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Stevens Canyon Road
Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park.
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Stevens Canyon Road
Stevens Canyon Road is one of the most scenic drives in Mount Rainier National Park, connecting the Paradise area on the west side of the park with the Ohanapecosh area and the Stevens Canyon Entrance on the southeast side. This beautiful mountain road is approximately 19 miles long and gives vacationers a wonderful way to experience several different landscapes in one unforgettable drive.
As Stevens Canyon Road winds through the park, it passes through forests, open viewpoints, deep canyons, lakes, trailheads, and high mountain scenery. One of the most popular stops along the way is Reflection Lakes, where Mount Rainier is often mirrored in the calm water on clear days. This is one of the classic photo locations in the park and is especially beautiful in the early morning or evening.
Farther along the road, you’ll find access to the Bench and Snow Lakes Trail, Louise Lake, and several pullouts that provide outstanding views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks. Box Canyon is another major attraction along Stevens Canyon Road, where the Muddy Fork of the Cowlitz River has carved a narrow, dramatic canyon through the rock. A short walk from the parking area gives visitors a close look at this impressive natural feature.
Stevens Canyon Road is also an important connection between Paradise and Ohanapecosh, making it a great route for vacationers who want to see more of Mount Rainier National Park without backtracking. Because of heavy snowfall, this road is typically open only during the summer and early fall, depending on weather and road conditions.
We really enjoy Stevens Canyon Road because it offers such a nice variety of scenery, easy pullouts, and access to several memorable places in Mount Rainier National Park.
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Stevens Canyon Road provides stunning views of Mount Rainier.
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One of the many stunning views of Mount Rainier along the Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park.
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Stevens Canyon Entrance in Mount Rainier National Park.
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Where is the Stevens Canyon Entrance?
The Stevens Canyon Entrance is located in the southeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park, along State Route 123. From Packwood, Washington, drive east on U.S. Highway 12, then turn north onto State Route 123 and follow it approximately 13 miles to the park entrance. The entrance is also about 2.4 miles north of Ohanapecosh, making it a convenient access point for the Ohanapecosh area, Grove of the Patriarchs (closed), Box Canyon, Reflection Lakes, and the road to Paradise. This entrance is typically open during the summer and early fall, depending on snow and road conditions. It is closed during the winter months.
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Another view of Mount Rainier along the Stevens Canyon Road.
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Reflection Lake
Reflection Lake is one of the top attractions along the Stevens Canyon Road. From the Stevens Canyon Entrance of Mount Rainier National Park, drive west on Stevens Canyon Road toward Paradise. Continue west for about 19 miles, following signs toward Paradise. Reflection Lake is located along Stevens Canyon Road, about 3 miles before reaching Paradise. Parking areas are located along the road near the lake, making this an easy stop during the summer season.
Reflection Lake rests next to the Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park.
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