Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

RECREATION

Know Before You Go

Return to Trip Planning

A well-planned outing can make the difference between a life-long memory and a disaster you hope to forget as soon as possible. Beautiful, sunny conditions where you live won't necessarily guarantee you the same when you're planning to hike a trail that's located at an elevation of 5000 feet.

The climate is unpredictable in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. Plan for rain in any season and snow in the spring and fall. The sun can be damaging at higher elevations; remember to wear appropriate clothing and use a good sun block lotion.

This page is dedicated to helping you think through the items you should consider to make your trip as enjoyable and safe as possible.

Current Conditions

Check the Current Conditions page for links to the National Weather Service forecasts, road condition information, wildfire information, as well as Ranger District recreation condition updates and district contact information for local information.

Campground Fees, Reservations & Regulations

Some campgrounds require a reservation, while others are first-come, first served. Check out the campground pages to find out what you need to do.

Permits

Before you leave for an activity on the Forest, please be sure to check whether or not you need a permit or pass.

Maps

The Northwest Interpretive Association has a large selection of books, maps, and other items available for on-line purchase. The Northwest Interpretive Association is a nonprofit organization.  Money received through sales, memberships and donations is used to help study and interpret National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers areas for visitors.

Hiking Tips (The 10 Essentials)

If you are a newcomer to hiking in Oregon, a few words of caution: weather is unpredictable and changes rapidly. Your trip will be more pleasant if you are prepared for rain or snow even on a sunny summer day. Water found along the trail should always be treated if you decide to drink it. The 10 essentials you should carry include:

1. Map and compass
2. Flashlight and batteries.
3. Matches, candle or firestarter - make sure matches are protected.
4. Small knife.
5. First aid kit - carry items that take care of blisters, headaches, etc.
6. Sunglasses, sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
7. Mirror and whistle.
8. Raingear and extra clothing.
9. Water - at least one quart.
10. Extra food - high energy snack such as candy, jerky or meat bars.

Wilderness Trips

Special considerations need to be taken before you begin your wilderness excursion. The following links will help you plan your trip:

• General regulations and minimum impact suggestions
• Wilderness permits
• LEAVE NO TRACE Guidelines

Winter Activities

If you're planning to have fun in the snow, check the following links first:

• Road conditions
• Sno-Park Permits
• Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center

Wildlife Viewing

Enjoy Wildlife at a Distance
Many species, including deer, elk, and beaver can best be seen during the first or last hours of daylight. Other wildlife may be migratory in nature and may only be observed at certain times of the year often in the spring or fall.

Avoid touching, feeding or moving close to animals. Some birds will abandon their nests if they feel threatened. Even a normally shy animal may be dangerous if cornered. An animal which comes to depend on human handouts for food, may become a pest searching for human food.

A small animal which appears to be abandoned may have parents waiting just out of site. If you've located an animal which appears to be injured, sick or abandoned, contact the nearest Department of Fish and Wildlife office.

Take Your Binoculars and Field Guides
Move slowly and quietly to listen for the sounds of birds and animals. Watch the area using binoculars. A good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope will open up a whole new world of wildlife viewing.

Field guides can help in identifying a variety of species and can tell you the best dates to view migratory wildlife. They can also tell you what habitats an animal prefers, when it is active, and what it eats. Many field guides are available in bookstores and Forest Service visitor centers.