News Release

Free Avalanche Awareness Class at Olympic National Park Visitor Center

Skiers enjoying winter recreation at Hurricane Ridge

NPS Photo

News Release Date: January 7, 2020

Contact: Penny Wagner, 360-565-3131

PORT ANGELES, WA: An Avalanche Awareness Class is scheduled for Thursday, January 9 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles. Matt Schonwald, Professional Observer at the Northwest Avalanche Center, will present important information on avalanche safety and winter recreation. This program is free of charge and open to the public. The Olympic National Park Visitor Center is located at 3002 Mount Angeles Road.

“Avalanche awareness is critically important for winter recreation at Hurricane Ridge,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum. “I encourage all snowboarders, skiers and snowshoers to participate in this free workshop.” 

With the Olympics’ steep terrain and heavy snow all snowboarders, skiers and snowshoers at Hurricane Ridge should be aware that they are traveling through potentially hazardous avalanche terrain. The workshop will focus on how to prepare for traveling in avalanche terrain, including proper equipment and the skills needed for self-rescue.  

For more information about planning a trip to Olympic National Park in winter visit the park website at www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-in-winter.htm.