Mount Rainier National Park Remains Closed Through Next Week Due to Flood Damage

November 14, 2008
For Immediate Release
Lee Taylor/Mimi Gorman 360-569-2211, x2307

Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Dave Uberuaga advises that the Nisqually Entrance Road (SR706 entrance) will remain closed to the public through Friday, November 21. Flood waters compromised the safety of the road in the Kautz Creek area and crews have begun to repair damages to halt further destruction by the creek.

The Kautz Creek channel has once again diverted and is now flowing through the woods approximately 100-150’ east of the channel created during the 2006 flood event. A portion of the water is flowing back into the culverts installed during the 2006 repair work and the remainder of the water is following the roadside ditch to the low point. Sandbags have been placed to divert the water from flowing over the roadway; however the creek is flowing directly against and undermining the road edge. Park crews will work this weekend to attempt to get the water back into the 2006 channel and shore up the damaged areas.

The Pierce County road into the Carbon River Entrance is closed outside the park at MP6. Approximately 200’ feet of the road was completely washed away to a depth of 10’. Trail conditions and river crossings in this area are extremely hazardous. Many foot bridges and crossings do not exist. Hiking in the Carbon River area is not recommended.

On the east side of the park State Route 410 is open with delays. State Route 123 is closed at the Stevens Canyon Road junction. Flood debris once again damaged the bridge to the Grove of the Patriarchs so it is closed while other trails in the area remain open.

For updated information, contact the park at 360-569-2211, ext. 2334. Updates will also be posted to the park’s web page www.nps.gov/mora