Two years ago this weekend, 30-foot snow drifts blocked the view from the lower windows. That means backpackers and climbers may face surprises. Streams used by trail hikers for water are expected to dry up earlier in the year. Some snow bridges across hidden crevasses already have fallen, and warming temperatures mean more danger from falling ice. Rafters and kayakers already are experiencing early, swift water from runoff.
Conditions vary from river to river and rapid to rapid.
Only slightly below-normal flows on the Skykomish had outfitter Chris Jonason encouraging river dogs to venture out in more flexible inflatable kayaks and suggesting slower water would make summer 2001 a good one for beginners. However, in drier areas, such as Hells Canyon and Idaho's Salmon River, whitewater guides fretted about having enough water for late-season trips. And on Oregon's big whitewater river, the Rogue, bookings are at a record pace, but experienced guides point out that some sections could get problematic right away. All these issues hinge on how hot and dry it gets this summer. In some areas, drought conditions remain moderate, and cool temperatures and June rains could further soften the blow.