Saturday Evening August 18 at Longmire!
Contact: Park Ranger Curt Jacquot, (360) 569-6577
On Saturday August 18, Mount Rainier National Park will present Shadows of the Past, a “living history” program. Volunteers and staff in costumes will portray important individuals from the park’s past. The early story of Mount Rainier and the National Park Service from 1883 through 1916 will be told. Lead Rangers will guide groups along the Trail of the Shadows in Longmire. Historical figures will emerge from the darkness while volunteers with lanterns illuminate the scene!
The free program lasts about 80 minutes. Admission to the park is $15 for private vehicles.
Longmire is six miles east of the park’s southwest Nisqually Entrance. Walks will leave (rain or shine) from in front of the National Park Inn at Longmire at 8:30 PM, 8:50 PM, 9:10 PM, and 9:30 PM. Those attending should bring warm clothing, sturdy footwear, insect repellant, and a flashlight.
– NPS –
Showing posts with label Mt. Rainier. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mt. Rainier. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Thursday, July 19, 2012
UPDATE: Rehabilitation of 10 miles of Stevens Canyon Road in 2012 and 2013 Phase 2 Effort
Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Randy King and Federal Highway Administration, Western Federal Lands Highway Division officials announced last May that Phase 2 of the planned rehabilitation of 10 miles of Stevens Canyon Road was awarded to Tucci and Sons, Inc. of Tacoma, WA for $8,910,093.23 with a Notice to Proceed issued for project start on May 29, 2012 and a contract completion date of September 17, 2013.
Work is progressing well and involves resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation of the Stevens Canyon Road and other related facilities, including bridges, tunnels, culverts, guard walls, retaining walls, turnouts and the short Wonderland Trail section adjacent to Reflection Lake. The improvements will occur along two segments of the road, totaling 10.09 miles of the 19 mile road.
Stevens Canyon Road connects the east and west sides of the park, extending for 19 miles from SR 123 at the east end to intersection with the Nisqually to Paradise Road at the west end, two miles south of Paradise. During the 2012 closure period, visitors are encouraged to access the Paradise area from the southwest via the Nisqually Entrance at the east end of SR 706. Visitors traveling from the east via SR 410, SR 123, and/or US 12 who wish to visit the Paradise area are encouraged to seek alternate routes.
While the construction and associated closures and traffic delays present an inconvenience, the rehabilitation work will not only improve the driving surface of the roadway, but ensure its longevity.
Updated information on this project may be obtained by calling Mount Rainier National Park at 360-569-2166. Information on this project, as well as general park information, is also available on Mount Rainier National Park’s website www.nps.gov/mora/parknews/newsreleases.htm.
###
NOTE: Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most cell phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that manages 4.6 million calls each year. Plan to call prior driving to the park, as cell phone coverage is minimal within the park. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass conditions, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
Work is progressing well and involves resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation of the Stevens Canyon Road and other related facilities, including bridges, tunnels, culverts, guard walls, retaining walls, turnouts and the short Wonderland Trail section adjacent to Reflection Lake. The improvements will occur along two segments of the road, totaling 10.09 miles of the 19 mile road.
- Up until September 4, visitors should anticipate 20-minute delays, Monday – Friday, through each of two segments of roadwork on Stevens Canyon Road.
- Beginning the week of July 16 and until mid-September while rehabilitating the Ohanapecosh and Falls Creek Bridges, located on the east end of the project (Segment 4), one-lane alternating traffic will be implemented as the contractor performs repair work. A traffic control light system will be in place at both bridge sites to regulate alternating traffic during non-work hours. During work hours (7am to 5pm Mondays – Fridays) and peak traffic weekend periods (10am to 5pm), active traffic control flagging will be implemented to facilitate traffic flow.
- Bicyclists and motorcyclists are particularly encouraged to travel cautiously through the construction zones where gravel surfaces will periodically be encountered.
- From September 4, 2012 until winter closure, Stevens Canyon Road will be closed to through traffic (for both vehicles and bicycles) from just east of the intersection with the Paradise Valley Road to the east end of the tunnel at Box Canyon.
- Visitors will be able to access Backbone Ridge, Box Canyon and adjacent trailheads via the East Entrance near State Route 123 during the 2012 closure. Wonderland Trail hikers as well as day hikers will be permitted to hike through the construction zone to access adjacent trails.
- Stevens Canyon roadwork is scheduled to extend until mid September 2013, although no closures are anticipated during the 2013 season.
Stevens Canyon Road connects the east and west sides of the park, extending for 19 miles from SR 123 at the east end to intersection with the Nisqually to Paradise Road at the west end, two miles south of Paradise. During the 2012 closure period, visitors are encouraged to access the Paradise area from the southwest via the Nisqually Entrance at the east end of SR 706. Visitors traveling from the east via SR 410, SR 123, and/or US 12 who wish to visit the Paradise area are encouraged to seek alternate routes.
While the construction and associated closures and traffic delays present an inconvenience, the rehabilitation work will not only improve the driving surface of the roadway, but ensure its longevity.
Updated information on this project may be obtained by calling Mount Rainier National Park at 360-569-2166. Information on this project, as well as general park information, is also available on Mount Rainier National Park’s website www.nps.gov/mora/parknews/newsreleases.htm.
###
NOTE: Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most cell phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that manages 4.6 million calls each year. Plan to call prior driving to the park, as cell phone coverage is minimal within the park. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass conditions, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
VISITOR SHUTTLE SERVICE TO BEGIN FRIDAY JUNE 29, 2012
Mount Rainier Acting Superintendent Randy King advises that park visitors will once again be able to utilize the free visitor shuttle for transportation into the park from Ashford, Longmire and Paradise during the 2012 summer season running for 10 weekends beginning Friday June 29 through Sunday September 2. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays the shuttle will run daily between Longmire and Paradise with stops at Cougar Rock and Narada Falls on the uphill run, and stopping at Comet Falls (pending status of the damaged and currently closed trail) and Cougar Rock on the downhill run. At Longmire, visitors will board the shuttle at the historic Longmire Gas Station. On Saturdays and Sundays only, visitors can board the shuttle in Ashford at Whittaker’s Summit Haus (on SR706), connecting with the Paradise Shuttle in Longmire. An additional shuttle will transport visitors to and
from the Paradise Valley Road, where overflow parking will be directed, and the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center during periods of peak demand.
For shuttle schedules and other park information, check the park’s web page
at www.nps.gov/mora.
-NPS-
from the Paradise Valley Road, where overflow parking will be directed, and the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center during periods of peak demand.
For shuttle schedules and other park information, check the park’s web page
at www.nps.gov/mora.
-NPS-
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Comet Falls Trail Section Closed Temporarily Due to Hazardous Trail Condition
Superintendent Randy King has announced that the Comet Falls Trail has been temporarily closed to public use 1 mile beyond the trailhead, due to an extremely hazardous condition on the trail. A substantial washout, approximately 10 ft. across and 30 ft. deep, made worse with the recent rains over the past several weeks, has created unstable conditions which has undermined the trail approximately 1 mile in from the trailhead. Snow and ice in the area of the washout adds to the hazard, especially if a
hiker were to attempt to walk around the washout. It should also be noted that snow and ice conditions all along the trail are hazardous to travel even before getting to the washout area. Next week, it is anticipated that the park trail crew will access this area to begin building a safe route around the washout. Public notice will be given when the trail is again open for hiking.
Hikers in Mount Rainier should be aware that late snow and ice from the winter still persists on trails at the park’s higher elevations. Hikers need to use caution and good judgment as steep slopes covered with snow and ice will be very slippery or unstable, and streams and rivers are running fast and high as runoff is occurring at its maximum levels. Also, as the winter snow melts back, trail damage, washed out bridges, or other unknown hazards may be uncovered before park crews can repair them.
Trail conditions are continuously being updated on the park’s website at:
http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/trails-and-backcountry-camp-conditions.htm
hiker were to attempt to walk around the washout. It should also be noted that snow and ice conditions all along the trail are hazardous to travel even before getting to the washout area. Next week, it is anticipated that the park trail crew will access this area to begin building a safe route around the washout. Public notice will be given when the trail is again open for hiking.
Hikers in Mount Rainier should be aware that late snow and ice from the winter still persists on trails at the park’s higher elevations. Hikers need to use caution and good judgment as steep slopes covered with snow and ice will be very slippery or unstable, and streams and rivers are running fast and high as runoff is occurring at its maximum levels. Also, as the winter snow melts back, trail damage, washed out bridges, or other unknown hazards may be uncovered before park crews can repair them.
Trail conditions are continuously being updated on the park’s website at:
http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/trails-and-backcountry-camp-conditions.htm
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Mount Rainier National Park Offers Free Admission this Saturday
Ashford, WA: Get a head start on your summer fun with free admission to Mount Rainier National Park this Saturday, June 9. In celebration of National Get Outdoors Day, all 397 national parks, including Mount Rainier National Park will waive entrance fees.
“Outdoor physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and Mount Rainier is a great place to get out and enjoy snow-free areas such as the Trail of the Shadows at Longmire or the Carbon River and Ohanapecosh areas” stated Park Superintendent Randy King.
Park roads currently open include Nisqually Entrance to Paradise, Westside Road, Stevens Canyon, State Routes 123 and 410 and the White River Road to the White River Campground. Park Road Crews are in the process of removing the winter snowpack from the Sunrise Road in anticipation of having the road open to the public by June 22 (conditions permitting). Sunrise Visitor Center and Sunrise Lodge Snack Bar & Gift Shop are scheduled to open for the season June 29. The free public shuttle between Longmire and Paradise will begin operation on June 22 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and from Ashford (Saturday, Sunday only).
National Get Outdoors Day, now in its fifth year, encourages Americans, especially youth, to participate in outdoor activities while enjoying the beauty of public lands such as national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. Nationwide, hundreds of organizations and businesses will partner with Federal, state, and local agencies to provide fun and healthy events at sites throughout the country.
