Spent a short weekend at an Ashford cabin aimed at doing a bunch of easy walks/snowshoes..
Paradise ( sunday ):
- After breaking the mother-in-law on the carpark ice, did the usual uphill to the base of pano point, but this time in snowshoes
- Snow varied from firm to deep depending on wind deposit direction.
- Small triggered slides on SW aspect ~6000 with 5" soft on medium crust
- Sad the road is only open sat/sun this year, as there is certainly the demand, with the upper lot probably 80% full
- Chains required to be at least carried by all ( can rent in Ashford ), and when we visited the conditions required them to be worn for 2WDs.
- They are serious about locking the gate at the designated time, so don't play it too close at the end of the day. Ranger guy told us that if you get locked out, go to the front desk at the Inn and they will call a ( likely grumpy ) ranger to leave their dinner.
Minor walks:
- Longmire meadows: Just did the small loop from the lodge, and hadn't realized there were so many springs. Trail 50% snow, but was a bit icy at times, so recommend carrying light traction even if you don't use it. Hot chocolate at the Inn was worth it, especially drinking on the veranda rocking chairs ( how decadent )
- Twin firs loop: Small little 0.4mi up/down loop, with forest and creek being the main attraction, 98% snow free
- Kautz Creek: Wandered up for some way past the viewpoint on easy trail, main attraction being pretty bench forests and the view upward at Rainier. 95% snow free, but the initial boardwalk was pretty slick, not sure why they don't use a layer of chicken wire ( or equivalent ) like other places in the world
- Pastries and "hot tub" were terrific at the Ukrainian place ( Paradise Village ) in Ashford
When we were there the weather up top was grey, but we did get glimpses of the mountain with a glorious dusting of fresh snow, so will definitely try another winter time visit
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