Mt. Rainier National Park
March 2 – 5, Sun-Wed
Intermediate – Advanced Backcountry Ski
On this trip we will ski at Paradise, Reflection Lakes, Mt. Tahoma Trails areas, and maybe White Pass Nordic Center. We will choose locations and routes depending on weather and snow conditions and interest of the group. These areas offer a wide range of conditions from backcountry to groomed trails. You need backcountry skis and sturdy boots for Mt. Rainer areas and skis with metal edges for most of the Mt. Tahoma Trails system. Backcountry skills are advised for Mt. Rainier National Park. We will carpool and share driving costs. A National Parks Pass and Washington Sno-park Pass will be needed for each car. Drive time is about 3 hours one way. Chain or traction devices are required for access to upper parking in Mt. Rainier National Park.
We will be staying at the Dancing Bear Lodge in Ashford, WA. It is a nicely laid-out and furnished lodge with a pool table and hot tub. Dinners will be shared, famous ONC-PDX potluck style. Breakfasts and lunches are each skier’s responsibility.
You can drive up early on Sunday and ski ½ day before going to the lodge, or arrive later to ski Monday through Wednesday. On Wednesday the plan is to ski at Mt. Rainier then drive home. Another possibility is to drive to White Pass on Wednesday to ski before driving home.
Logistics and meal arrangements will be discussed as the date approaches.
Trip limit: 8 participants, including the trip leaders
Cost: $235 per person. Includes 3 nights lodging. Excludes cost of travel, passes and meals.
Travel miles: 270 miles round trip from Portland plus excursions to trailheads.
Trip Leader: John Saunders, johnosaunders@me.com
Co-leader: Martin Pike, pike1765@comcast.net