President Barack Obama has proclaimed the month of June as Great Outdoors Month and encourages all Americans to share in the natural splendor of which we are all proud inheritors.
At Mount Rainier visitors are invited to join a volunteer project: (1) a campground opening project for all ages at Longmire at 9:30 a.m. (for details, see http:/ tinyurl.com/cnktf74); or (2) a trail maintenance project on the Comet Falls Trails with the Washington Trails Association (http://vols.wta.org/ web/web.pl?s +19541+WP). Or, go for a hike on one of our many lower elevation trails, complete a Jr. Ranger booklet at one of our visitor centers, or play in more than 10 feet of snow that still blankets the subalpine meadows at Paradise (www.nps.gov/mora)!
Mount Rainier National Park will waive its $15 entrance fee on four more days in 2012 – September 29 (National Public Lands Day) and November 10 to 12 (Veterans Day weekend).
If you are planning a trip that includes multiple national parks, you might consider the $80 annual pass that provides entrance to all national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and many other Federal lands – more than 2,000 in all. This America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is offered free to all active duty military members and their dependents. Information on these and other pass options is available online. Mount Rainier National Park also offers an annual pass for the park for $30.
"You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
Links used:
http://facebook.com/MountRainierNPS
http://twitter.com/MountRainierNPS
http://youtube.com/MountRainierNPS
http://flickr.com/groups/MountRainierNPS
www.nps.gov
“Outdoor physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and Mount Rainier is a great place to get out and enjoy snow-free areas such as the Trail of the Shadows at Longmire or the Carbon River and Ohanapecosh areas” stated Park Superintendent Randy King.
Park roads currently open include Nisqually Entrance to Paradise, Westside Road, Stevens Canyon, State Routes 123 and 410 and the White River Road to the White River Campground. Park Road Crews are in the process of removing the winter snowpack from the Sunrise Road in anticipation of having the road open to the public by June 22 (conditions permitting). Sunrise Visitor Center and Sunrise Lodge Snack Bar & Gift Shop are scheduled to open for the season June 29. The free public shuttle between Longmire and Paradise will begin operation on June 22 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) and from Ashford (Saturday, Sunday only).
National Get Outdoors Day, now in its fifth year, encourages Americans, especially youth, to participate in outdoor activities while enjoying the beauty of public lands such as national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. Nationwide, hundreds of organizations and businesses will partner with Federal, state, and local agencies to provide fun and healthy events at sites throughout the country.
President Barack Obama has proclaimed the month of June as Great Outdoors Month and encourages all Americans to share in the natural splendor of which we are all proud inheritors.
At Mount Rainier visitors are invited to join a volunteer project: (1) a campground opening project for all ages at Longmire at 9:30 a.m. (for details, see http:/ tinyurl.com/cnktf74); or (2) a trail maintenance project on the Comet Falls Trails with the Washington Trails Association (http://vols.wta.org/ web/web.pl?s +19541+WP). Or, go for a hike on one of our many lower elevation trails, complete a Jr. Ranger booklet at one of our visitor centers, or play in more than 10 feet of snow that still blankets the subalpine meadows at Paradise (www.nps.gov/mora)!
Mount Rainier National Park will waive its $15 entrance fee on four more days in 2012 – September 29 (National Public Lands Day) and November 10 to 12 (Veterans Day weekend).
If you are planning a trip that includes multiple national parks, you might consider the $80 annual pass that provides entrance to all national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and many other Federal lands – more than 2,000 in all. This America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is offered free to all active duty military members and their dependents. Information on these and other pass options is available online. Mount Rainier National Park also offers an annual pass for the park for $30.
"You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
Links used:
http://facebook.com/MountRainierNPS
http://twitter.com/MountRainierNPS
http://youtube.com/MountRainierNPS
http://flickr.com/groups/MountRainierNPS
www.nps.gov
Friday, May 11, 2012
MOUNT RAINIER SPRING/SUMMER OPENING SCHEDULE
With warmer, sunny days becoming a little more frequent in the Northwest now, it seems Spring has officially arrived and Summer is not far behind. However, at Mount Rainier snow still blankets the slopes (15 feet at Paradise) and roadways. The Spring melt is beginning and park Road Crews are cutting their way through the snowed-in roadway at Stevens Canyon. This is still a great time of year to visit the park, to view the amazing snowpack, to cross-country ski or snowshoe. Be sure to check on conditions with park staff before going – spring avalanches can be deadly.
Paradise Inn Opens May 18 - On Friday, May 18, the historic Paradise Inn opens its doors to welcome visitors for the 2012 season. Constructed in 1916, the Inn showcases a beautiful lobby and dining room featuring hand painted hanging lamps depicting park wildflowers, three huge stone fireplaces to welcome guests, 118 guest rooms, a café, and gift shop with authentic Native American arts and crafts. A full service dining room offers Northwest cuisine. The Inn is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
In addition to the Paradise Inn, the National Park Inn at Longmire is also open for visitors. The National Park Inn offers 25 guests rooms, a cozy fireside room for guests to enjoy, full service restaurant, general store and gift shop.
Both inns are operated by Mount Rainier Guest Services, Incorporated. Reservations can be made on line at www.mtrainierguestservices.com or by telephone at 360-569-2275.
Businesses in the gateway communities surrounding the park are also open daily providing lodging, meals, gifts, equipment rentals, horseback riding, fishing, special events and a variety of other needs to park visitors. Information on these businesses is available on the internet at
www.visitrainier.com, www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com or www.minerallake.com.
CURRENT STATUS AND PROJECTED OPENING DATES:
Note: These dates are projected and may be subject to change depending on conditions.
ROADS:
Road Construction:
Stevens Canyon Road: Road construction repair work will be occurring on two sections of the Stevens Canyon Road throughout the summer. Work will be Monday through Friday until Labor Day - 20-minute delays should be anticipated at each section. After Labor Day the road will be closed to all traffic from just east of the intersection with the Paradise Valley Road to east end of the tunnel at Box Canyon for the remainder of the season, Visitors will still be able to access Box Canyon via the East Entrance. During closure period, the road will be closed to through traffic for both vehicles and cyclists.
SR 123: A micro-surfacing treatment will be applied on the roadway from MP 6.8 to MP 13.8 (Cayuse Pass) from August 6 to August 17, 2012 with 20-minute delays anticipated. In addition, replacement of a failed deep culvert at MP 10.6 will take place in mid- to late September. It is anticipated that the work will take 2-days to accomplish and due to the depth of the culvert a road closure will be necessary. A press release will be issued prior to the closure.
Longmire:
Longmire Museum: Open daily - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. through June 30. 9:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. July 1-September 3
Longmire Wilderness Information Center: Open daily -7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
National Park Inn: Open daily year round
Cougar Rock:
Cougar Rock Campground: May 25
Cougar Rock Picnic Area: May 25
Paradise:
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center: Open daily -10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (until May 17)
Paradise Inn: May 18 to June 15 -10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
June 16 to September 2 – 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Ohanapecosh:
Ohanapecosh Campground May 25
Ohanapecosh Visitor Center May 25–May 28 -10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Fri.,
Sat. Sun., Mon.)
June 2-3 (Sat., Sun.)
June 9-September 2 – 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
White River:
White River Road to Campground lot May 25
White River Campground June 29
Sunrise:
Sunrise Lodge (snack bar & gift shop) June 29
Sunrise Visitor Center June 29
Carbon River:
Ranger Station Open year round - Call for hours -
360-829-9639
For additional information visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/mora or call 360-569-2211. "You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
Paradise Inn Opens May 18 - On Friday, May 18, the historic Paradise Inn opens its doors to welcome visitors for the 2012 season. Constructed in 1916, the Inn showcases a beautiful lobby and dining room featuring hand painted hanging lamps depicting park wildflowers, three huge stone fireplaces to welcome guests, 118 guest rooms, a café, and gift shop with authentic Native American arts and crafts. A full service dining room offers Northwest cuisine. The Inn is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
In addition to the Paradise Inn, the National Park Inn at Longmire is also open for visitors. The National Park Inn offers 25 guests rooms, a cozy fireside room for guests to enjoy, full service restaurant, general store and gift shop.
Both inns are operated by Mount Rainier Guest Services, Incorporated. Reservations can be made on line at www.mtrainierguestservices.com or by telephone at 360-569-2275.
Businesses in the gateway communities surrounding the park are also open daily providing lodging, meals, gifts, equipment rentals, horseback riding, fishing, special events and a variety of other needs to park visitors. Information on these businesses is available on the internet at
www.visitrainier.com, www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com or www.minerallake.com.
CURRENT STATUS AND PROJECTED OPENING DATES:
Note: These dates are projected and may be subject to change depending on conditions.
ROADS:
- Stevens Canyon Road May 25 @ 8:00 a.m.
- SR 410 to SR 123 over Cayuse Pass Open
- White River Road to Campground lot May 25
- Sunrise Road June 22 @ 8:00 a.m.
- Mowich Lake Road June 29 @ 8:00 a.m.
- Skate Creek Road (USFS Road 52) Open
- Chinook Pass May 25
- Westside Road Open to Dry Creek
Road Construction:
Stevens Canyon Road: Road construction repair work will be occurring on two sections of the Stevens Canyon Road throughout the summer. Work will be Monday through Friday until Labor Day - 20-minute delays should be anticipated at each section. After Labor Day the road will be closed to all traffic from just east of the intersection with the Paradise Valley Road to east end of the tunnel at Box Canyon for the remainder of the season, Visitors will still be able to access Box Canyon via the East Entrance. During closure period, the road will be closed to through traffic for both vehicles and cyclists.
SR 123: A micro-surfacing treatment will be applied on the roadway from MP 6.8 to MP 13.8 (Cayuse Pass) from August 6 to August 17, 2012 with 20-minute delays anticipated. In addition, replacement of a failed deep culvert at MP 10.6 will take place in mid- to late September. It is anticipated that the work will take 2-days to accomplish and due to the depth of the culvert a road closure will be necessary. A press release will be issued prior to the closure.
