Hiker Headlines: North Cascades Highway Closes, Meteors, Wildfire Science, Gifts

It's Dec. 12. The North Cascades Highway is closed for the season. A big meteor shower is this weekend. Scientists are studying how to predict wildfire behavior. And we have some ideas for non-material gifts for your loved ones. 

If you can find a bit of clear sky this weekend, you might be able to enjoy the Geminid meteor shower. Photo by Jorge Martinez.

That’s a wrap! With a little help from Mazama, the avalanche rescue goat, the state Department of Transportation closed the North Cascades Highway for the season on Wednesday. The road closes every year to protect Sasquatch habitat during the winter months. OK, OK, not really. It closes to protect drivers and transportation workers from avalanches and other hazards. A number of other passes around the state are also closed for the season.

Make a wish! If you’re lucky enough to find a bit of clear sky this weekend (odds are a bit better for those on the eastside of the Cascades) take some time to look up. The Geminid meteor shower peaks on Friday and Saturday. If you need a hot drink to keep you warm, we have you covered. 

Fighting fire with science: The University of Washington is working on a project to better predict the behavior of wildfires. While it’s hard to think about right now, as the rain falls, many recent summers have been very smoky in Washington. Researchers hope the work will help them better fight large fires.

A season of giving: Sometimes, experiences are the best gifts of all. We have some ideas that might be the perfect thing for your outdoorsy loved ones. And however you celebrate the season, we hope you find a little time to explore the outdoors. Thank you for being part of this trail community that continues to inspire us every day.   

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