Hiker Headlines: Labor Day Weekend, Closures, New Funding

It’s September 1. The long weekend is almost here! Get some inspiration on where to go, and keep up to date on the latest trail and road closures. And, a new infrastructure bill will award Washington $6.3 million in funding for forest projects. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

Multiple trails, including Green Mountain trail, and roads are closed near the Darrington area due to wildfires. Photo by Sarah Cooley.

Labor Day weekend: The long weekend is fast approaching! If you’re looking to hit the trail, we have some recommendations on where to go. It’s wildfire season, so check on fire activity and current conditions before heading out. The Forest Service also shared some tips on how to be safe while recreating over the weekend. 

Wildfire closures: Suiattle River Road (FR-26) is closed at the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest boundary due to the Suiattle River Fire. The Darrington Ranger District is also closing the Boulder Lake trail, along with its access road Tenas Creek Road (2660), Huckleberry Mountain trail, Buck Creek trail, Green Mountain trail, Downey Creek trail, Suiattle River Trail, Sulphur Creek trail and Sulphur Mountain trail. Per the Forest Service, along with the Hannegan Pass trailhead closure, the trail is now also closed.

Road and park closures: Repair projects in Olympic National Park will close some roads this year. Obstruction Point Road will be closed starting September 6 through the winter, and Hurricane Ridge Road will be closed starting September 16 through October 21. The lower parking lot and all restrooms at Tolmie State Park will be closed starting September 6 through around February 2023 for a fish passage project. The upper parking lot will stay open, and portable toilets will be available for use. 

New funding: With the passage of an infrastructure bill funding the Legacy Roads and Trails Program, Washington state is receiving $6.3 million for forest projects. The funds will help with road repair, fish passage improvements, trail maintenance and work in the Snoquera region, where WTA has volunteered often for the last few years on trail maintenance. 

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