Longmire:
Longmire Museum: Open daily - 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. through June 30. 9:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. July 1-September 3
Longmire Wilderness Information Center: Open daily -7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
National Park Inn: Open daily year round
Cougar Rock:
Cougar Rock Campground: May 25
Cougar Rock Picnic Area: May 25
Paradise:
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center: Open daily -10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (until May 17)
Paradise Inn: May 18 to June 15 -10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
June 16 to September 2 – 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Ohanapecosh:
Ohanapecosh Campground May 25
Ohanapecosh Visitor Center May 25–May 28 -10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Fri.,
Sat. Sun., Mon.)
June 2-3 (Sat., Sun.)
June 9-September 2 – 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
White River:
White River Road to Campground lot May 25
White River Campground June 29
Sunrise:
Sunrise Lodge (snack bar & gift shop) June 29
Sunrise Visitor Center June 29
Carbon River:
Ranger Station Open year round - Call for hours -
360-829-9639
For additional information visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/mora or call 360-569-2211. "You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
Thursday, April 19, 2012
CELEBRATE NATIONAL PARK WEEK – Come Visit Mount Rainier for Free!
Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Randy King advises that April 21– 29 is designated as National Park Week across the nation. In celebration of this week, the Secretary of the Interior has announced that admission to all National Parks will be free during that time.
The theme for the week is “Picture Yourself in a National Park”, so bring your cameras and make photo memories of your visit to Mount Rainier with over 17 feet of snow on the ground at Paradise. About 10 inches is on the ground at Longmire. The snow play (sledding) area at Paradise has closed for the season and the ranger-led snow shoe walks have concluded. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are still very popular activities during the Spring season. Check with Rangers for current weather and avalanche conditions before heading out on your trip.
While many of the areas and roads at Mount Rainier still remain under winter snows, the southwest area of the park (State Route 706), including Longmire and Paradise is open.
The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise will be open daily during this period, offering visitor information, food service and gift shop. A special Junior Ranger program will be given on Saturday, April 21 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the visitor center.
The National Park Inn at Longmire is open year round providing overnight accommodations, dining and a gift shop – a great place for a getaway in early Spring. The Carbon River area is currently snow free and provides a great opportunity for hikers and bicyclists.
The road from Longmire to Paradise is closed nightly at Longmire and reopens each day after the roads have been plowed and maintained. If unusually heavy snowfall occurs or other conditions are present making the road unsafe, it may be closed to the public at any time. Through April 30 park visitors must carry tire chains in their vehicles when traveling on park roads as Spring weather in the mountains is very unpredictable and sudden snow storms may necessitate chains for safe travel.
Local businesses in the gateway communities surrounding the park are also open and ready for the beginning of the 2012 visitor season. For more information visit these websites: www.visitrainier.com, www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com, www.destinationpackwood.com, www.minerallake.com, or www.mtrainierguestservices.com
The Skate Creek Road (Forest Service Road 52) which travels along the park’s southeastern boundary east of Ashford to Packwood is expected to open to the public on Friday, April 27.
"You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
The theme for the week is “Picture Yourself in a National Park”, so bring your cameras and make photo memories of your visit to Mount Rainier with over 17 feet of snow on the ground at Paradise. About 10 inches is on the ground at Longmire. The snow play (sledding) area at Paradise has closed for the season and the ranger-led snow shoe walks have concluded. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are still very popular activities during the Spring season. Check with Rangers for current weather and avalanche conditions before heading out on your trip.
While many of the areas and roads at Mount Rainier still remain under winter snows, the southwest area of the park (State Route 706), including Longmire and Paradise is open.
The Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise will be open daily during this period, offering visitor information, food service and gift shop. A special Junior Ranger program will be given on Saturday, April 21 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the visitor center.
The National Park Inn at Longmire is open year round providing overnight accommodations, dining and a gift shop – a great place for a getaway in early Spring. The Carbon River area is currently snow free and provides a great opportunity for hikers and bicyclists.
The road from Longmire to Paradise is closed nightly at Longmire and reopens each day after the roads have been plowed and maintained. If unusually heavy snowfall occurs or other conditions are present making the road unsafe, it may be closed to the public at any time. Through April 30 park visitors must carry tire chains in their vehicles when traveling on park roads as Spring weather in the mountains is very unpredictable and sudden snow storms may necessitate chains for safe travel.
Local businesses in the gateway communities surrounding the park are also open and ready for the beginning of the 2012 visitor season. For more information visit these websites: www.visitrainier.com, www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com, www.destinationpackwood.com, www.minerallake.com, or www.mtrainierguestservices.com
The Skate Creek Road (Forest Service Road 52) which travels along the park’s southeastern boundary east of Ashford to Packwood is expected to open to the public on Friday, April 27.
"You can connect to Mount Rainier National Park through our social media pages. Join the Mount Rainier community on Facebook, find out breaking news and road status updates through Mount Rainier's Twitter feed, explore the park and behind-the-scenes operations with our videos on YouTube, and share you own photos of Mount Rainier with other visitors in the Mount Rainier Flickr group."
Friday, August 19, 2011
Historic Chinook Pass Entrance Arch Restoration Nears Completion
 |
| The Chinook Pass Entrance Arch, as drawn by the staff of the Historic American Engineering Record. |
was designed as both an entrance portal and an equestrian overpass, to convey hikers and riders on the Pacific Crest Trail. Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Rustic Style arch had deteriorated due to the elements and nearly eight decades of use. The final phase will take place on Monday, August 22, when the log stringers will be put in place.
The restoration project replaced inkind all of the deteriorated parts of the structure, including replacement of the log stringers that support the bridge deck and repair of the stone masonry abutments. Deteriorated components of the arch were removed last season, including the log stringers and masonry to prepare for replacement. Replacement logs were shaped and fitted according to National Park Service standards over the winter, in preparation for installation this summer.
The entrance will remain open, but visitors traveling on State Route 410 are advised that short traffic delays will occur as the logs are put in place.
When the project is complete, there should be no discernible changes for visitors, except the remarkable structure will be in good condition for another 80 years of service!
-NPS-
Monday, August 15, 2011
Rehabilitation of 10 miles of Stevens Canyon Road Planned in 2011, 2012 and 2013
Mount Rainier National Park News Release
Mount Rainier National Park Acting Superintendent Randy King and Federal Highway Administration, Western Federal Lands Highway Division officials announce that Phase 1 of the planned rehabilitation of Stevens Canyon Road was awarded to MidMountain Contractors, Inc. of Kirkland, WA for $2,322,367.90 with a Notice to Proceed issued for project start on Monday, August 15, 2011 and a contract completion date of October 30, 2011.
The National Park Service prepared an Environmental Assessment and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which was approved by the Pacific West Regional Director on July 1, 2010. The FONSI calls for the resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation of the Stevens Canyon Road and other related facilities, including bridges, tunnels, culverts, guard walls, retaining walls, turnouts and the short Wonderland Trail section adjacent to Reflection Lake. The improvements will occur along two segments of the road, totaling 10.09 miles of the 19 mile road. Segment 1 begins at the Nisqually Paradise Road intersection and extends east for 4.83 miles to the Stevens Creek Bridge. Segment 4 begins at the Backbone Ridge Viaduct (just east of the Backbone Ridge Viewpoint) and continues for 5.26 miles to the intersection with Washington State Route (SR) 123.
Ten sites in Segment 1 and 35 sites in Segment 4 have been identified as needing subsurface stabilization to halt roadway embankment creep that has resulted in surface tension cracks and appreciable horizontal and vertical displacement. Two of the 10 sites in Segment 1 require full roadway embankment replacement down to 22 foot depth and retaining/guard wall replacements. Most of the 35 sites in Segment 4 require either ¾- width or full road embankment replacement down to 5 foot depth, some of which require retaining/guard wall replacements.
Due to the scope of the extensive roadway embankment stabilization efforts, it will be necessary to close the east end (Segment 4) of Stevens Canyon Road from the gate located just west of the Grove of the Patriarchs (see attached map) to just east of the popular Backbone Ridge Viewpoint from September 6, 2011 to the end of the contract period on October 30, 2011. Pending weather conditions, the roadway will likely be shut down for the winter season upon project completion. The contractor will also be doing subsurface compaction grouting in both road segments to stabilize the roadway in 2011. Visitors will be able to access the Reflection Lakes area, Box Canyon and Backbone Ridge Viewpoint area and adjacent trailheads from the west during the 2011closure period.
Under a separate contract yet to be advertised, Phase 2 will take place during the 2012 and 2013 seasons, which will involve subsurface stabilization work on the west end (Segment 1) and require closure from just east of the Paradise Valley Road to the Box Canyon Area immediately following Labor Day 2012 to when the road is shut down for the winter. The contractor will also be repairing the tunnel walls at milepost 6.9 and 8.5 during the closure period. During this period, visitors will be able to access up to the Box Canyon area from the east. From approximately June 2012 to just before Labor Day 2012 the contractor will be conducting work in both segments, at which time visitors should anticipate 20 minute delays Mondays through Fridays.
During the 2013 season, the contractor will focus on drainage improvements, repair/stabilization and reconstruction of historic rock retaining walls, milling/recycling the asphalt surface as road base; and resurfacing with new hot-mix asphalt which will be accomplished while the roadway is open to the public. At this time visitors should again anticipate 20 minute delays Mondays through Fridays until project completion estimated in September, 2013.
Stevens Canyon Road connects the east and west side of the park, extending for 19 miles from SR 123 at the east end to intersection with the Nisqually to Paradise Road at the west end, two miles south of Paradise. During the 2011 & 2012 closure periods, visitors are encouraged to access the Paradise area from the southwest via the Nisqually Entrance at east end of SR 706. Visitors traveling from the east via SR 410, SR 123, and/or US 12 who wish to visit the Paradise area have two detour options: Via Gifford Pinchot National Forest Service Road 52 (Skate Creek Road) beginning on US 12 in Packwood and ending on SR 706 east of Ashford; or the longer route via SR 7 beginning in Morton on US 12 and ending on SR 706 at Elbe (see attached map).
