Mt. Rainier National Park, Ashford, WA
Mar. 13-16, 2026, Fri – Mon
Intermediate and Advanced – Ungroomed & Groomed Backcountry Nordic
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 the 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. Rainier 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. Chains or traction devices are required for access to upper parking in Mt. Rainier National Park. This year we have adjusted the arrival and departure dates to align with the expected road opening dates in the park.
We will be staying at the same lodge as previous years 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 Friday and ski ½ day before going to the lodge, or arrive later to ski Saturday through Monday. On Monday the plan is to ski at Mt. Rainier and then drive home. Another possibility is to drive to White Pass on Monday to ski before driving home.
Logistics and meal arrangements will be discussed as the date approaches.
Trip limit: 9 participants
Cost: $375 per person
Travel miles: From Portland, 270 miles round trip, plus mileage to the ski areas
Trip Leader: John Saunders, johnosaunders@me.com,
Co-Leader: Martin Pike, pike1765@comcast.net