Basic Snowshoe Field Trip - Paradise Area (winter)

Mountaineers Olympia Branch – Basic Snowshoe Skills Field Trip Report

The primary focus of the trip was building foundational snowshoeing skills. Participants practiced efficient travel techniques, pacing, use of poles, layering strategies, and terrain awareness while moving as a group. The moderate elevation gain allowed ample time to discuss decision-making, group management, and safe winter travel without feeling rushed.

A highlight of the day was learning about avalanche awareness and data collection for recreational avalanche reports in the Cascades. Two University of Washington PhD candidates joined us and shared their expertise, walking the group through how Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC) compared to recreational users can observe, gather, and submit valuable field data. Topics included identifying snowpack layers, recent weather impacts, signs of instability, and the importance of contributing observations to support regional avalanche forecasting.

The combination of hands-on snowshoe skills and exposure to real-world avalanche science made this trip especially meaningful. Participants left with increased confidence in winter travel and a deeper understanding of how individual observations contribute to the broader safety of the mountain community.

My group (Double Shot Espresso) completed a loop 3 miles with 900' elevation gain around Alta Vista through the Edith Creek Basin with our remaining time. We were able to put new skills into practice and make observations of snow formations of a cornice, pinwheels and rollerballs in the terrain. We also discussed water crossings and snow bridges in the field.

Overall, the trip met its learning objectives and fostered strong engagement, curiosity, and camaraderie among the group—an excellent example of the Mountaineers’ commitment to education, stewardship, and safe outdoor recreation.