How to Plan a Sledding Trip to Mount Rainier

Washington's Mount Rainier is known for its majestic beauty, hiking trails and wildflowers. The mountain has an even wilder side though. The winter months bring snow, making the area a phenomenal place to go sledding. Jump in your winter gear and head to the mountain for a winter wonderland experience like no other.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Winter clothing
• Blankets
• Money
• Plastic bag
• Snow boots
• Full tank of gas
• Park map
• Hot cocoa
• Sled
• Tire chains
• Food

1. Round up your sleds. You will want to do this early in the season. As soon as any snow falls in Washington, it will be a wild goose chase to hunt down a sled. Inner tubes work great for sledding and can be purchased from tire shops. Sleds are not available for purchase on the mountain, but you will find compressed air for filling inner tubes. Wooden toboggans with runners are not allowed on the mountain.
2. The depth of snow is not predictable from year to year. Check weather forecasts and current conditions for the mountain as well as snow depth for Paradise, Mount Rainier's prime winter recreation area. The snow at Paradise must be a certain depth before the runs are open so that the wildlife on the mountain is not damaged by sledding.
3. Fill your car with up with gasoline before driving up the mountain. Should an unexpected storm hit, you will want plenty of fuel in your car to keep you warm while you wait the storm out. You should also put extra snacks and water in your vehicle for this same reason. Carry tire chains and blankets in your trunk for emergencies.
4. Arrive to the mountain early. There will be fewer people early in the day allowing for more sled rides and less standing in line waiting for your turn. Sledding sites are open until dusk. Leave the mountain early as well. You will save yourself time waiting in traffic with tired, hungry and grouchy kids.
5. Bring a thermos full of hot cocoa and pack plenty of picnic food. Plan on eating your lunch on the bumper of your car. There are a few restaurants available close to the mountain, but not without a drive. Save the restaurant option for a meal on the way out of the park, so as to maximize your sledding time.
6. Respect nature and wildlife while on the mountain. The rangers, and many fellow sledding friends, are very staunch about following the rules. Stay on the trails. Do not deviate from them for any reason. Do not pick anything. If you are found breaking any rules or defacing trees or public property, you will be fined.
7. Dress in layers. It is best to be prepared for a range of weather possibilities. Better to be overdressed and peel off layers than to be underdressed and shivering all day.
   
8. Wear the appropriate snow gear. Definitely wear pants designed for snow play or skiing; they will help keep you dry and warm. Snow boots with treads are a must. The hike to the top of the sledding hills is steep and can be slippery.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for a possible weather emergency. Being caught in a snowstorm or an avalanche will be much more bearable if you are prepared.
• Bring a plastic bag to put wet clothes in.
• You must pay a park entrance fee. The fee will allow unlimited access for 1 week.