Basic Snowshoe - Mazama Ridge (Mount Rainier)

Longmire parking lot, adjacent to the National Park Inn: https://goo.gl/maps/FkW4wupxk3x1sofYA

Friday, March 15th at 8:30am.

We'll meet at the Longmire parking lot at 8:30am for introductions and a discussion of weather/avy conditions as well as the day's route.  When the Longmire gate opens (at approximately 9am), we'll drive from Longmire to the Narada Falls parking lot and get our extended weekend started.

Day 1: (2.6 miles, 1200' gain) We'll trek up the Narada Falls trail and then follow the High Lakes trail to Mazama Ridge.  We'll set up our basecamp and then explore the Mazama Ridge area as time/conditions allow.

Day 2: (3.2 miles, 700' gain) We'll have an entire day to explore the area, following the general path of the Paradise Glacier trail as it makes its way north towards Cowlitz Rocks.  We'll then return to our basecamp for our second night on the mountain. (We'll have light packs on our day 2 excursion, since we won't be carrying tents or sleep systems.)

Day 3: (3.6 miles, 300' gain) We'll pack up and trek south to see the view from Faraway Rock.  We'll then make our way west, to the intersection with the trail going down to Reflection Lakes.  We'll drop our packs and pop down to Reflection Lakes for snacks/lunch.  After taking in the view at Reflection Lakes we'll head back, grab our packs, and trek back to the Narada Falls parking lot.

Route: https://caltopo.com/m/RUJLL

Weather Forecasts:

• mountain-forecast.com
• NWS

NWAC Forecast: https://nwac.us/avalanche-forecast/#/west-slopes-south

We'll trek at a moderate pace with brief stops for snacks/views. Participants must have an excellentfitness base, as we will be carrying heavy packs and trekking on snow.  Participants must also have prior winter camping experience.

As this is a winter overnight, participants must be prepared for varied weather conditions and must bring winter-capable shelter and sleep system, cooking / water treatment systems, and clothing.

Total elevation gain of approx 2200ft, total trip length of approx 10 miles.

Chains must be carried in all cars (even AWD/4WD). Those driving front or rear wheel drive vehicles may be required to install chains.

Park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass is required.

Participants will be asked to reimburse trip leader for backcountry permit cost.