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Main | Who's in charge? | Backcountry travel | Leave no trace
Maps to use | Wild animal encounters | 100 highest peaks in WA
Backcountry access by public transportation
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The Mountaineers recommend that you have all of the Ten Essentials with you on every trip.
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1. Navigation (map and compass)
2. Sun protection
3. Insulation (extra clothing)
4. Illumination (flashlight/headlamp)
5. First-aid supplies
6. Fire
7. Repair kit and tools
8. Nutrition (extra food)
9. Hydration (extra water)
10. Emergency shelter
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The Pacific Northwest is gifted with a variety and abundance of natural wonders - we have mountains, rivers, trees and ocean available in which to recreate and immerse ourselves. Unfortunately, it's not always as simple as we might wish to get out there and enjoy these natural wonders. The information you'll find below is meant to make your backcountry travel in this region a little easier. We've compiled information on permits, animals, transportation, ethics and more. Whether you're new to the Northwest or have been living here for years, there's something useful on this page for everyone.
Be sure to check out our Hiking Basics brochure. It contains all the essential information (including the Ten Essentials) that you'll need to hit the trail.
Download the brochure (PDF, 200kb).
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Northwest Forest Pass
Expect to need a Northwest Forest Pass where there are facilities, trails, or services that the Forest Service provides to enhance your experience. It is good at participating trailheads, picnic areas, boat launches, rustic campsites, visitor centers, and interpretive sites in the national forests of Oregon and Washington, and in the North Cascades National Park Complex. It is not necessary in areas that are subject to entrance fees, like Mt Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park. For complete information on where the pass is required, go to the Forest Service website listed on the "Who's in charge?" page.
The pass is not available at the trailhead, so plan on getting one ahead of time. The cost is $5 for a day pass and $30 for an annual pass. They are available at ranger stations, visitor centers, REI stores and, of course, The Mountaineers Bookstore.
The Northwest Forest Pass is a fee demonstration program which is part of the current User Fee structure, for which more information can be found on our Recreation Resources page.
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