The Paradise area of Mount Rainier usually opens up an area for sledding sometime around Christmas. This year, with the low snow levels, the area won’t open at all, the park superintendent decided this week.
There’s not enough snow to allow the use of grooming equipment and protect the meadows underneath.
There is enough snow for other activities, such as snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding.
Other updates on the park:
Wilderness/Winter Camping
Some winter snow camping areas are not available due to low snowpack. A 2-foot snow depth is required for camping outside of the Paradise area. Permits are required for all overnight stays. Permits are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at the Longmire Information Center, 360-569-6575.
Road Hours Extended
Beginning this weekend, the park will extend hours for the road between Longmire and Paradise. The planned schedule (below) will begin Saturday and continue until the evening gate closures end, typically in mid-April. All opening times are conditional on weather and conditions. All vehicles must carry tire changes. Visitors are encouraged to check Twitter for up-to-date road conditions and restrictions.
- Saturdays and Sundays: Longmire gate will open at 8 a.m. and close to all traffic at 9 p.m.
- Mondays to Fridays: The Longmire gate will open at 9 a.m. and close to all traffic at 6 p.m.
Guided Snowshoe Walks
Ranger-led snowshoe walks at Paradise will continue on Saturdays and Sundays through March 29. Public walks are offered at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. beginning at the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center. Visitors can sign up for the walks one hour prior to the beginning time. Snowshoes are provided; participants are asked for a $5 donation to help provide the walks and for repair costs. The park also offers walks to school groups by reservation only. Call 360-569-6592 for school group walk information and reservations.
Jackson Visitor Center Hours
Operating hours at the Jackson Visitor Center will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. The Paradise Camp Deli and Gift Shop will be open from 11 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
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