var gMenuControlID=0; var menus_included = 0; var jsPageAuthorMode = 0; var jsSessionPreviewON = 1; var jsDlgLoader = '/olym/planyourvisit/loader.cfm'; var jsSiteID = 1; var jsSubSiteID = 344; var kurrentPageID = 30750; document.CS_StaticURL = "http://www.nps.gov/"; document.CS_DynamicURL = "http://www.nps.gov/"; Search this park Search nps.gov var isStandard = 0; var hasChildren = 0; Skip Navigation PARK HOME PLAN YOUR VISIT FOR TEACHERS ... Contact Us view map text size: printer friendly Olympic National Park
Wilderness Travel in Winter If you're planning to visit the Olympic Wilderness during the fall, winter or spring, be prepared for inclement weather . You may encounter heavy rains, snow, high winds, mud, swollen creeks and rivers as well as deep puddles. Always check the latest forecasts before you head out. Also keep in mind that forecasts can be wrong. Be your own forecaster by watching the weather closely! Always carry the 10 Essentials map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and raingear with warm clothes Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike . Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return. High Country Preparation
Snow prevails in the high country much of the year, making avalanche hazard a concern. Most trails are hidden by snow this time of year so map-and-compass navigation skills, general route finding and common sense are essential. Some high country trails may be covered by 10 to 30 feet of snow. Clothing and equipment should be investigated and tested before the trip. Prepare for rain and snow: snow regularly changes into rain and rain into snow. Snowshoes or skies may be necessary for mountain travel until June when snow firms up. Whiteouts are frequent and cold wet snow is typical. Snow travel in spring and early summer is best done before noon. Afternoon temperatures create "post-holing" conditions and higher avalanche danger to hikers. | |
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