How snowy a winter at Rainier?
 

First time I booked us at the Paradise Lodge for mid-July, there was 5 feet of snow on the ground because of a huge snow year. I ended up cancelling (didn't want to schlep all the winter gear - already had a lot of kayaking and camping gear). We have an opportunity to go July 29th, 2011, but wonder how this winter is shaping up, it being a La Nina year (very evident in Mich, but maybe less so in WA). Thanks.

Around 90 inches depth at present, which is close to the average, but 15" more than this date last year.

If the opportunity is still there as of March 15, you should be able to decide then. If you like snow shoeing or X country skiing, you can rent the gear there. It's hard to know how fast the winter snow will melt or if there will be a flood.

Hi,

I'll be in Seattle last week of Jan. Is it typically rainy in Mt Rainier at that time of the year? Thinking of snowshoeing, but wouldn't want to do it if it's drizzly.

Thanks!

<i>I'll be in Seattle last week of Jan. Is it typically rainy in Mt Rainier at that time of the year? Thinking of snowshoeing, but wouldn't want to do it if it's drizzly.</i>

Depends on your altitude. Lots of snow at higher elevations, could be wet snow or mixture at the park entrances or lower elevations. Watch out for "Cascade concrete" - wet snow that is not the best for snowshoeing.