Forum Index > Trail Talk > Trail and Park Closures
 Reply to topic
Previous :: Next Topic
Author Message
wiki summary





wiki summary
PostWed Apr 01, 2020 3:24 pm 
This list is not complete or fully up to date. If something is not listed here, that doesn't mean it's open. We've compiled this list for the convenience of hikers. Roads Only high-use roads that are important to hikers will be listed here. Hiking Snow

Wiki summmary last edited by puzzlr on Sat May 02, 2020 10:33 pm (this post can be edited by any member)
Back to top Reply to topic
Secret Agent Man
Member
Member


Joined: 24 Dec 2015
Posts: 163 | TRs | Pics
Location: Seattle
Secret Agent Man
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 9:04 am 
Inslee is holding a press conference at 2:30 today with Lands Commissioner Franz and Susewind of DFW. It’s expected the announcement will be about reopening closed state lands and activities like fishing, I assume they will likely open on May 4th when the current order expires, only question is if there’s any kind of phase-in with some activities or places opening before others or what kind of requirements or conditions are put in place, as were done for residential construction.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Cyclopath
Faster than light



Joined: 20 Mar 2012
Posts: 7697 | TRs | Pics
Location: Seattle
Cyclopath
Faster than light
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 10:09 am 
Stephen B wrote:
I get the complaint about thread drift but how does commenting on a crowd at a Seattle park (your post today) or cars on turnouts on hwy2 ( another users post) not deviate from the strict topic you say we should adhere to - what’s open and what’s closed?
All King County parks were closed recently, they've (mostly?) reopened. I'm sharing an observation so people have a better idea what to expect when they leave home. Everybody has a different level of concern, people who are internet on avoiding crowds should know there's crowding in parks that have places to congregate.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Secret Agent Man
Member
Member


Joined: 24 Dec 2015
Posts: 163 | TRs | Pics
Location: Seattle
Secret Agent Man
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 10:18 am 
Cyclopath wrote:
All King County parks were closed recently, they've (mostly?) reopened. I'm sharing an observation so people have a better idea what to expect when they leave home. Everybody has a different level of concern, people who are internet on avoiding crowds should know there's crowding in parks that have places to congregate.
King County parks are technically still closed, and not just gates like USFS, they asked people not to go on the trails at all: https://kingcountyparks.org/2020/03/25/king-county-parks-coronavirus-update/ But it sounds like plenty of people have still been going out into them. I haven’t been to Cougar since the closure but it’d be trivial to park legally near the gates and walk in, and King County did say they don’t expect to actively enforce anything and they are hoping people will comply voluntarily.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Backpacker Joe
Blind Hiker



Joined: 16 Dec 2001
Posts: 23956 | TRs | Pics
Location: Cle Elum
Backpacker Joe
Blind Hiker
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 10:57 am 
All BLM lands in washington and oregon are open!BLM lands Wa Or

"If destruction be our lot we must ourselves be its author and finisher. As a nation of freemen we must live through all time or die by suicide." — Abraham Lincoln
Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
zephyr
aka friendly hiker



Joined: 21 Jun 2009
Posts: 3361 | TRs | Pics
Location: West Seattle
zephyr
aka friendly hiker
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 2:41 pm 
Currently Governor Inslee is announcing an Outdoors Recreation partial re-opening starting May 5th. We are still to observe social distancing and wear face masks when needed. We need to not be sharing vehicles with people outside our household. # day use of state parks # day use of public lands # day use of state fish and wildlife areas Here's a link to the briefing in Olympia. ~z . . Note: This is great news. And they really need to practice their conference call skills. The sound of some speakers is atrocious. Maybe a test run before the big show?

