About This Route
The Tower Falls to Chittenden Road snowshoe route is an intermediate 5-7 mile out-and-back from Tower Junction, following unplowed roads past the dramatic 132-foot Tower Fall cascade toward Mount Washburn's base. Accessible via the Northeast Entrance or Mammoth, it features rolling meadows, lodgepole forests, and potential wolf sightings in Lamar Valley proximity. Expect 500-800 feet elevation gain with variable snow depths. NPS emphasizes trail etiquette: avoid groomed ski tracks, yield to downhill skiers, and fill depressions after falls. This route connects to the Tower ski trail network for diverse terrain.
Safety Considerations
Key risks include avalanche terrain on steeper slopes (check MTAV forecast), open streams under snow bridges near Tower Creek, and extreme cold with wind chills to -30°F. Bison herds and wolves require vigilance; store food securely per Leave No Trace. Deep powder demands wide snowshoes to prevent fatigue. Weather changes rapidly; monitor NOAA forecasts and park updates at visitor centers. Groups of 4+ reduce risk, as advised by REI Expert Advice. Turn around if snowpack exceeds 4 feet ungroomed.
Essential Gear
Atlas 12" snowshoes for mixed terrain, Black Diamond avalanche transceiver/shovel/probe kit, Leki Makalu poles, merino wool mid-layers (Smartwool), Gore-Tex pants (Mammut), thermos for hot liquids, and SPOT Gen4 messenger. Carry NPS winter map and altimeter watch.
Emergency Tips
For avalanche burial, prioritize airway; use beacon search. Hypothermia victims need skin-to-skin warming. Signal rescuers with mirror or dye marker; nearest help at Tower Ranger Station.