Driving to the South District of the Mount Tahoma Trails Association

As some of you may know the original road that takes you to the south district was washed out several seasons ago. The new route is a little different and actually takes you through Ashford. You can stop in at Whittaker Mountaineering to reserve your hut or to buy your SNO-PARK permit. We also rent Cross-Country Skis, Snow Shoes and even Randonee Ski set-ups.www.WhittakerMountaineering.com

Once you leave our shop, you will head West on 706 towards Mount Rainier National Park. About two and a half miles down on your right you will see Skate Creek Road/Forest Service Road 52. Hang a left there and follow the road down across the Nisqually River. As the road starts to bed to the left you will see a neighborhood on the right called Paradise Estates. Turn right like you are heading into the neighborhood and you will notice a road marked to the left that will take you up to the SNO-PARK.

You will then follow this road until you come across this sign where you will turn right.

You will pass over several bridges on you way up to the SNO-PARK. This one is Catt Creek. The bridge was once washed out but has since been restored.

Here you can either head up to the SNOW-PARK or head right towards the Anderson Lake trailhead.

As you can see only vehicles are allowed in the SNO-PARKS. Above the SNO-PARKS only foot traffic is allowed for its users. Dogs are permitted though.

At the lower SNO-PARK there is a bathroom for use. At this point you want to make sure and have your SNO-PARK permit visible on your windsheild. Once you pass the restrooms you will drive to the Upper SNO-PARK. The road is usually plowed to this point.

BE SURE TO HAVE LOTS OF FUN AND BE SAFE.

WM