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
dixon
Member
Member


Joined: 24 Apr 2020
Posts: 176 | TRs | Pics
dixon
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 3:25 pm 
Schroder wrote:
I don't know if it's been mentioned earlier but the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road is barricaded 2 miles from I-90
Apparently it 'should' be open May 5th according to the Governors address r.e. DNR lands. He and the commissioner seem to believe that there wont be 300+ people at the mailbox trailhead and that everyone will be responsible, have masks and stay 6ft at all times waah.gif Side note - does anyone know how these officials e.g. commissioner get these jobs? They wouldn't even get past the preliminary phone screen #1 in my company.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
BigBrunyon
Member
Member


Joined: 19 Mar 2015
Posts: 1450 | TRs | Pics
Location: the fitness gyms!!
BigBrunyon
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 4:09 pm 
dixon wrote:
Side note - does anyone know how these officials e.g. commissioner get these jobs?
They are not jobs, they are merely "seats".

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Arginine
Member
Member


Joined: 04 Apr 2005
Posts: 179 | TRs | Pics
Arginine
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 4:22 pm 
Side note - does anyone know how these officials e.g. commissioner get these jobs? They wouldn't even get past the preliminary phone screen #1 in my company. State lands commissioner is elected. The others are appointees. But not sure how you get there.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
thunderhead
Member
Member


Joined: 14 Oct 2015
Posts: 1511 | TRs | Pics
thunderhead
Member
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 5:10 pm 
Arginine wrote:
The others are appointees. But not sure how you get there.
Your dads company donated to inslee, probably

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Ski
><((((°>



Joined: 28 May 2005
Posts: 12798 | TRs | Pics
Location: tacoma
Ski
><((((°>
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 8:50 pm 
POLITICS OF COVID-19 THREAD HERE ========================================================= Monday April 27, 2020 16:48 PDT WDFW NEWS RELEASE State recreation lands to reopen May 5 for local day-use only OLYMPIA -- The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Parks) announced today they will reopen state-managed lands on Tuesday, May 5, for local day-use only recreation. The reopening will apply to state-managed parks, wildlife areas, recreation land, and boat launches. However, it may take several days for gates to be unlocked and sites to be serviced at remote areas due to limited staff capacity. Some parks may not open immediately due to impacts on rural communities and the potential for crowding. State Parks is working with local communities and its partners to determine the best approach and timing to reopening these areas. Visitor centers, camping, and other overnight accommodations on state-managed lands will remain closed until further notice. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) also plans to reopen their recreation lands on May 5 for day-use. For more information on DNR's operations, visit dnr.wa.gov/open . State land managers recommend people come prepared and bring their own handwashing supplies, toilet paper, and personal protective equipment as some sites will have reduced or limited restroom facilities. People should also be prepared to change plans if their destination appears crowded or is not yet fully operational. If sites become overcrowded or other COVID-19 related public safety concerns develop, state agencies may close areas with limited notice to further protect public health and safety. Certain restrictions around specific activities may also apply. The public can find the latest information about WDFW and Parks operations at: WDFW: wdfw.wa.gov/about/covid-19-updates Parks: parks.state.wa.us/COVID19 Guidelines for #ResponsibleRecreation in the outdoors Before you go Check what's open. While many state-managed land destinations are open for day-use, other local, tribal, and federal land may still be closed. Opt for day trips close to home. Overnight stays are not permitted. Stay with immediate household members only. Recreation with those outside of your household creates new avenues for virus transmission. Come prepared. Visitors may find reduced or limited restroom services as staff begin the process to reopen facilities at wildlife areas and water access sites. You are advised to bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, as well as a mask or bandana to cover your nose and mouth. Enjoy the outdoors when healthy. If you have symptoms of fever, coughing, or shortness of breath, save your outdoor adventure for another day. When you get there Avoid crowds. Be prepared to go somewhere else or come back another time if your destination looks crowded. Practice physical distancing. Keep six feet between you and those outside your immediate household. Launch one boat at a time to give others enough space to launch safely. Leave at least one parking space between your vehicle and the vehicle next to you. Trailer your boat in the same way. Wash your hands often. Keep up on personal hygiene and bring your own water, soap, and hand sanitizer with you. Pack out what you pack in. Take any garbage with you, including disposable gloves and masks. About WDFW Lands The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife actively manages about a million acres of land, with 33 wildlife areas and nearly 500 water access sites around the state. These public lands help sustain wildlife habitat and public recreation opportunities for current and future generations. WDFW is the primary state agency tasked with preserving, protecting, and perpetuating fish, wildlife, and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fishing and hunting opportunities. About Washington State Parks The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 120 state parks and properties totaling approximately 138,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks' statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. -WDFW-

