Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
A small but meaningful stop on the Skyline Trail, the Stevens–Van Trump Historical Monument is a rock bench with inscriptions commemorating the 1870 first documented ascent of Mount Rainier by Hazard Stevens and Philemon Beecher Van Trump. It’s a reflective waypoint that ties your hike directly to the park’s mountaineering history.
Where It Is
You’ll find the bench on the East Skyline Trail at its junction with the Paradise Glacier Trail, roughly 1.7 miles from Paradise if you hike the Skyline Loop counter-clockwise. It sits just above Sluiskin Falls in the high meadows, and the junction is well established.
What You’ll See
Expect wide-open views toward Rainier and the surrounding subalpine meadows. The stone bench itself carries multiple inscriptions referencing the 1870 ascent, the site’s identification in 1915, and its 1924 erection by regional mountaineering clubs. In summer, hikers commonly spot marmots, deer, and a variety of birds along Skyline; chipmunks are frequent company right at the bench.
Why It’s Worth a Stop
This isn’t a grand monument; it’s a thoughtfully placed seat in the landscape that lets you imagine the route those first climbers took. As a built-in rest spot on the Skyline Loop, it’s an easy add that delivers both context and views.
Seasonality
Paradise is open year-round, but the monument is often under snow in winter, and the bench can be completely hidden. Plan on late summer or early fall for snow-free footing and the best chance to read the inscriptions.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer and early fall are ideal; winter snow can obscure the monument.
- Early morning tends to be quieter, while midday is busier on this popular loop.
- Parking at Paradise can be competitive, so earlier starts pay off.
Practical Notes
There are no facilities at the monument—no bathrooms, water, or trash cans. Treat it as a mid-hike stop: carry water, snacks, and pack out everything.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for marmots sunning on rocks, deer working the meadows, and lively birds along the trail in summer. Chipmunks near the bench are bold; enjoy them without feeding.
Pros
- Historic stone bench marking the first documented ascent of Rainier
- Panoramic viewpoint at the Skyline–Paradise Glacier Trail junction
Cons
- Often buried by snow in winter
- No facilities; nearest restrooms and parking are at Paradise
Tips
- Hike the Skyline Loop counter-clockwise; it’s about 1.74 miles from Paradise.
- Visit in late summer or early fall when the bench isn’t buried by snow.
- Paradise parking fills fast—arrive early to avoid delays.
- Bring water and snacks; there are no facilities at the monument.
- Take a minute to read all sides of the inscribed bench.