While the construction and associated closures and traffic delays present an inconvenience, the rehabilitation work will not only improve the driving surface of the roadway, but ensure its longevity.
Updated information on this project may be obtained by calling Mount Rainier National Park at 360-569-2166. Information on this project, as well as general park information, is also available on Mount Rainier National Park’s website www.nps.gov/mora/parknews/newsreleases.htm.
###
NOTE: Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most cell phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that manages 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass conditions, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
-NPS-
Mount Rainier National Park Acting Superintendent Randy King and Federal Highway Administration, Western Federal Lands Highway Division officials announce that Phase 1 of the planned rehabilitation of Stevens Canyon Road was awarded to MidMountain Contractors, Inc. of Kirkland, WA for $2,322,367.90 with a Notice to Proceed issued for project start on Monday, August 15, 2011 and a contract completion date of October 30, 2011.
The National Park Service prepared an Environmental Assessment and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), which was approved by the Pacific West Regional Director on July 1, 2010. The FONSI calls for the resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation of the Stevens Canyon Road and other related facilities, including bridges, tunnels, culverts, guard walls, retaining walls, turnouts and the short Wonderland Trail section adjacent to Reflection Lake. The improvements will occur along two segments of the road, totaling 10.09 miles of the 19 mile road. Segment 1 begins at the Nisqually Paradise Road intersection and extends east for 4.83 miles to the Stevens Creek Bridge. Segment 4 begins at the Backbone Ridge Viaduct (just east of the Backbone Ridge Viewpoint) and continues for 5.26 miles to the intersection with Washington State Route (SR) 123.
Ten sites in Segment 1 and 35 sites in Segment 4 have been identified as needing subsurface stabilization to halt roadway embankment creep that has resulted in surface tension cracks and appreciable horizontal and vertical displacement. Two of the 10 sites in Segment 1 require full roadway embankment replacement down to 22 foot depth and retaining/guard wall replacements. Most of the 35 sites in Segment 4 require either ¾- width or full road embankment replacement down to 5 foot depth, some of which require retaining/guard wall replacements.
Due to the scope of the extensive roadway embankment stabilization efforts, it will be necessary to close the east end (Segment 4) of Stevens Canyon Road from the gate located just west of the Grove of the Patriarchs (see attached map) to just east of the popular Backbone Ridge Viewpoint from September 6, 2011 to the end of the contract period on October 30, 2011. Pending weather conditions, the roadway will likely be shut down for the winter season upon project completion. The contractor will also be doing subsurface compaction grouting in both road segments to stabilize the roadway in 2011. Visitors will be able to access the Reflection Lakes area, Box Canyon and Backbone Ridge Viewpoint area and adjacent trailheads from the west during the 2011closure period.
Under a separate contract yet to be advertised, Phase 2 will take place during the 2012 and 2013 seasons, which will involve subsurface stabilization work on the west end (Segment 1) and require closure from just east of the Paradise Valley Road to the Box Canyon Area immediately following Labor Day 2012 to when the road is shut down for the winter. The contractor will also be repairing the tunnel walls at milepost 6.9 and 8.5 during the closure period. During this period, visitors will be able to access up to the Box Canyon area from the east. From approximately June 2012 to just before Labor Day 2012 the contractor will be conducting work in both segments, at which time visitors should anticipate 20 minute delays Mondays through Fridays.
During the 2013 season, the contractor will focus on drainage improvements, repair/stabilization and reconstruction of historic rock retaining walls, milling/recycling the asphalt surface as road base; and resurfacing with new hot-mix asphalt which will be accomplished while the roadway is open to the public. At this time visitors should again anticipate 20 minute delays Mondays through Fridays until project completion estimated in September, 2013.
Stevens Canyon Road connects the east and west side of the park, extending for 19 miles from SR 123 at the east end to intersection with the Nisqually to Paradise Road at the west end, two miles south of Paradise. During the 2011 & 2012 closure periods, visitors are encouraged to access the Paradise area from the southwest via the Nisqually Entrance at east end of SR 706. Visitors traveling from the east via SR 410, SR 123, and/or US 12 who wish to visit the Paradise area have two detour options: Via Gifford Pinchot National Forest Service Road 52 (Skate Creek Road) beginning on US 12 in Packwood and ending on SR 706 east of Ashford; or the longer route via SR 7 beginning in Morton on US 12 and ending on SR 706 at Elbe (see attached map).
While the construction and associated closures and traffic delays present an inconvenience, the rehabilitation work will not only improve the driving surface of the roadway, but ensure its longevity.
Updated information on this project may be obtained by calling Mount Rainier National Park at 360-569-2166. Information on this project, as well as general park information, is also available on Mount Rainier National Park’s website www.nps.gov/mora/parknews/newsreleases.htm.
###
NOTE: Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most cell phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that manages 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass conditions, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
-NPS-
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Night Sky Programs Aug 5 and Beyond!
Star Party and Night Skies Program at Paradise: 9:00 PM, Friday August 5, 2011.
Families and individuals of all ages are invited to the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park for a special program on Friday, August 5. The event starts at 9:00 PM in the lobby of the Paradise Inn with a short presentation about the National Park Service “Night Skies” program. The National Park Service has come to embrace night skies as one of the many scenic vistas the agency is a steward of. It is essential to keeping a park whole and touches on almost every aspect that is important to us - from
sustainability to stargazers, and animals to ancient ruins.
At 9:45 PM there will be outdoor star gazing in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center with Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS) volunteers and their telescopes. Astronomy Society volunteers will also assist with special children's astronomy activities. All ages will be able to make astronomy devices called "star finders."
If weather makes star gazing difficult, the party will move inside the Paradise Inn lobby for a 45-minute film about the Milky Way galaxy.
Night Sky viewing at the park through Labor Day
Visitors are also invited to join Mount Rainier volunteer astronomer-interpreter Don West-Wilke for night sky viewing Thursdays through Sundays through Labor Day. Don and his unique telescope will help visitors see the night sky (weather permitting) beginning at 10 PM at the following park locations:
Thursdays: Longmire Plaza in front of the National Park Inn
Fridays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
Saturdays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
Sundays: Backbone Ridge pull-out along Steven's Canyon Road
Mondays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
If you have questions please contact Park Ranger Curt Jacquot at (360) 569-2211, extension 6577.
Information about the Tacoma Astronomy Society is found online at: http://www.tas-online.org/
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
-NPS-
Families and individuals of all ages are invited to the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park for a special program on Friday, August 5. The event starts at 9:00 PM in the lobby of the Paradise Inn with a short presentation about the National Park Service “Night Skies” program. The National Park Service has come to embrace night skies as one of the many scenic vistas the agency is a steward of. It is essential to keeping a park whole and touches on almost every aspect that is important to us - from
sustainability to stargazers, and animals to ancient ruins.
At 9:45 PM there will be outdoor star gazing in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center with Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS) volunteers and their telescopes. Astronomy Society volunteers will also assist with special children's astronomy activities. All ages will be able to make astronomy devices called "star finders."
If weather makes star gazing difficult, the party will move inside the Paradise Inn lobby for a 45-minute film about the Milky Way galaxy.
Night Sky viewing at the park through Labor Day
Visitors are also invited to join Mount Rainier volunteer astronomer-interpreter Don West-Wilke for night sky viewing Thursdays through Sundays through Labor Day. Don and his unique telescope will help visitors see the night sky (weather permitting) beginning at 10 PM at the following park locations:
Thursdays: Longmire Plaza in front of the National Park Inn
Fridays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
Saturdays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
Sundays: Backbone Ridge pull-out along Steven's Canyon Road
Mondays: Plaza in front of the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center
If you have questions please contact Park Ranger Curt Jacquot at (360) 569-2211, extension 6577.
Information about the Tacoma Astronomy Society is found online at: http://www.tas-online.org/
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
-NPS-
Thursday, July 21, 2011
MOUNT RAINIER NEWS UPDATES
Snow continues to melt slowly from the slopes of Mount Rainier as cool temperatures prevail. Many trails park-wide are still under snow. The current snowline is around 4,000 feet. The park experienced a very heavy snowfall this past winter (2010-2011) and melt-out is not expected until sometime in August. Winter-like conditions exist in the backcountry. Hikers should check the park’s webpage (www.nps.gov/mora) for current trail conditions before heading out for a trip.
Some wildflowers are blooming along park roadsides as the snow recedes, but given the current snowpack, the best estimates for wildflower blooms are mid-August!
Mowich Lake Road Opening
The Mowich Lake Road in the northwest corner of the park will open to the public on Friday, July 22. In average snow years, this road would have opened on the 4th of July weekend. Three to four feet of snow remain in the area, but the parking lot is clear and some picnic tables are melted out.
An Evening With Renowned Mountaineer Dee Molenaar
Join one of the legends of mountain climbing for two special programs at Mount Rainier National Park on August 2, 2011. Mountaineer and author of “The Challenge of Mount Rainier”, Dee Molenaar will speak at the Jackson Visitor Center at 3:45 p.m. and at the Paradise Inn at 9:00 p.m.
Dee Molenaar was a park ranger and mountain guide at Mount Rainier and has climbed peaks throughout the western U.S. and Canada, Alaska, the Alps, and the Himalayas. He participated in major expeditions to Mount St. Elias in Alaska in 1946 and in the ill-fated 1953 American expedition to K2 in the Karakoram Himalaya. His artwork and maps have appeared in books and art shows all over the world. His book “The Challenge of Mount Rainier”, considered the definitive work on the climbing history of Mount Rainier, is in its ninth printing. At age 91 he continues to work on art and map projects, and writing and lecturing about mountaineering and geology.
