Mazama Ridge

Mazama Ridge lies on the southern flank of Mt. Rainier and is a prime winter ski tour when the storms of winter white out the higher ski terrain above Paradise. On days with better weather and visibility, continuing up the same route to the Paradise Glacier and Cowlitz Rocks offers a high alpine touring experience within 2 hours of the Paradise parking lot. The snow if often best in the protected areas of Mazama Ridge, especially in the later part of spring when the sun’s intensity can firm up exposed slopes quickly. Cowlitz Rocks is a great destination for snowshoers and can be done with little avalanche danger en route to the rocks.