmire or beyond.

APPROACH & Ascent

Begin at the Paradise parking lot. Depending on the season you may be starting on snow or you can pick one of the many trails that travels up the hillside towards the Muir Snowfield. Later in the season you'll travel from a botanical garden of wildflowers to rocks and then the Muir Snowfield with Mount Rainier in full view the whole way. At Camp Muir views of the Tatoosh Range, the southern Cascades and far down to Oregon are a sight that you will remember forever.

ANVIL ROCK

At 8,640 feet you'll reach a rocky promontory which forms the leading edge of a ridge that connects to the 9,584-foot Anvil Rock. To reach the small summit simply traverse about a half mile from this point heading north-northeast.

notes

• No camping is allowed in Paradise parking area. The nearest car camping available at Cougar Rock Campground.

Information for Leaders

Check with Mount Rainier National Park (land manger link below) to be sure you have the required camping and climbing permits.

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing, Scrambling, Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: M2 Advanced Ski, Snow Scramble, Winter Scramble, Very Strenuous
• Length: 10.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,600 ft
• High Point: 10,000 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Rainier National Park
  Mount Rainier Wilderness
• Parking Permit Required: National Park Entrance Fee
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12