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
Volunteers Wanted to Participate in Sunrise Archaeological Dig
Mount Rainier has been used by Native American people for thousands of years. To better document the mountain’s archaeological record, Mount Rainier National Park is working with Central Washington University’s archaeology field school. Under the direction of Dr. Patrick McCutcheon, the field school will be conducting an excavation in the Sunrise area to improve our understanding of the long-term human use of Mount Rainier’s higher elevation landscapes.
Volunteers will get a guided tour of the site and have the opportunity to shadow a field school student working on the excavation. Volunteers will join in the daily operations, assisting with sieving excavated sediments, carrying soil and measuring sediment volume. Participants will also have the opportunity to discover and learn about the artifacts and their uses.
Opportunities are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 11:30 am during the first three weeks in August. The number of participants is limited each day to six people ages 16 and above. Reservations may be made in person at the Sunrise Visitor Center or by calling 360-663-2425.
RAMROD BICYCLE RIDE – Thursday, July 28, 2011
On Thursday, July 28, the Redmond Cycling Club will be conducting their organized recreational bicycle ride called RAMROD (Ride Around Mount Rainier in One Day). Up to 800 cyclists will begin their ride in Enumclaw, Washington traveling through Eatonville, Elbe and Ashford. After entering the park at the Nisqually Entrance, they will proceed up the Paradise Road to the junction with the Stevens Canyon Road. The route continues east on Stevens Canyon Road to State Route 123 and north on State Route 123 over Cayuse Pass. The last leg of the ride follows State Route 410 westbound for a return to Enumclaw. This is the 28th year that RAMROD has been conducted in the park.
Motorists coming to the park that day should expect some traffic delays, congestion around designated checkpoints and support areas, and long lines of bicyclists sharing the roadway.
Park roads and facilities will remain open to the general public while the one-day ride is being conducted. Drivers and pedestrians are cautioned that bicyclists in large numbers will be sharing park roadways including the road east from Nisqually Entrance, Stevens Canyon Road, SR 123 and State Route 410 throughout the day. Slow traffic along the ride route should be expected, as road shoulders are narrow or non-existent along many sections. Drivers may encounter bicyclists walking their bikes up the long grade or riding slowly to maintain control over sections of the roadway. The park asks motorists to be courteous, use extra care when passing bicyclists, and to do so only when there is sufficient road clearance and an unimpeded line of sight to do so safely.
-NPS-
Some wildflowers are blooming along park roadsides as the snow recedes, but given the current snowpack, the best estimates for wildflower blooms are mid-August!
Mowich Lake Road Opening
The Mowich Lake Road in the northwest corner of the park will open to the public on Friday, July 22. In average snow years, this road would have opened on the 4th of July weekend. Three to four feet of snow remain in the area, but the parking lot is clear and some picnic tables are melted out.
An Evening With Renowned Mountaineer Dee Molenaar
Join one of the legends of mountain climbing for two special programs at Mount Rainier National Park on August 2, 2011. Mountaineer and author of “The Challenge of Mount Rainier”, Dee Molenaar will speak at the Jackson Visitor Center at 3:45 p.m. and at the Paradise Inn at 9:00 p.m.
Dee Molenaar was a park ranger and mountain guide at Mount Rainier and has climbed peaks throughout the western U.S. and Canada, Alaska, the Alps, and the Himalayas. He participated in major expeditions to Mount St. Elias in Alaska in 1946 and in the ill-fated 1953 American expedition to K2 in the Karakoram Himalaya. His artwork and maps have appeared in books and art shows all over the world. His book “The Challenge of Mount Rainier”, considered the definitive work on the climbing history of Mount Rainier, is in its ninth printing. At age 91 he continues to work on art and map projects, and writing and lecturing about mountaineering and geology.
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
Volunteers Wanted to Participate in Sunrise Archaeological Dig
Mount Rainier has been used by Native American people for thousands of years. To better document the mountain’s archaeological record, Mount Rainier National Park is working with Central Washington University’s archaeology field school. Under the direction of Dr. Patrick McCutcheon, the field school will be conducting an excavation in the Sunrise area to improve our understanding of the long-term human use of Mount Rainier’s higher elevation landscapes.
Volunteers will get a guided tour of the site and have the opportunity to shadow a field school student working on the excavation. Volunteers will join in the daily operations, assisting with sieving excavated sediments, carrying soil and measuring sediment volume. Participants will also have the opportunity to discover and learn about the artifacts and their uses.
Opportunities are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 11:30 am during the first three weeks in August. The number of participants is limited each day to six people ages 16 and above. Reservations may be made in person at the Sunrise Visitor Center or by calling 360-663-2425.
RAMROD BICYCLE RIDE – Thursday, July 28, 2011
On Thursday, July 28, the Redmond Cycling Club will be conducting their organized recreational bicycle ride called RAMROD (Ride Around Mount Rainier in One Day). Up to 800 cyclists will begin their ride in Enumclaw, Washington traveling through Eatonville, Elbe and Ashford. After entering the park at the Nisqually Entrance, they will proceed up the Paradise Road to the junction with the Stevens Canyon Road. The route continues east on Stevens Canyon Road to State Route 123 and north on State Route 123 over Cayuse Pass. The last leg of the ride follows State Route 410 westbound for a return to Enumclaw. This is the 28th year that RAMROD has been conducted in the park.
Motorists coming to the park that day should expect some traffic delays, congestion around designated checkpoints and support areas, and long lines of bicyclists sharing the roadway.
Park roads and facilities will remain open to the general public while the one-day ride is being conducted. Drivers and pedestrians are cautioned that bicyclists in large numbers will be sharing park roadways including the road east from Nisqually Entrance, Stevens Canyon Road, SR 123 and State Route 410 throughout the day. Slow traffic along the ride route should be expected, as road shoulders are narrow or non-existent along many sections. Drivers may encounter bicyclists walking their bikes up the long grade or riding slowly to maintain control over sections of the roadway. The park asks motorists to be courteous, use extra care when passing bicyclists, and to do so only when there is sufficient road clearance and an unimpeded line of sight to do so safely.
-NPS-
Monday, July 18, 2011
NEW WEBCAM SHOWS VIEW FROM CAMP MUIR
Mount Rainier National Park is excited to announce that a new webcam at
Camp Muir is now fully operational and available online to the public.
This is a unique location for a webcam as it is certainly the highest
webcam in Washington State and one of the most remote in the United States.
This project was a cooperative effort between the National Park Service,
the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center, and Dan Howlett of NoHow, Inc.
The design and installation of this webcam involved some difficult
technical challenges, for which Dan “Howie” Howlett created a solution on
the backbone of the park’s existing weather telemetry equipment. Think of
the webcam image as another weather parameter like temperature or wind
speed. The image is transmitted down in the same data bursts as the
weather information. After the initial installation by climbing ranger
Stefan Lofgren in mid-May, several unanticipated issues were hammered out.
Mark Moore of the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center helped
troubleshoot some of these problems, coordinate the new data acquisition,
and dissemination.
The images from Camp Muir are expected to be very popular and broadly used
by a wide array of interested groups. Climbers and hikers into Mount
Rainier alpine zones, of course, will be able to use the webcam to see
where the tops of the clouds are and will discover that often when it is
rainy at Paradise or lower down in the valley, it may be sunny and warm at
Muir!
Weather forecasting centers such as the National Weather Service will also
be able to use the images and data for forecasting purposes both for the
public and for pilots. There are scientific opportunities associated with
the images as well regarding snowmelt, glacier mass-balance, and air
quality, to name a few.
As extraordinary as the images are, there are limits to how often we will
see clear images. It will be common when there are clouds and/or blowing
snow that the camera will rime and the images will show only white. This
is expected to be the case for much of the winter. There is not enough
power at Camp Muir to operate any heating elements that could keep the
camera shedding rime ice. As this is a newly developed application of
existing technology, we may encounter more unanticipated challenges.
Please be patient as you notice interruptions in service or problems with
the images. We will also be immediately aware and try to fix it as soon as
practicable.
Currently, the image is set to a resolution of 1024 x 786 and it is
slightly pixelated. We endeavor to increase the resolution so that greater
detail can be shown. The camera is fixed and cannot be moved remotely, so
we must actually physically move the camera to change its view. Another
item on the wish list would be to install a remotely moveable camera.
You can access the image on Mount Rainier’s webpage:
http://www.nps.gov/mora or the direct address of the image is:
http://www.nps.gov/webcams-mora/muir.jpg
-NPS-
Camp Muir is now fully operational and available online to the public.
This is a unique location for a webcam as it is certainly the highest
webcam in Washington State and one of the most remote in the United States.
This project was a cooperative effort between the National Park Service,
the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center, and Dan Howlett of NoHow, Inc.
The design and installation of this webcam involved some difficult
technical challenges, for which Dan “Howie” Howlett created a solution on
the backbone of the park’s existing weather telemetry equipment. Think of
the webcam image as another weather parameter like temperature or wind
speed. The image is transmitted down in the same data bursts as the
weather information. After the initial installation by climbing ranger
Stefan Lofgren in mid-May, several unanticipated issues were hammered out.
Mark Moore of the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center helped
troubleshoot some of these problems, coordinate the new data acquisition,
and dissemination.
The images from Camp Muir are expected to be very popular and broadly used
by a wide array of interested groups. Climbers and hikers into Mount
Rainier alpine zones, of course, will be able to use the webcam to see
where the tops of the clouds are and will discover that often when it is
rainy at Paradise or lower down in the valley, it may be sunny and warm at
Muir!
Weather forecasting centers such as the National Weather Service will also
be able to use the images and data for forecasting purposes both for the
public and for pilots. There are scientific opportunities associated with
the images as well regarding snowmelt, glacier mass-balance, and air
quality, to name a few.
As extraordinary as the images are, there are limits to how often we will
see clear images. It will be common when there are clouds and/or blowing
snow that the camera will rime and the images will show only white. This
is expected to be the case for much of the winter. There is not enough
power at Camp Muir to operate any heating elements that could keep the
camera shedding rime ice. As this is a newly developed application of
existing technology, we may encounter more unanticipated challenges.
