Hiker Headlines: Mount Rainier and North Cascades Openings, Hopeful News for Public Lands

It’s June 11. Mount Rainier is opening up more areas for day use. North Cascades National Park will begin to allow camping and backpacking. An important bill for public lands is making progress in the U.S. Senate. And if you want to get outside but don't have the gear you need, there's a new option for easy rentals via the mail. Here’s some news you might have missed this week.

Mount Rainier and North Cascades national parks are both allowing more access after being closed to protect public safety. Photo by Judith Klinke.

Rainier reopening: Mount Rainier National Park is beginning to allow more access after being closed to protect public health. The road from Nisqually is now open in the southwest corner of the park. The White River Road is now open as far as the White River Campground and Ohanapecosh Campground is open for day use and to access trails. Campgrounds are still closed for overnight use and many facilities are closed. Visitors should remember to #RecreateResponsibly. Also remember that it's still winter conditions in higher elevations at the park.

Overnight in the North Cascades: North Cascades National Park Complex is beginning to allow more access to areas as well. Beginning Friday, June 12, campgrounds and backcountry campsites will begin reopening. The Wilderness Information Center will also reopen to allow visitors to get permits and the information they need for trips. Some areas and facilities remain closed and trails may still have hazards after winter. 

Hopeful news for public lands: This week, the Senate voted 80-17 to end debate on the Great American Outdoors Act, which will allow the Senate to vote on the bill. With bipartisan support, things are looking good for the act, which will permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund and invest $1.9 billion into the public lands deferred maintenance backlog. The bill faces more procedural votes and is anticipated to potentially receive a final vote in the Senate early next week. Join our Trail Action Network to learn more about this bill as it progresses.

Gear to rent: If you need gear to help you get outside, a new partnership between Washington State Parks and Arrive Outdoors offers an affordable option. Equipment includes hiking and camping gear, and it’s shipped directly to your home. (If you’re looking for gear rentals, we also have a list of other options around the state.)

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 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.