Change Your Plans? Heavy Rain, Winds Expected in Southwest
Hiking on a rainy day can be a delight. But with the National Weather Service calling for heavy rain and high winds in areas of Southwest Washington, including the coast, hikers should probably take their autumn hiking elsewhere this weekend.
Hiking on a rainy day can be a delight, especially in fall when mushrooms and fall foliage more than make up for views hidden behind clouds. But with the National Weather Service calling for heavy rain (up to 10 inches in the mountains) and high winds in areas of Southwest Washington, including the coast, hikers should probably take their autumn hiking elsewhere this weekend.
Be sensitive to storm dangers, and consider a change of plan
When heavy rainfall is called for, steep drainages, steep hillsides, some shorelines and snowfields are more hazardous areas to hike. Rain can loosen hillsides and flood streams and creeks, even in autumn, when water levels are typically lower.
During high winds, the danger of trees coming down also increases, especially in areas thick with dead trees from wildfire. These areas are best to avoid during any windstorm.
One of the most important safety tips for hikers is to stay flexible. Be willing to change your plans when bad conditions are called for, and don't be afraid to turn around. Just make sure you keep someone informed about your plan changes and backup itineraries.
>> Get more fall hiking safety tips.
>> Watch your footing in wet weather.
Some National Public Lands Day events rescheduled
Due to the incoming storms, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest has cancelled their National Public Lands Day events.
WTA has also cancelled our Saturday workparty at the soon-to-open Ape Cave Viewpoint Trail.
You can sign up to help out on the rescheduled dates below. Please come lend a hand if you can! The final push to complete the trail will the the weekend of Oct. 19/20 with an optional Saturday potluck/campout at Marble Mountain Sno-Park and a ribbon cutting on Sunday!
Join us on upcoming Ape Cave Viewpoint work parties:
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