Please be patient as you notice interruptions in service or problems with
the images. We will also be immediately aware and try to fix it as soon as
practicable.
Currently, the image is set to a resolution of 1024 x 786 and it is
slightly pixelated. We endeavor to increase the resolution so that greater
detail can be shown. The camera is fixed and cannot be moved remotely, so
we must actually physically move the camera to change its view. Another
item on the wish list would be to install a remotely moveable camera.
You can access the image on Mount Rainier’s webpage:
http://www.nps.gov/mora or the direct address of the image is:
http://www.nps.gov/webcams-mora/muir.jpg
-NPS-
Work Begins This Week to Implement the Carbon River Access Management Plan in Mount Rainier National Park.
In response to flood damage to the Carbon River Road and Ipsut CreekCampground following the major November 2006 flood event and subsequent
flood events as recent as last winter, the Carbon River Access Management
Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was
signed by the Pacific West Regional Director on February 3, 2011.
The selected Preferred Alternative #2 states that the Carbon River Road
would be reopened to private vehicles as far as a turnaround/drop-off at
the Old Mine Trailhead, 1.2 miles from the park entrance. Between the Old
Mine Trailhead and Ipsut Creek Campground, intact sections of the road
would be used as an improved trail and new improved trail sections would
be constructed through or around flood damaged sections.
Eventually the improved trail will provide sufficient width and sight
distance to safely accommodate hikers and bicyclists, and meet Universal
Access guidelines. Existing road culverts will eventually be removed and
up to 9 wood trail bridges installed to improve fish passage. The Ipsut
Creek Campground will be converted to a hike-in/bike-in backcountry camp
with a minimum of 15 individual sites and 3 group sites. The existing
vault toilets will be replaced with composting toilets and the former
Ipsut trailhead parking area will be recontoured and the historic Ipsut
Patrol Cabin will be reconstructed near the trailhead. At the Carbon River
entrance area, an entrance archway will be constructed, the existing
ranger station will be replaced with a new fee station/visitor contact
office, and additional parking will eventually be provided at the entrance
and in the former maintenance compound located 1/4-mile up the road.
This project will be multi-phased and time to complete is solely dependent
upon funding. Work beginning this Summer/Fall will include: Construction
of up to 5 log flood protection structures within the Carbon River
floodplain adjacent to the Carbon River Entrance Area and the former
maintenance compound; placement of log-span check dams in the damaged
Falls Creek area to protect the adjacent unimproved trail and location for
the future improved trail from future flooding; remove existing vault
toilets and install new composting toilets (likely this Fall); general
decommissioning of portions of the Ipsut Campground for downsizing (i.e.
remove fire grates, parking barriers, etc.); install bike racks and
bear-proof food boxes in the downsized campground; begin to clear/widen
unimproved trail in the Falls Creek area; begin construction of new trail
bridges; and remove dysfunctional culverts along the length of the old
roadway.
Visitors will be able to access the Carbon River area, continuing to park
in the limited parking area immediately inside the entrance and hike/bike
to the Ipsut Creek Campground. Biking is only permitted on the unimproved
trail up to the Ipsut Creek Campground. Please be aware of the
construction work going on in the area (during weekdays) and wait for
permission from the workers when it is safe to pass through the
construction zone. Bikers, please be particularly aware of other bikers
and hikers using the unimproved and narrow trail, especially in areas of
restricted sight distance.
-NPS-
flood events as recent as last winter, the Carbon River Access Management
Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was
signed by the Pacific West Regional Director on February 3, 2011.
The selected Preferred Alternative #2 states that the Carbon River Road
would be reopened to private vehicles as far as a turnaround/drop-off at
the Old Mine Trailhead, 1.2 miles from the park entrance. Between the Old
Mine Trailhead and Ipsut Creek Campground, intact sections of the road
would be used as an improved trail and new improved trail sections would
be constructed through or around flood damaged sections.
Eventually the improved trail will provide sufficient width and sight
distance to safely accommodate hikers and bicyclists, and meet Universal
Access guidelines. Existing road culverts will eventually be removed and
up to 9 wood trail bridges installed to improve fish passage. The Ipsut
Creek Campground will be converted to a hike-in/bike-in backcountry camp
with a minimum of 15 individual sites and 3 group sites. The existing
vault toilets will be replaced with composting toilets and the former
Ipsut trailhead parking area will be recontoured and the historic Ipsut
Patrol Cabin will be reconstructed near the trailhead. At the Carbon River
entrance area, an entrance archway will be constructed, the existing
ranger station will be replaced with a new fee station/visitor contact
office, and additional parking will eventually be provided at the entrance
and in the former maintenance compound located 1/4-mile up the road.
This project will be multi-phased and time to complete is solely dependent
upon funding. Work beginning this Summer/Fall will include: Construction
of up to 5 log flood protection structures within the Carbon River
floodplain adjacent to the Carbon River Entrance Area and the former
maintenance compound; placement of log-span check dams in the damaged
Falls Creek area to protect the adjacent unimproved trail and location for
the future improved trail from future flooding; remove existing vault
toilets and install new composting toilets (likely this Fall); general
decommissioning of portions of the Ipsut Campground for downsizing (i.e.
remove fire grates, parking barriers, etc.); install bike racks and
bear-proof food boxes in the downsized campground; begin to clear/widen
unimproved trail in the Falls Creek area; begin construction of new trail
bridges; and remove dysfunctional culverts along the length of the old
roadway.
Visitors will be able to access the Carbon River area, continuing to park
in the limited parking area immediately inside the entrance and hike/bike
to the Ipsut Creek Campground. Biking is only permitted on the unimproved
trail up to the Ipsut Creek Campground. Please be aware of the
construction work going on in the area (during weekdays) and wait for
permission from the workers when it is safe to pass through the
construction zone. Bikers, please be particularly aware of other bikers
and hikers using the unimproved and narrow trail, especially in areas of
restricted sight distance.
-NPS-
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Night Skies Program and Star Gazing at Mt Rainier-Paradise this Friday
Contact: Curt Jacquot, West Area Interpreter, (360) 569-2211 ext. 6577
Star Party and Night Skies Program at Paradise: 9:00 PM, Friday July 22,
2011
Families and individuals of all ages are invited to the Paradise area of
Mount Rainier National Park for a special program on Friday, July 22.. The
event starts at 9:00 PM in the lobby of the Paradise Inn with a short
presentation about the National Park Service “Night Skies” program. The
National Park Service has come to embrace night skies as one of the many
scenic vistas the agency is a steward of. It is essential to keeping a park
whole and touches on almost every aspect that is important to us - from
sustainability to stargazers, and animals to ancient ruins.
At 9:45 PM there will be outdoor star gazing in front of the Paradise
Jackson Visitor Center with Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS) volunteers
and their telescopes. Astronomy Society volunteers will also assist with
special children's astronomy activities. All ages will be able to make
astronomy devices called "star finders."
If weather makes star gazing difficult, the party will move inside the
Paradise Inn lobby for star finder making and a 45-minute film about the
Milky Way galaxy.
If you have questions please contact Park Ranger Curt Jacquot at (360)
569-2211, extension 6577.
Information about the Tacoma Astronomy Society is found online at:
http://www.tas-online.org/
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling
360-569-2211.
-NPS-
Star Party and Night Skies Program at Paradise: 9:00 PM, Friday July 22,
2011
Families and individuals of all ages are invited to the Paradise area of
Mount Rainier National Park for a special program on Friday, July 22.. The
event starts at 9:00 PM in the lobby of the Paradise Inn with a short
presentation about the National Park Service “Night Skies” program. The
National Park Service has come to embrace night skies as one of the many
scenic vistas the agency is a steward of. It is essential to keeping a park
whole and touches on almost every aspect that is important to us - from
sustainability to stargazers, and animals to ancient ruins.
At 9:45 PM there will be outdoor star gazing in front of the Paradise
Jackson Visitor Center with Tacoma Astronomical Society (TAS) volunteers
and their telescopes. Astronomy Society volunteers will also assist with
special children's astronomy activities. All ages will be able to make
astronomy devices called "star finders."
If weather makes star gazing difficult, the party will move inside the
Paradise Inn lobby for star finder making and a 45-minute film about the
Milky Way galaxy.
If you have questions please contact Park Ranger Curt Jacquot at (360)
569-2211, extension 6577.
Information about the Tacoma Astronomy Society is found online at:
http://www.tas-online.org/
General park information is available at www.nps.gov/mora or by calling
360-569-2211.
-NPS-
Friday, July 8, 2011
“Keep Wildlife Wild Day” at Mount Rainier
“Keep Wildlife Wild Day” at Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier National Park will host its third annual Keep Wildlife Wild
Day on August 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in an effort to educate
visitors on wildlife and the impacts we have on them. The day will focus
on protection and education to keep Mount Rainier’s wildlife wild.
The park will celebrate the day with a number of short educational programs
in the Paradise area. Interpretive Rangers and Biologists will present
talks on native wildlife throughout the day. Activities will be provided
for children to explore the interesting world of wildlife through artistic
expression.
Join Mount Rainier in helping to keep wildlife wild!
For more information, or to sign up to volunteer, contact
Sarah_Yates@nps.gov.
More information on the “Keep Wildlife Wild” program can be found at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/keep-wildlife-wild.htm.
For more information on volunteering for the park, visit Mount Rainier’s
volunteer website at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/supportyourpark/volunteer.htm
Contact: Sarah Yates, 360-569-6774
Mount Rainier National Park will host its third annual Keep Wildlife Wild
Day on August 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in an effort to educate
visitors on wildlife and the impacts we have on them. The day will focus
on protection and education to keep Mount Rainier’s wildlife wild.
The park will celebrate the day with a number of short educational programs
in the Paradise area. Interpretive Rangers and Biologists will present
talks on native wildlife throughout the day. Activities will be provided
for children to explore the interesting world of wildlife through artistic
expression.
