[blendergasket]

I'm planning a few day trip into the Olympics next weekend and want to visit one of those two passes. Would an ice axe be needed for these passes right now? Thank you for any info!

[SwitchbackFisher]

Id say if in doubt bring your ice axe, I've found they come in handy when dealing with sketchy non winter conditions too. They are so light it's a lot of reassurance for minimal weight.

[zephyr]

[gb]

Yes, an ice axe. The Hurricane webcam still shows a lot of snow in protected bowls.

[blendergasket]

Ok, thank you for the info.

[Eric Hansen]

Lot of other ways to save weight. When you want it you want it bad.

[blendergasket]

True. There's a new trip report on WTA that makes it seem unnecessary for Constance pass. I may bring it anyways.

[Eric Hansen]

blender gasket, I can't take credit for the advice passed on. Someone said exactly that to me many years back when I asked "should I bring the ice axe?" The logic lingered in my memory.

[silence]

Hope you're not planning to camp in the NP ... it's closed.

[benneke]

Is backpacking allowed in Olympic NF? Last summer I looped Greywolf and Constance passes and only camped on the USFS lands just outside the park. It was a monster day going from the lower Greywolf to Boulder Shelter. Both passes can also be reached as day trips

[silence]

OK to backpack in the NF but it says dispersed camping so don't know if you can set up in organized backcountry camps like Handy or Boulder. Still suspended in the NP with no explanation. The park says to call and reschedule if someone already has a permit so maybe they have an idea of when they'll open. That is quite the haul, but beautiful high country, worth spending some unrushed quality time there.

[reststep]

Here is a link to a recent trip report about that area on WH & C. Sounds like they camped outside the National Park. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3401352499883009&set=pcb.3015374998688827&type=3&theater&ifg=1

[silence]

ONP wilderness is open to backpacking a/o today. Still you need to get a permit in advance: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several changes are in place for Wilderness Camping Permits for the 2020 season. Wilderness Information Centers will remain closed to the public for the summer of 2020. If you have any questions, WIC staff are available via email at OLYM_WIC@nps.gov or by phone at (360) 565-3100. Wilderness Camping Permits are required for all overnight stays in the Olympic National Park wilderness (backcountry) year-round.