Hiker Headlines: Avalanche Forecasts, Washouts, New Trailhead, Thankful for Trails

It’s November 18. Avalanche forecasting has started for the winter season. Two areas of Mount Rainier National Park are closed due to recent storm damage. A new trailhead in Spokane Valley will open this weekend. Entry fees will be waived for state lands on November 26. #GivingTuesday is coming up. And, WTA is taking thanksgiving week off. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

Checking an avalanche forecast is a must before heading out into the snow. Photo by Minkin. 

Avalanche Forecasting: The Northwest Avalanche Center has started avalanche forecasting for the winter season. Checking up-to-date avalanche conditions is a must when heading out into the snow.

Winter damage at Mount Rainier: Recent storms have caused two notable closures at Mount Rainier National Park. The Fairfax Forest Road completely washed out just before the Carbon River entrance, prompting park officials to close all access to the Carbon River area including to hikers. The Grove of the Patriarchs trail is also closed until further notice because of damage to the suspension bridge. Please respect these closures.

New trailhead in Spokane Valley: Hikers can now access the Antoine Peak Conservation Area via a new trailhead on the edge of the city of Spokane Valley. The Trentwood Trailhead will open this Saturday, providing convenient access to the new Arrow Leaf Trail that was constructed in part by WTA volunteers.

Free entry the day after Thanksgiving: Entry to state recreation lands will be free on November 26. Entrance fees will be waived at State Parks, Department of Natural Resource lands and Department of Fish and Wildlife lands.

Gear up for #GivingTuesday: Be sure to mark your calendar and support WTA on November 30 for #GivingTuesday.

Out of office: WTA will be closed for the week of Thanksgiving. We are all taking a moment to spend time outdoors and with loved ones so that we can continue to bring our best selves to helping hikers enjoy and give back to the places we love. Have a wonderful week, and we look forward to sharing the latest news with you when we get back.

BE IN THE KNOW

• Keep up to date with Trail News, our monthly email newsletter.
• Check our Hiking Guide for information on what trails are open.
• Check trip reports for latest conditions on trails. And if you go for a hike, file your own trip report.
• Sign up for Families Go Hiking, our email newsletter for families with plenty of tips on keeping kids busy.
• Sign up for Trail Action Network to stay up to date on issues impacting trails and ways to get involved.