Officials Urge Caution For Travelers Heading Into Cascades

WASHINGTON — If you're looking to go skiing or snowboarding in Washington, the Forest Service is asking: do some research first.

“Know before you go. Check to ensure your snow play activity is permitted at your destination,” said Brian McNeil, US Forest Service recreation program manager. “For example, sledding is not allowed at most ski areas.”

The US Forest Service says that National Forests, National Parks, and ski resorts across Washington have been swamped with visitors this year, and that's causing some concern. One problem is pandemic-related — COVID-19 restrictions mean that ski resorts cannot handle the same number of visitors they could in a normal year.

“We have hit a critical mass of over-visitation at Snoqualmie Pass.” Said Guy Lawrence, general manager for the Summit at Snoqualmie. “More people than ever are coming to Snoqualmie Pass; ironically, more people than ever are also being turned away.”

Another problem: overcrowded resorts can run out of parking space, causing visitors to park outside the lot. That can go on to cause a lot of problems, says the Forest Service.

Related: Washington Lowland Snow Outlook

“We’re seeing more parked vehicles and people walking along highway and ramp shoulders – which is a tragedy waiting to happen. These areas are not designed for parking or pedestrians,” said Keith Metcalf, WSDOT deputy secretary. “In addition, the illegally parked vehicles are also hindering our crews’ ability to clear and treat roads and force more road or pass closures, which affects everyone trying to use the roadways.”

If you are heading up into the mountains this winter, the Forest Service asks that you follow this safety advice before you hit the road:

• Consider going during the work week. Weekends are when most visitors go to ski resorts or mountain trails, so going during the week instead can help avoid overcrowding.
• Do some research beforehand. Each ski resort has its own set of rules and restrictions.
• Have a back up plan, and if the ski resort is full, leave. If the resort's parking lot is full, the resort can't accept any more visitors. To avoid driving all that way for nothing, the Forest Service says to consider having a back up plan or two.
• Don't park illegally. Parking along highways, at turnouts or otherwise outside designated parking areas is forbidden for a reason. Emergency vehicles and snowplows need that space to get by.
• Make sure your car is prepared for winter roads. Have a set of chains on hand and practice putting them on and taking them off your car at home, before you really need them. Also make sure you have a full tank of gas, and pack extra warm clothes, food and water in case you get stuck.
• Know where you're going. Cell service in the mountains can be spotty, so you'll need to be able to navigate without GPS. Also be aware that some roads in the mountains are closed in the winter.
• Follow COVID-19 regulations like wearing a mask and practicing safe social distancing.

More mountain safety tips can be found at recreateresponsibly.org.

If that seems like a lot to keep in mind, there is one easy alternative: choose to do something else.

“One easy way to do that right now is choose a snow-free adventure close-to home. We are so lucky in Washington to have some many wonderful places to explore year-round,” said Kindra Ramos, communications director for Washington Trails Association.