Hiker Headlines: Forest Service funding, Staircase area reopens, closure at High Rock and Hidden Lake Lookout, upcoming fun

It’s July 9. WTA joined Sen. Patty Murray to discuss concerns about cuts to Forest Service funding and staffing. The developed area at Staircase on the Olympic Peninsula has reopened after a yearlong closure! However, be aware of some other closures, like the High Rock trail and the road to Hidden Lake. Hike-a-Thon registration has begun and check other fun events are coming up. Here’s some news you may have missed while out on trail this week.

Jaime Loucky, WTA's CEO, talked with Sen. Patty Murray and other leaders to discuss concerns about cuts to funding and staffing for the U.S. Forest Service. 

Forest Service funding: WTA joined Sen. Patty Murray to discuss concerns about cuts to Forest Service funding and staffing. This week, WTA joined Sen. Patty Murray in sounding the alarm about the danger of staff cuts and reorganization at the Forest Service ahead of wildfire season. “If enacted, these cuts will make it harder for the agency — and for nonprofit partners like WTA — to maintain and care for our public lands,” said Jaime Loucky, WTA’s CEO. 

Part of the Staircase area has re-opened after a fire last year. That includes the trail to Mount Rose, which WTA crews worked on earlier this year. Photo by Jessi Loerch.

Staircase area reopens: The Staircase developed area around Lake Cushman has reopened after a year-long closure from damage due to the Bear Gulch Fire. The campground, ranger station, Rapids Loop Trail and other facilities are available for use. Note that the surrounding wilderness area is still closed due to fire damage, including several trails like the Wagonwheel and Four Stream trails in Olympic National Park and the Copper Creek trail and FR-2451 in Olympic National Forest. 

Trail and road closures: Be aware of the following closures as you plan your next hike:

• The High Rock trail will be closed in its entirety through Aug. 23 for construction. This includes the lookout and trailhead. 
• The road to the Hidden Lake trailhead is closed to vehicles due to a washout at milepost 2.6. 
• The Iron Creek Recreation Area is closed until further notice for safety reasons due to storm damage. This includes the campground, picnic area and area trails. 
• Forest Road 12 in the Mount Baker area will be closed for repairs in August, which will restrict access to the Elbow Lake trailhead. 

Hike-a-Thon registration is open! Every summer, the WTA community comes together to raise funds for our beloved trails and public lands. Hike-a-Thon is an opportunity for everyone to make a difference and to share your love of being outdoors with your friends and family. And registration is now open! Check out this year’s great prizes, and sign up today so you don’t miss a moment of the fun. 

Fun upcoming events: Looking for some fun? Check out these upcoming events: 

• Attend a special movie screening to support WTA! Granite Rapid Moons is the first narrative feature film shot primarily inside the rim of the Grand Canyon. A portion of the proceeds from the screening will support WTA’s work. Join us and the filmmakers on July 21 at 6:30 p.m. at SIFF Film Center at Seattle Center. 
• Join WTA staff and folks who love the outdoors at our Bellingham Hiker Happy Hour on July 23 from 5–7 p.m. at Wander Brewing! Our Hiker Happy Hours give you a chance to connect with fellow hikers, learn what’s next for trails in your area and how to get involved. Your tickets include a complimentary drink ticket, appetizers and a 1-year membership to WTA. Register online. 

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