Alpine Lakes
Washington Trails Association supports efforts to add wilderness protection to areas adjacent to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
- Congressman Dave Reichert and supporters of Pratt River area additions to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
The Middle Fork Snoqualmie River valley has drawn hikers from the Puget Sound region for decades. From its wild rivers offering unparalleled whitewater kayaking, to the lush forests threaded with hiking trails, and soaring walls beckoning rock climbers, this valley offers a wealth of recreation opportunities.
For many years, it was also home to a much more sinister form of “recreation.” Streambeds and the forest floor were strewn with garbage and abandoned cars from illegal dumping and heaps of shotgun shells from recreational shooters. Out-of-control cross country use of by vehicles tore up sensitive riparian landscapes. And meth labs flourished deep in the forest. Much of that has changed in the past several years, as recreation and conservation organizations have turned their attention to preserving this lovely backyard wilderness.
Wilderness Designation Proposed
In 2007, Congressman Reichert signaled his commitment to pass legislation that would add the Pratt River Valley and Middle Fork to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. This process is just getting started, and WTA has joined with the Sierra Club, The Mountaineers, Middle Fork Outdoor Recreation Coalition, The Wilderness Society, Alpine Lakes Protection Society, and Washington Wilderness Coalition to help preserve these wild areas.
How You Can Help
To stay up-to-date on this and other wild land protections join the Trail Action Network to receive email updates and calls to action on issues that hikers care about. Also, read our Signpost Blog post from November 13, 2007.
