Hiker Headlines: Hiker Survey, Rainier Roads Close, Forest Jobs, New Plan for Gorge, Bat Week

It’s October 22. Take a short survey to tell us about your summer hiking season. Roads close at Mount Rainier National Park due to winter conditions. The forest service is hiring. A new plan for the Columbia River Gorge looks toward the future. And, it’s Bat Week! Here’s some news you might have missed while out on trail this week.

As winter conditions return to Mount Rainier, roads are closing. Photo by Lisa Elliot. 

Hiker experience survey: WTA is curious to hear about your experience hiking in Washington this summer. Please take 4 minutes to complete this survey so we can continue serving your hiking needs in the best way possible.

Roads close at Rainier: Stevens Canyon Road and the road to Sunrise are the latest to close in Mount Rainier National Park due to winter conditions. With a winter storm watch in effect for much of the Cascades this weekend, it’s a good time to start checking those road closures before you head out, and prepare for winter driving and cold, snow-covered trails.

Work for the Forest Service: The Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service will soon begin hiring to fill over 1,000 seasonal positions in Washington and Oregon. Get your application in between Oct. 30 and Nov. 9 to be considered.

New plan for the Columbia River Gorge: A new management plan for the Columbia River Gorge has been announced. The plan will set the course for the future of this National Scenic Area. It includes expanded environmental protections as well as the notable additions of both a climate action strategy, and new policies designed to increase diversity, equity and inclusion.

It’s Bat Week: Bat Week, the international celebration to highlight the importance of bat conservation, runs from Oct. 24-30. Learn more about the 15 species of bats that call Washington State home, and tune into Facebook Live on Oct. 23 at 12:30 p.m. to hear a wildlife biologist from Colville National Forest talk about the importance of conserving these animals.  

BE IN THE KNOW

• Keep up to date with Trail News, our monthly email newsletter. 
• Check our Hiking Guide for information on what trails are open. 
• Check trip reports for latest conditions on trails. And if you go for a hike, file your own trip report.
• Sign up for Families Go Hiking, our email newsletter for families with plenty of tips on keeping kids busy.