Hiker Headlines: Snow in the Mountains, Photo Contest, Winter Camping, Hunting Season

It’s October 15. Snow is falling, temperatures are dropping and the days are getting shorter — the late fall hiking season is here. Submit your photos to our annual photo contest. Sno-Park permits will go on sale November 1 and Washington State Parks just released the list of campgrounds that will remain open through the winter. Fall is also peak hunting season. Here’s some news you might have missed while out on trail this week.

Lake Valhalla. Winter conditions are starting to take hold in the mountains. Photo by thebrink. 

It’s snowing: It’s snowing in the mountains, and it’s time to re-orient to hiking in this new season when days are shorter, temperatures are colder and high country trails are completely covered in snow. Read up on late fall safety tips and be sure to write a trip report when you return from your hike. And, if you can’t wait to strap on those snowshoes and go exploring the many Sno-Parks in Washington, permits go on sale November 1.

Northwest Exposure ends soon: It’s not too late to submit your photos to WTA’s annual Northwest Exposure Photo Contest. The last day to send us your photos is October 18. Submit your best shots and you could win prizes and have your photo featured in our calendar or on our website.

Plan for winter camping: State Parks offer great car camping options all year round, but during the winter some campgrounds close down for good, while others have limited services. State Parks released their winter schedule, which details the services that will be available at each park. Make your reservations now and start planning your winter camping excursions.

Hunting season safety: Fall is peak hunting season and hikers and hunters are both out and about on public lands. The general season for hunting deer opens on October 17, but many other types of permits open at various times throughout the fall and winter. Refresh yourself on the safety tips, such as wearing orange or pink, and check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s hunting schedule and map to plan your hike.

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.