Navigate Spring Hazards Safely
As the snowpack melts, trails become deceptive. High-elevation routes remain snow-covered well into summer, turning "easy" hikes into high-risk treks.
Trail Conditions:
Comet Falls: Hazardous ice/snow slopes. Fatalities have occurred in the past here. Avoid until completely melted out (late spring/early summer).
Narada Falls to Reflection Lakes: Dangerous snow bridges, steep icy slopes, and exposed terrain.
Narada Falls to Paradise: Requires skis or snowshoes. Watch for post-holing, snow bridges, and thinning snow.
Wonderland Trail to Carter Falls: The footlog is washed out. There is currently no safe crossing.
Plan Ahead and Prepare:
Know When to Turn Back: If you encounter steep, icy slopes, turn around. Carry an ice axe if you are trained to use it.
Identify Hidden Dangers: Listen for rushing water under the snow; assume any snow bridge over a creek is unstable. Stay off overhanging snow ledges and keep a safe distance from "tree wells" (hollows around trunks/rocks).
Gear Up: Carry a reliable physical map and compass—GPS isn't always enough when the trail is buried.
Stay Alert: Avalanches happen in spring, too. Avoid slippery rocks near streams and waterfalls.
Be self-reliant. Always check in at a wilderness information center or visitor center for the latest conditions before heading out.
Your safety is your responsibility.
Visit our website for Spring Hiking Safety Tips at the link in our bio.
NPS/Rowan Ball photo Narada Falls Trail #MountRainier #springsnow #hike