"I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each."
Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Ski
><((((°>



Joined: 28 May 2005
Posts: 12798 | TRs | Pics
Location: tacoma
Ski
><((((°>
PostMon Apr 27, 2020 8:52 pm 
POLITICS OF COVID-19 THREAD HERE ========================================================= Monday, April 27, 2020 20:00 PDT WDFW NEWS RELEASE WDFW to open some recreational fishing and hunting starting Tuesday, May 5 OLYMPIA -- The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced today it will reopen some recreational fishing and hunting in a phased approach following the state's efforts to limit the spread of coronavirus. The department is asking hunters and anglers to enjoy these outdoor activities only if they can do so locally, while also practicing physical distancing. Many WDFW wildlife areas and boat ramps will reopen May 5 for day-use only recreation, as will some recreational fishing per 2019-2020 sport fishing rules. All freshwater fisheries will open May 5, as will Puget Sound saltwater fisheries (Marine Areas 5-13), except for halibut, shrimp, and intertidal shellfish harvesting, which remain closed statewide. Coastal saltwater fishing and shellfish harvesting in marine areas 1-4, including coastal clam digs, will also remain closed in consultation with local health departments, who continue to be concerned regarding the potential health impact to their communities from outside visitors. Local hunting for turkey and spring bear will open on May 5, and the spring bear season will be extended until June 30. "We've had so many people doing their part to stay home, and we're seeing results. We're now at a point where we will soon be able to begin welcoming people back outdoors," said Kelly Susewind, WDFW director. "I'm asking people to take what they've learned these past few weeks and continue putting these measures into play as you fish, hunt, and enjoy your local wildlife area. We're happy to reopen these opportunities, and we need you to continue working with us to stay safe." Visitors, anglers, and hunters should only venture out well-prepared. The public should expect limited access to restrooms as staff begin the process to reopen facilities at wildlife areas and water access sites. WDFW is also recommending that people bring their own handwashing materials, toilet paper, and masks or bandanas, and be prepared to change plans if sites appear congested. WDFW hatchery staff have continued to stock lakes throughout the closure. Anglers are asked to practice appropriate physical distancing at a given location, and avoid crowding on banks, piers, or at boat ramps. The department will be unable to host any formal opening day events for lowland lakes this year. Anglers should consult the Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet at wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/ or Fish Washington mobile app, as well as the emergency rule changes webpage at fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/, before heading out. If sites become overcrowded or other COVID-19 related public safety concerns develop, the department may reclose areas to further protect public health and safe resource management. The department is encouraging local county health departments to stay in contact with WDFW regional management regarding any concerns, and notes that the department may also act to close areas during localized future outbreaks to discourage travel or congestion-related spread of the virus. Spring bear hunters who would normally travel outside their local areas to hunt may wait to see how travel guidance evolves, or seek a permit refund and reclaim their points if they are unable to hunt while meeting local hunting recommendations. Permit hunters are responsible for securing access, which may not be available for all or for the added season dates. Permit holders will be sent more detailed information that will also be posted on WDFW's COVID-19 page, and they should contact the Wildlife Program Customer Service Desk at 360-902-2515 or wildthing@dfw.wa.gov if they have additional questions. WDFW regional offices, visitor centers, and hatcheries will remain closed to the public for now, but remain available by phone. Those who encounter WDFW staff while in the field should feel free to engage with WDFW employees, but remember to practice physical distancing and keep at least six feet away. To help discourage travel, the department is suspending the sale of non-resident fishing licenses. Guidelines for #ResponsibleRecreation in the outdoors Before you go Check what's open. While many state-managed land destinations are open for day-use, other local, tribal, and federal land may still be closed. Opt for day trips close to home. Overnight stays are not permitted. Stay with immediate household members only. Recreation with those outside of your household creates new avenues for virus transmission. Come prepared. Visitors may find reduced or limited restroom services as staff begin the process to reopen facilities at wildlife areas and water access sites. You are advised to bring your own soap, water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, as well as a mask or bandana to cover your nose and mouth. Enjoy the outdoors when healthy. If you have symptoms of fever, coughing, or shortness of breath, save your outdoor adventure for another day. When you get there Avoid crowds. Be prepared to go somewhere else or come back another time if your destination looks crowded. Practice physical distancing. Keep six feet between you and those outside your immediate household. Launch one boat at a time to give others enough space to launch safely. Leave at least one parking space between your vehicle and the vehicle next to you. Trailer your boat in the same way. Wash your hands often. Keep up on personal hygiene and bring your own water, soap, and hand sanitizer with you. Pack out what you pack in. Take any garbage with you, including disposable gloves and masks. For the latest updates on WDFW's coronavirus response and to check the status of your favorite destinations, visit wdfw.wa.gov/about/covid-19-updates. Find more guidelines for responsible recreation in this WDFW blog. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is the state agency tasked with preserving, protecting, and perpetuating fish, wildlife, and ecosystems, while providing sustainable fishing, hunting, and other recreation opportunities.  -WDFW-

