Palisades
Mount Rainier Area
As of May 6, 2026, the Palisades Trail is heavily impacted by blowdowns, particularly a significant obstacle just before the staircase. Reports from April 28 and May 1 describe this section as requiring careful scrambling, with one report noting it was difficult to navigate even for taller hikers. Earlier reports in March and April indicated deeper snow and more challenging conditions, with some hikers turning back due to extensive tree fall and snow. While flowers are starting to bloom (May 1), the primary concern remains the numerous downed trees throughout the trail, making passage difficult, especially in steep sections. Road status and parking are not detailed in the provided reports.
generated from 33 reports
Conditions at a Glance
Trail
Trail in good condition
1 of 1
Snow
Intermittent snow - not hard to cross
1 of 1
Road
Road suitable for all vehicles
1 of 1
Bugs
No bugs
1 of 1
Sources
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 ...
Arrived at the TH ~10:30. There were a handful of cars in the lot when we started and a few more by the time we made it back down ~1:30, more than enough room for winter traffic.The trail was dusted i...
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