>Trail Research - Our recommendation is to check out Washington Trail Association and All Trails. Make sure to read over the following.

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- Trail Description will tell you the type of terrain, elevation, and mileage you will have to cover. Keep an eye out for info on river/creek crossing as they might be harder to navigate in rainy season. 

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- Trail location tells you where the trail starts. Always check as Google/Apple maps regularly put people on the wrong trail.

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- Driving conditions is important to check. Many of our trails are deep in the National Forest Roads, and some are impossible to drive through with a low

clearance car. On a rainy or snowy day, you might run into road closures or horrible driving conditions. 

 

- Recent Trip Reports just might be the most helpful thing in your research. Fellow adventures will tell you the most recent conditions, and their report can be life saving. 

>Weather Research - Weather.com is a good resource for your general inquiry. Mountain weather forecast is a good resource for in depth report on the specific mountain you will be on. 

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>In the winter months, we recommend checking out the the Northwest Avalanche Center (nwac.us) for any information on avalanche concerns. Avalanche kills more people in Washington then any other natural disasters. Our recommendation is that you avoid any and all trails with the slightest of avalanche concerns, unless you are AIARE certified. Some of the more low risk adventure options are Gold creek pond, Franklin Falls, Nordic Center at Summit, Mt Raininer at Paradise, and Kendall Peak Lakes.

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>Any reports of lightening, floods or thunderstorms are obviously bad news. Don't travel. 

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>If the weather turns on you during your adventure, turn around. Mountains will always be there.

>Outer layer (outer shell)

In wet conditions, we can't imagine a piece of gear that is more important. This is your "rain proof" jacket/pants. Check out this article by REI for detailed info, but the cost can vary significantly depending on the material and manufacturer. We recognize the difficulty of buying expensive rain gear as a college student. We recommend checking out second hand stores or REI garage sales for discounted gear. Another option is to buy a set of cheap ponchos. 

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>Middle Layer (insulation)

This layer goes under your shell. Though down jackets are the best in terms of weight to warmth ratio, they tend to perform poorly in wet conditions and can be very expensive. Go with jackets/sweaters with synthetic insulation (polyester fiber or synthetic down)as they tend to perform better under wet conditions. Cotton should be avoided at all cost as they hold moisture and will quickly tank your body temperature.

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>Base Layer (skin layer)

This layer is what goes on your skin. The primary function of this layer is to wick moisture from your body. Synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon blends are great for wicking moisture, but wool is the best in terms of function and environmental impact (admittedly, wool is really pricey). Again, no cotton.

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*Final note - Depending on the level of precipitation and how much you sweat, it could get very difficult to keep your clothes dry. We recommend bringing extra layers to switch out the most wet layer. Put your extra set of layers in a plastic bag or water proof stuff sack to keep them dry in your pack.  

>Hiking boots

In Washington, we highly recommend Gortex waterproof shoes (not water resistant). Though the breath-ability is not as strong with the 100% waterproof shoes, they will keep your feet dry from rain, streams, mud, and puddles. If you already have a non-water proof trail shoes, consider buying waterproof socks. They are not perfect, but they work surprisingly well. Good tip, always bring extra socks and shoes for the car ride home. 

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>Microspikes

We recommend carrying a set of microspikes from late Fall - early Summer. Many of the best peaks hold snow well into the summer. Microspikes are easy to pack, cheap to rent from ORP, and you will be thankful when you come across icy/snowy trails particularly in Winter months.

 

>Snowshoes

Consider them to be a flotation device. They will help you to navigate thick snow, so that you don't sink in. Again, be wise about when and where you go snowshoeing. Make sure to do your research!    

> Dry storage - As mentioned above, it is important to keep all your essentials dry. Whether its your sleeping bag, map, or electronics, if you want them dry, put them in a dry sack or garbage bag.  

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> Food - You want extra calories on a rainy/snow adventures. If you get cold, simple carbs and sugar can raise your internal temperature, and you want to replenish your body with calories as you expend energy hiking through snow or rain.  

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> Trekking poles - You will be hiking in slippery conditions. Trekking poles can help to ease the pain on your knees and can keep you upright. 

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> Easy comforts - Whether it's hand warmers, warm drink in a thermo bottle, or your favorite trail food, bring something to boost your morale.

 

>Attitude - Adventuring in the rain/snow in WA can be special. The forest smells fresh, views are tranquil, the sound can be therapeutic, and you will see a different side of wildlife. Embrace the outdoors and have a great attitude.