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As the snowy season has officially kicked off, Olympic National Park and the Northwest Avalanche Center have joined forces to provide a free event to the public for avalanche awareness. This event is a great way to brush up on some tips, ask avalanche related questions and get to know the park a bit better in the winter. If you plan on exploring Olympic’s snowy areas this winter, you don’t want to miss this!
For those who haven’t yet experienced the snowy ridges of Olympic in the cold season, you are missing out on a true winter wonderland. Miles of trails to snowshoe and cross country ski await, as well as a ski and snowboard area at Hurricane Ridge. Full of pristine powder and stunning views, exploring Olympic’s Hurricane Ridge region in the winter is the can’t miss outdoor destination in the Pacific Northwest.
The following is a press release from Olympic National Park:
Avalanche Awareness Class is scheduled for Thursday, December 13 from 6:30-7:30 pm at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles. Matt Schonwald, Professional Observer at the Northwest Avalanche Center, will present important information on avalanche safety and winter recreation. This program is free of charge and open to the public. The Olympic National Park Visitor Center is located at 3002 Mount Angeles Road.
“Avalanche awareness is critically important for winter recreation at Hurricane Ridge. I encourage all snowboarders, skiers and snowshoers to participate in this free workshop.” – Olympic National Park Acting Superintendent Lee Taylor
With the Olympics’ steep terrain and heavy snow all snowboarders, skiers and snowshoers at Hurricane Ridge should be aware that they are traveling through potentially hazardous avalanche terrain. The workshop will focus on how to prepare for traveling in avalanche terrain, including proper equipment and the skills needed for self-rescue.
For more information about visiting Olympic National Park in winter visit the park website at www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-in-winter.htm.
For more year round adventures and my favorite trails around Olympic National Park and Forest, pick up a copy of my 52 Hikes Guidebook! or enjoy these seven awesome winter activities around Olympic National Park.
