NORTH BEND, Wash. — As western Washington enters the fall and winter months, volunteer-based nonprofit Seattle Mountain Rescue has some advice for hiking safely.
"This time of year, the weather's changing pretty quickly, so being able to have extra clothes so you can stay warm where you are," chairperson Doug McCall said. "Packing a headlamp is also a good idea since it gets dark earlier, and it's better than taking your phone and trying to burn your battery on your phone because you want to use that to be able to call for help if you need help."
This is along with the other essential items hikers are recommended to keep on-hand year-round: a map, compass and knowledge of how to use them; sunglasses, extra clothes, a first aid kit, a pocket knife, food and water and waterproof shelter.
Seattle Mountain Rescue responded to 87 missions last year involving 93 subjects. They recommend three major tips: get prepared, let someone know which path and trails you plan to take, and if you need help, call 911 and stay where you are so rescuers can use latitude and longitude data when possible.
For most of the fall season, trails will essentially get wetter as people might expect. Hikers should check weather reports for major concerns. But as snow begins to fall, that becomes even more crucial.
"It's been so dry lately that it'll probably be a little muddy, trails like Snow Lake are great in summertime but as winter comes, and snow is out there, that trail crosses a lot of avalanche terrain," McCall said.
If traveling where there is snow and potential for avalanches, hikers should also pack an avalanche beacon, probe and shovel. The Northwest Avalanche Center also offers safety education.
You can donate to support the work of Seattle Mountain Rescue here.