"I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each."
Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Randito
Snarky Member



Joined: 27 Jul 2008
Posts: 9495 | TRs | Pics
Location: Bellevue at the moment.
Randito
Snarky Member
PostTue Apr 28, 2020 7:08 am 
Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
Moose
Member
Member


Joined: 19 Sep 2010
Posts: 271 | TRs | Pics
Moose
Member
PostTue Apr 28, 2020 8:32 am 
Sorry if this is a stupid question, but are National Forests (managed by USFS) also going to reopen on May 5? All of the press releases I've seen only mention state and DNR-managed lands. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie, specifically, has not updated the closure info on their website (it still states 9/30/20). https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/mbs/alerts-notices/?aid=58041

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
kitya
Fortune Cookie



Joined: 15 Mar 2010
Posts: 842 | TRs | Pics
Location: Duvall, WA
kitya
Fortune Cookie
PostTue Apr 28, 2020 8:46 am 
Moose wrote:
Sorry if this is a stupid question, but are National Forests (managed by USFS) also going to reopen on May 5? All of the press releases I've seen only mention state and DNR-managed lands. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie, specifically, has not updated the closure info on their website (it still states 9/30/20). https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/mbs/alerts-notices/?aid=58041
Nothing has been announced about national forests yet. State lands will start re-opening on May 5th, not sure when national forests recreation sites will start opening. Unlike state lands, national forests themselves never closed though, only the developed recreation sites, trailheads, etc. and while state parks will re-open on May 5th, bathrooms etc., are still going to be closed. So there is very little difference.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
jm31828
Member
Member


Joined: 29 Jul 2011
Posts: 206 | TRs | Pics
jm31828
Member
PostTue Apr 28, 2020 10:26 am 
So really as long as they could take down the sandwich board signs at National Forest trailheads and remove that threat of fines, we'd be good with those. If they choose to keep the vault toilets closed that's fine- as you said it won't be much different than the state parks with their restrooms closed. People just need to do their business at home before they go out.

Back to top Reply to topic Reply with quote Send private message
   All times are GMT - 8 Hours
 Reply to topic
Forum Index > Trail Talk > Trail and Park Closures
  Happy Birthday noahk!
Jump to:   
Search this topic:

You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum