The vertical propagation of mountain waves into the stratosphere is investigated, with reference to the Scorer parameter profile in the troposphere, and the change in Brunt-V¿is¿l¿ frequency at the tropopause. VHF radar provides data on the vertical and horizontal wind velocities, and echo power, while radiosondes supply temperature profiles. In studies of four large-amplitude mountain-wave events, where the wave phase remains nearly constant throughout the troposphere, partial reflection at a sharp tropopause offers a better explanation than wave trapping below a minimum in the Scorer parameter.¿ 1997 American Geophysical Union