Eight accidents in two months — Snow Mountain National Park enforces winter season controls

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

With successive cold fronts bringing frequent snowfall and snow accumulation in high-altitude areas, Snow Mountain National Park has reported eight accident incidents since December 2012. The park management announced that to prevent further mishaps, winter season entry controls will be implemented starting January 27. Hikers applying to enter the park must attach a “Snow Climbing Equipment Checklist,” and the operating hours of trailheads will be adjusted from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

▲ Snow Mountain National Park is blanketed in white, attracting many hikers on a pilgrimage. (Photo / Courtesy ofReaching New Heights: The Beauty of Snow Mountain Facebook fan page, photo provided by volunteer Zheng Yaolong)

Snow Mountain National Park is home to 51 peaks over 3,000 meters in elevation. In just two short months, eight accidents have occurred, five of which were related to the low temperatures in the mountainous region. The park management noted that to ensure hiker safety, climbing teams must carry adequate cold-weather clothing and snow climbing gear, and team leaders must possess a valid snow training certificate issued by an officially registered institution or proof of having climbed world-renowned snow routes.

The park management stated that winter season entry application documents must include the “Self-Checklist for Snow Climbing Equipment and Skills on Snow Mountain Park Hiking Routes During Winter Season,” signed by the team leader and submitted to the park management for review. The relevant process takes 5 to 7 working days. During this period, inspections will be strengthened. If the team leader does not meet the requirements, the entire team’s entry will be canceled. If individual team members fail to comply, they will be prohibited from entering the park.

The park management reminds visitors that during the winter season, those engaging in hiking activities should bring ice crampons, ice axes, trekking poles, helmets, warm clothing, safety harnesses, and climbing ropes. Hikers should also engage in physical training in advance to prepare for the mountain’s low temperatures. If continuous heavy snowfall occurs, the park management may announce temporary entry suspensions based on snow conditions, resuming acceptance only after the snow has melted.