Staircase Rapids — Thursday, Jan. 13, 2005

Olympic Peninsula > Hood Canal

I did not actually go anywhere, but I did talk to 2 rangers today so I thought I'd pass along information for those of you wanting a low-level snow free hike. You're not going to find it here! Apparently there are over 6 inches of snow at the T in the road after you leave Hoodsport, where you turn left to get to the dirt road leading to Staircase, and the road is closed. It is very icy, I was told. The ranger said we were free to park our car and walk in, but there was another report from yesterday of the same 6 inches at the campground and because it's been so cold and there has been no new snow, it is all compact, and very slick. I bet it's still beautiful though! We are opting not to go, but my itch to get in the woods is so great we may end up there soon, probably by next weekend.