I was wondering how it looks like after the fires destroyed practically the whole region.

I was interested in visiting the Bench lakes, Alpine lake, Goat lake, etc but not sure if I should wait another year...

Looking for suggestions for a quick trip to take advantage of this small break in the weather, preferably lowland. Open to anything around the southern Olympic Peninsula, OR Coast range, Mt. St. Helens area, or west Gorge/Mt. Hood. I'm having trouble settling on a destination and not finding a lot of helpful trip reports. No real limits on hiking distance or elevation, but prefer to avoid having to carry snowshoes or skis and/or having to camp on snow, if possible. Ideas appreciated!

We’re thinking of relocating to the Portland area. I’m in Utah right now so we’re spoiled as I love the rocky, steep hikes with the more vert the better. I understand fully that isn’t Portland, but I was wondering if anyone knew any spots within 15 to 30 miles of downtown that had some good elevation gain, 2,000 + feet or more? I train a lot so trying to stay in mountain climbing shape at least somewhat :)

Hello! I know theirs snow on the trail which I'm ready for but just wondering if the road to the trail head is drivable and clear?

Particularly is there any ice or snow on it?

I’m traveling to PDX next week and have a few extra days to do a short backpacking trip. I can deal with some cold weather, but I don’t want to get in over my head. I’m in decent shape and reasonably experienced. Any suggestions?

I'm in Seattle and have been hiking a lot in the area since moving here. Done hikes like lake Serene, granite mountain, storm king, high rock, etc. Looking for some good hikes for the winter months, Ive never been hiking in the snow before but am hoping to try it out this year.

Looks like we have a little dry spell ahead for the next few days, and I am itchin to get out of dodge and away from the malls. Would love anyone and everyone's suggestions for lowland hikes within 1-2 hr drive of Seattle (no ferries please) likely to be snow free. Last year I did Middle Fork Snoqualmie and it was beautiful and no crowds. Also on my list of possibilities is Oyster Dome. Those are my contributions, any other suggestions along those lines?

Hi, I'm new to Washington, and I love winter car camping. However, I hate putting on chains and don't have a 4WD/AWD car. I used to live in an area where I could get around that when the weather was good and highways/trailheads would be plowed, and areas in the national forest were still accessible for car camping (dispersed) in a sedan. The weather here is new for me. Are there areas of the Cascades that fit what I'm describing -- plowed roads and areas with pull-offs or campgrounds accessible for a sedan without needing chains? Areas where I could go be close to a trailhead where I can do some snowshoeing? Is it possible for me to go on a good weather day and the roads will be clear & chains not required?

Thanks!

It’s been a long time since I’ve been here and the ice caves are so much better really late in the fall season. Does anyone know if they are still accessible or is the trail covered in snow now? Last time I was there the bridge was out too - reconstructed I assume?

I have been through a formal ski course but it was 25 years ago. I could ski safely. I haven't skied since then. I want to start back up again. I was looking for somewhere to rent and test out my skiing ability on some bunny slopes. Normally I recreate in the I 90/Snoqualmie Pass area. Where do you recommend I rent skis from? And where do you recommend I try out the bunny slopes?

If it goes well, I may get fitted for skis and buy a season pass. But as you can imagine, I don't want to go through the time and considerable expense of boots, bindings, skis, and assorted equipment until I know for sure I can still get down the slope.

Another side question, I have a regular sedan car with fwd and low clearance. Will I be able to drive to the resort parking lots with snow up there?

Hi there,

Can you recommend some good hikes in gorge that is in good conditions in this time of year ?

Something around 6-8 miles with great views and maybe with river/like/waterfowl.

Thank you