The Olympic National Park is far to beautiful to stay away during the winter months. Its important to learn the skills needed, in order to have a successful and positive adventure. Use common sense to avoid hazardous conditions or a place that might put you at risk.
I've always found weather patterns fascinating. Wanted to be a meteorologist when I was a kid. Let me share with you some online resources that I used in trip planning and preparation aid. This time of year can be very unpredictable around the Olympic Peninsula. Technology is not always our friend this day and age, but it helps you be more prepared; then I'm all for it.
Tips: Cotton kills, fleece and wool are king. Leave your down jacket at home.
These are online tools I use before planning a backpacking trip into the Olympic National Park. I hope you enjoyed them and hope they work out as your future planning resources.
Updated by Barefoot Jake in February 2016
I've always found weather patterns fascinating. Wanted to be a meteorologist when I was a kid. Let me share with you some online resources that I used in trip planning and preparation aid. This time of year can be very unpredictable around the Olympic Peninsula. Technology is not always our friend this day and age, but it helps you be more prepared; then I'm all for it.
Tips: Cotton kills, fleece and wool are king. Leave your down jacket at home.
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| Hiking group descends back into the clouds |
Pre-Trip Planning
- Olympic Mountain Overnight Hiking Guide - for hiking trip research.
- Forecast - be sure to check the snow level and also read any Weather Advisories.
- Tides (coast)
- Marine Forecast (coast) - keep in mind, if the wind is up, there may be high sea levels. Refer to your coastal topographical maps.
- USGS Map Database - hikers can figure out how to download maps for free.
- Climbers Guide - for planning any off trail adventures.
Current Conditions Online
- UW Northwest Radar Loop - track storm cells
- Olympic Mountain Weather Station - if heading into the mountains.
- Avalanche - if walking in the snow.
- Hurricane Ridge Webcam
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| Even tho the temperature was above freezing, the windchill was not; causing this plant to hold ice. |
These are online tools I use before planning a backpacking trip into the Olympic National Park. I hope you enjoyed them and hope they work out as your future planning resources.
Updated by Barefoot Jake in February 2016