Join Mount Rainier in helping to keep wildlife wild!
For more information, or to sign up to volunteer, contact
Sarah_Yates@nps.gov.
More information on the “Keep Wildlife Wild” program can be found at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/keep-wildlife-wild.htm.
For more information on volunteering for the park, visit Mount Rainier’s
volunteer website at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/supportyourpark/volunteer.htm
Contact: Sarah Yates, 360-569-6774
Friday, June 17, 2011
Delayed opening of the road to Sunrise until at least July 8...
For Immediate Release
Contact: Donna Rahier, 360-569-6501
Deep Snow Conditions Will Delay Opening of Sunrise Area and the White River
Campground; Entrance Fees Waived on June 21
Deep and persistent snow levels at higher elevations on Mount Rainier will delay the opening of the road to Sunrise until at least July 8. Park road crews, using bulldozers and a rotary snow blower, are working daily to remove snow from the road and expect to reach the parking area at Sunrise early next week. Once access is available, additional park and Washington Conservation Corps crews will be brought into the area to shovel out buildings and activate the power and water systems.
Since July 1, 2010, a total of 907 inches of snow have fallen at Paradise. The record for the park is 1,122 of snowfall during the 1971-72 winter season. Cool and wet temperatures have persisted into June, delaying snow melt in the upper elevations and slowing snow removal operations that began in March. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) road crews have faced similar deep snow conditions on Highway 410, delaying the opening of Chinook Pass on the east side of the park. WSDOT’s projected opening for Chinook Pass is June 23 at 10:00 AM.
Persistent snow conditions will also delay the opening of the White River Campground until July 1. The road to the campground is open and accessible. Mowich Road opening operations will be delayed until snow removal at Paradise and Sunrise are completed. All other park roads and areas are open. Travelers are advised to check the park’s website prior to a visit to get updated information on road and trail conditions, services and activities. Mount Rainier National Park’s website is at: www.nps.gov/mora. Attached are recent photos of current snow conditions at Sunrise.
Other photos are posted on the park website.
Please check the WSDOT website, www.wsdot.wa.gov, for current updates on all highway and pass conditions in Washington State.
June 21 is a FEE FREE DAY at Mount Rainier!
June 21 marks the first day of summer and the next FEE FREE DAY at Mount Rainier National Park and all other national parks charging entrance fees across the nation. This is one of 17 fee free days that have been designated this year. Other remaining fee free periods are September 24 (National Public Lands Day), and November 11-13 (Veteran's Day Weekend).
Fee free days serve to encourage Americans to visit and appreciate their national parks.
-NPS-
Contact: Donna Rahier, 360-569-6501
Deep Snow Conditions Will Delay Opening of Sunrise Area and the White River
Campground; Entrance Fees Waived on June 21
Deep and persistent snow levels at higher elevations on Mount Rainier will delay the opening of the road to Sunrise until at least July 8. Park road crews, using bulldozers and a rotary snow blower, are working daily to remove snow from the road and expect to reach the parking area at Sunrise early next week. Once access is available, additional park and Washington Conservation Corps crews will be brought into the area to shovel out buildings and activate the power and water systems.
Since July 1, 2010, a total of 907 inches of snow have fallen at Paradise. The record for the park is 1,122 of snowfall during the 1971-72 winter season. Cool and wet temperatures have persisted into June, delaying snow melt in the upper elevations and slowing snow removal operations that began in March. Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) road crews have faced similar deep snow conditions on Highway 410, delaying the opening of Chinook Pass on the east side of the park. WSDOT’s projected opening for Chinook Pass is June 23 at 10:00 AM.
Persistent snow conditions will also delay the opening of the White River Campground until July 1. The road to the campground is open and accessible. Mowich Road opening operations will be delayed until snow removal at Paradise and Sunrise are completed. All other park roads and areas are open. Travelers are advised to check the park’s website prior to a visit to get updated information on road and trail conditions, services and activities. Mount Rainier National Park’s website is at: www.nps.gov/mora. Attached are recent photos of current snow conditions at Sunrise.
Other photos are posted on the park website.
Please check the WSDOT website, www.wsdot.wa.gov, for current updates on all highway and pass conditions in Washington State.
June 21 is a FEE FREE DAY at Mount Rainier!
June 21 marks the first day of summer and the next FEE FREE DAY at Mount Rainier National Park and all other national parks charging entrance fees across the nation. This is one of 17 fee free days that have been designated this year. Other remaining fee free periods are September 24 (National Public Lands Day), and November 11-13 (Veteran's Day Weekend).
Fee free days serve to encourage Americans to visit and appreciate their national parks.
-NPS-
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
We'll miss you Dave!
DENVER – Intermountain Regional Director John Wessels today announced that
Mount Rainier Superintendent David Uberuaga has been named Superintendent
of Grand Canyon National Park. Uberuaga will begin his duties in mid-July.
“I am extremely pleased that we have someone of Dave’s character,
experience and ability at Grand Canyon National Park,” Wessels said. “He
has all the skills necessary to take on the many complex issues that are
part of managing a park the size and stature of Grand Canyon.”
Uberuaga is currently the Superintendent of Mount Rainier National Park in
Washington state, a post he has held for the past 9 years. During that
time he served for more than a year as Acting Superintendent of Yosemite
National Park. He has spent 37 years in federal service and has been with
the National Park Service since 1984.
“I am humbled to have been selected as Superintendent at Grand Canyon,”
Uberuaga said. “I look forward to working with the park staff, the many
stakeholders who care so deeply about the park, and the local community.
Grand Canyon National Park is a truly spectacular place, one that has
inspired people around the world.”
Uberuaga has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Masters in
Business Administration from the University of Idaho. Among his many
awards, he is the recipient of the National Parks Conservation
Association’s Stehpen Tyng Mather Award for promoting environmental
preservation in parks; the Department of Interior Cooperative Conservation
Award; and the Department of Interior Superior Service Award. In 2008, he
was named Federal Land Manger of the year by the Department of Interior.
Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, he and his wife Barbara have three grown
children, Mark, Michelle and Amy.
---NPS---
Mount Rainier Superintendent David Uberuaga has been named Superintendent
of Grand Canyon National Park. Uberuaga will begin his duties in mid-July.
“I am extremely pleased that we have someone of Dave’s character,
experience and ability at Grand Canyon National Park,” Wessels said. “He
has all the skills necessary to take on the many complex issues that are
part of managing a park the size and stature of Grand Canyon.”
Uberuaga is currently the Superintendent of Mount Rainier National Park in
Washington state, a post he has held for the past 9 years. During that
time he served for more than a year as Acting Superintendent of Yosemite
National Park. He has spent 37 years in federal service and has been with
the National Park Service since 1984.
“I am humbled to have been selected as Superintendent at Grand Canyon,”
Uberuaga said. “I look forward to working with the park staff, the many
stakeholders who care so deeply about the park, and the local community.
Grand Canyon National Park is a truly spectacular place, one that has
inspired people around the world.”
Uberuaga has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Masters in
Business Administration from the University of Idaho. Among his many
awards, he is the recipient of the National Parks Conservation
Association’s Stehpen Tyng Mather Award for promoting environmental
preservation in parks; the Department of Interior Cooperative Conservation
Award; and the Department of Interior Superior Service Award. In 2008, he
was named Federal Land Manger of the year by the Department of Interior.
Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, he and his wife Barbara have three grown
children, Mark, Michelle and Amy.
---NPS---
Friday, May 20, 2011
Mount Rainier Spring/Summer Opening Schedule
-NPS-
Paradise Inn Opens - On Friday, May 20, the historic Paradise Inn opens its
doors once again to greet visitors for the 2011 season. Constructed in
1916, the Inn showcases a beautiful lobby and dining room featuring hand
painted hanging lamps depicting park wildflowers, three huge stone
fireplaces to welcome guests, 118 guest rooms, a café, and gift shop with
authentic Native American arts and crafts. A full service dining room
offers Northwest cuisine. The Inn is listed as a National Historic
Landmark.
In addition to the Paradise Inn, the National Park Inn at Longmire is also
open for visitors. The National Park Inn offers 25 guests rooms, a cozy
fireside room for guests to enjoy, full service restaurant, general store
and gift shop.
Both inns are operated by Guest Services, Incorporated. Reservations can
be made on line at www.mtrainierguestservices.com or by telephone at
360-569-2275.
Gateway communities surrounding the park are open daily also providing
lodging, meals, gifts, equipment rentals, horseback riding, fishing,
special events and a variety of other needs to park visitors. Information
on these businesses is available on the internet at www.visitrainier.com,
www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com or www.minerallake.com.
CURRENT STATUS AND PROJECTED OPENING DATES OF OTHER PARK FACILITIES (by
area): Note: Some dates may change due to snow conditions and accessibility
ROADS:
Stevens Canyon Road Open Friday, May 27 @ 8:00 a.m.
SR 410 to SR 123 over Cayuse Pass Open Thursday, May 26
Sunrise Road Open Friday, June 24 @ 8:00 a.m.
Mowich Lake Road Open Friday, July 1 @ 8:00 a.m.
Skate Creek Road (USFS Road 52) Opened Thursday, May 19
Longmire:
Longmire Museum Open daily - 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Longmire Wilderness Information Center Open daily - 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
National Park Inn Open daily year round
Cougar Rock:
Cougar Rock Campground Opening delayed until June 3 8:00 a.m. due to snow.
Cougar Rock Picnic Area Same as Cougar Rock Campground
Paradise:
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center Open daily -10:00 a.m. - 6 p.m. (starting May 20)
Paradise Inn Open daily beginning May 20
Box Canyon:
Box Canyon Picnic Area & Restrooms Open May 27
Ohanapecosh:
Ohanapecosh Campground Open May 27 – 8:00 a.m.
