Palisades
Mount Rainier Area
The Palisades trail is significantly impacted by numerous blowdowns, particularly a major obstacle just before the staircase, as reported on June 9, 2026. This section requires careful navigation and is not suitable for casual hikers. While the trail is generally clear above the staircase, with good views reported on May 6 and April 28, 2026, earlier reports from March and April indicate snow, ice, and difficult stream crossings making passage challenging. Hikers should be prepared for extensive tree scrambling throughout the trail. Parking and road status are not mentioned in the reports.
generated from 35 reports
Conditions at a Glance
Trail
Trail in good condition
1 of 1
Snow
Intermittent snow - not hard to cross
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Road
Road suitable for all vehicles
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Bugs
No bugs
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Sources
Hiked up to the 3rd overlook on Palisades today. gorgeous chill trail once past the blowdowns! As mentioned in previous reviews, the gnarly blowdown just before the stairs is still there (last picture...
Agree with prior trip report. Trail would be great except blowdowns, about 20 minor under over, but the area right before the stairs is sketchy, and the hillside is somewhat unstable with dirt and roc...
Below the stairway; lots of trees down (see below). Above the stairway; perfect trail, gentle slope big views at several spots. Quiet.The blowdowns; about 5 or 6 we had to duck under and at time drop...
Hiked Palisades trail today. I think my third time in several years. Good views at the top and some flowers starting to bloom, likely more in a couple weeks. Generally, the trail is its normal easy-...
First time hiking this trail for me and wow it gave so much more than it took!!! Had it all to ourselves today! There is still major fallen trees/rock slide just before the staircase. If you're health...
As others have mentioned, there is a decent blowdown section right before the staircase. With some careful maneuvering, it’s passable. I hiked up about 5 miles and then turned around. The trail has so...
After completing Mailbox Peak in about 5 hours and Mt. Si in about 4 hours, I thought most trails would feel manageable—but this one turned out to be the toughest hike I’ve done so far this year.It’s ...
I attempted to hike the Palisades trail on a sunny day, but ended up aborting just before getting to the staircase. There are multiple trees down and a lot of debris to wade through. Snow made it more...
There are several trees to go over or under the most difficult one is nearly to the third overlook, it’s high enough off the ground you need to sit on it and it and the snow is slick. See photo. The w...
Arrived at 11:20 and were the only car in the lot. Trail is snow free for the first mile, then a dusting starts prior to the stairs. Because I have a fear of falling, I opted for poles and spikes for ...
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