Ohanapecosh Visitor Center Open May 27–30 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., then weekends only until June 11. June 11-September 4 - open 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Grove of the Patriarchs Open 5/27
White River:
White River Road to WR Campground May 27 (Projected-subject to snow
conditions)
White River Campground Open June 24 - 8:00 a.m.
Sunrise:
Sunrise Lodge (snack bar & gift shop) Open June 24
Sunrise Visitor Center July 1 (10 am - 6 pm)
Carbon River:
Ranger Station open year round Call for hours - 360-829-9639
For additional information visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/mora or
call 360-569-2211
SPRING/SUMMER OPENING SCHEDULEParadise Inn Opens - On Friday, May 20, the historic Paradise Inn opens its
doors once again to greet visitors for the 2011 season. Constructed in
1916, the Inn showcases a beautiful lobby and dining room featuring hand
painted hanging lamps depicting park wildflowers, three huge stone
fireplaces to welcome guests, 118 guest rooms, a café, and gift shop with
authentic Native American arts and crafts. A full service dining room
offers Northwest cuisine. The Inn is listed as a National Historic
Landmark.
In addition to the Paradise Inn, the National Park Inn at Longmire is also
open for visitors. The National Park Inn offers 25 guests rooms, a cozy
fireside room for guests to enjoy, full service restaurant, general store
and gift shop.
Both inns are operated by Guest Services, Incorporated. Reservations can
be made on line at www.mtrainierguestservices.com or by telephone at
360-569-2275.
Gateway communities surrounding the park are open daily also providing
lodging, meals, gifts, equipment rentals, horseback riding, fishing,
special events and a variety of other needs to park visitors. Information
on these businesses is available on the internet at www.visitrainier.com,
www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com or www.minerallake.com.
CURRENT STATUS AND PROJECTED OPENING DATES OF OTHER PARK FACILITIES (by
area): Note: Some dates may change due to snow conditions and accessibility
ROADS:
Stevens Canyon Road Open Friday, May 27 @ 8:00 a.m.
SR 410 to SR 123 over Cayuse Pass Open Thursday, May 26
Sunrise Road Open Friday, June 24 @ 8:00 a.m.
Mowich Lake Road Open Friday, July 1 @ 8:00 a.m.
Skate Creek Road (USFS Road 52) Opened Thursday, May 19
Longmire:
Longmire Museum Open daily - 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Longmire Wilderness Information Center Open daily - 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
National Park Inn Open daily year round
Cougar Rock:
Cougar Rock Campground Opening delayed until June 3 8:00 a.m. due to snow.
Cougar Rock Picnic Area Same as Cougar Rock Campground
Paradise:
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center Open daily -10:00 a.m. - 6 p.m. (starting May 20)
Paradise Inn Open daily beginning May 20
Box Canyon:
Box Canyon Picnic Area & Restrooms Open May 27
Ohanapecosh:
Ohanapecosh Campground Open May 27 – 8:00 a.m.
Ohanapecosh Visitor Center Open May 27–30 - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., then weekends only until June 11. June 11-September 4 - open 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Grove of the Patriarchs Open 5/27
White River:
White River Road to WR Campground May 27 (Projected-subject to snow
conditions)
White River Campground Open June 24 - 8:00 a.m.
Sunrise:
Sunrise Lodge (snack bar & gift shop) Open June 24
Sunrise Visitor Center July 1 (10 am - 6 pm)
Carbon River:
Ranger Station open year round Call for hours - 360-829-9639
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Snowshoe Walks for School Groups
Contact: Fawn Bauer, Education Specialist 360-569-6037
With these recent storms that have hit the Cascades, the Education Staff at
Mount Rainier National Park is offering additional curriculum-based
snowshoe education programs for school groups. If you are a teacher
looking to bring your students on a field trip to Mount Rainier during the
school week, don’t miss this opportunity. These programs are available at
no charge to school groups and are tailored to the teacher’s identified
learning objectives.
Through a “Connecting Kids to Parks” grant from Washington’s National Park
Fund, several mini-grants are available to help subsidize the
transportation costs for schools to bring students to the park during this
spring 2011 school year. These mini-grants are intended to be cost-share
subsidies for bus transportation, so that the maximum amount of students
can benefit. Number and size of grants will vary, with most grants being in
the $100-$250 range. These mini-grants are made possible in an effort to
increase the accessibility of park experiences for youth who may not
otherwise have an opportunity to visit a national park.
For more information about these school snowshoe education walks and the
bus subsidy grant, please contact Fawn Bauer at 360-569-6037.
Please check the Mount Rainier National Park website at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/forteachers/index.htm for more information about
field trips and teacher workshops.
Please remember that roads in the park may be closed at any time due to
hazardous conditions. General park information is available at
www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
-NPS-
With these recent storms that have hit the Cascades, the Education Staff at
Mount Rainier National Park is offering additional curriculum-based
snowshoe education programs for school groups. If you are a teacher
looking to bring your students on a field trip to Mount Rainier during the
school week, don’t miss this opportunity. These programs are available at
no charge to school groups and are tailored to the teacher’s identified
learning objectives.
Through a “Connecting Kids to Parks” grant from Washington’s National Park
Fund, several mini-grants are available to help subsidize the
transportation costs for schools to bring students to the park during this
spring 2011 school year. These mini-grants are intended to be cost-share
subsidies for bus transportation, so that the maximum amount of students
can benefit. Number and size of grants will vary, with most grants being in
the $100-$250 range. These mini-grants are made possible in an effort to
increase the accessibility of park experiences for youth who may not
otherwise have an opportunity to visit a national park.
For more information about these school snowshoe education walks and the
bus subsidy grant, please contact Fawn Bauer at 360-569-6037.
Please check the Mount Rainier National Park website at
http://www.nps.gov/mora/forteachers/index.htm for more information about
field trips and teacher workshops.
Please remember that roads in the park may be closed at any time due to
hazardous conditions. General park information is available at
www.nps.gov/mora or by calling 360-569-2211.
-NPS-
Friday, March 18, 2011
Mount Rainier Press Release - Spring Opening Beginning
March 18, 2011
2011 SPRING OPENING BEGINNING
The calendar may say it’s almost the first day of Spring, but at Mount
Rainier National Park Spring is still a long way off. But, despite the
fact that Paradise currently has 203” of snow on the ground (121% above
normal) staff at Mount Rainier is once again beginning the annual spring
opening. This process, which begins at the lower elevations of the park
such as Longmire and Ohanapecosh and moves up the mountain to the higher
elevations of White River and Sunrise as the snow melts or is plowed away,
is like bringing a small community back to life every year. Roads that
have been completely snowed in since last fall are blown out with snow
equipment; removal of slides, boulders and rocks and fallen trees from
these roads, cleaning ditches of debris and repairing any damage; shoveling
snow from park buildings; reactivating water, sewer and heating systems
that have been shut down since fall; repairing damage from winter’s harsh
conditions and many other maintenance activities associated with getting
the park’s public facilities ready for another season of visitation.
SNOW PLAY AND SNOWSHOE WALKS ENDING MARCH 27
The public snow play area at Paradise will be staffed and groomed through
Sunday, March 27. After that date the snow play runs will not be
maintained and sledding will not be permitted due to safety concerns.
The ranger-led snow shoe walks will also end that same date - March 27.
The new Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center is open weekends only, 10
a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 7 when it will begin 7-day a week operation.
The Paradise Inn is scheduled to open for the 2011 season on Friday, May
20. Reservations can be made by phone – 360-569-2275, or on line at
www.mtrainierguestservices.com
While snow play activities will be ending, great opportunities still exist
for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Paradise area. Before
heading out, visitors are advised to check with park staff for current
weather and avalanche conditions. Spring can be a wonderful time to
experience the park, but dangerous conditions can exist.
For current road and weather information, visit the park’s web page at
www.nps.gov/mora, or call 360-569-2211 for recorded updates. For local
business information web sites visit: www.visitrainier.com,
www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com, www.minerallake.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com, or www.mtrainierguestservices.com
-NPS-
2011 SPRING OPENING BEGINNING
The calendar may say it’s almost the first day of Spring, but at Mount
Rainier National Park Spring is still a long way off. But, despite the
fact that Paradise currently has 203” of snow on the ground (121% above
normal) staff at Mount Rainier is once again beginning the annual spring
opening. This process, which begins at the lower elevations of the park
such as Longmire and Ohanapecosh and moves up the mountain to the higher
elevations of White River and Sunrise as the snow melts or is plowed away,
is like bringing a small community back to life every year. Roads that
have been completely snowed in since last fall are blown out with snow
equipment; removal of slides, boulders and rocks and fallen trees from
these roads, cleaning ditches of debris and repairing any damage; shoveling
snow from park buildings; reactivating water, sewer and heating systems
that have been shut down since fall; repairing damage from winter’s harsh
conditions and many other maintenance activities associated with getting
the park’s public facilities ready for another season of visitation.
SNOW PLAY AND SNOWSHOE WALKS ENDING MARCH 27
The public snow play area at Paradise will be staffed and groomed through
Sunday, March 27. After that date the snow play runs will not be
maintained and sledding will not be permitted due to safety concerns.
The ranger-led snow shoe walks will also end that same date - March 27.
The new Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center is open weekends only, 10
a.m. to 5 p.m. until May 7 when it will begin 7-day a week operation.
The Paradise Inn is scheduled to open for the 2011 season on Friday, May
20. Reservations can be made by phone – 360-569-2275, or on line at
www.mtrainierguestservices.com
While snow play activities will be ending, great opportunities still exist
for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Paradise area. Before
heading out, visitors are advised to check with park staff for current
weather and avalanche conditions. Spring can be a wonderful time to
experience the park, but dangerous conditions can exist.
For current road and weather information, visit the park’s web page at
www.nps.gov/mora, or call 360-569-2211 for recorded updates. For local
business information web sites visit: www.visitrainier.com,
www.mt-rainier.com, www.staycrystal.com, www.minerallake.com,
www.destinationpackwood.com, or www.mtrainierguestservices.com
-NPS-
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