Contact: Charles Beall, 360-854-7302
A temporary log crossing is in place over Thunder Creek making the Thunder Creek Trail passable again to foot traffic. The trail was closed about 14 miles from the trailhead, just before the Skagit Queen Camp, due to the failure of the Skagit Queen Bridge about four weeks ago. The crossing remains closed to stock. Due to the volume and speed of the creek and the steepness of its banks at this location, there is no recommended safe alternative crossing for stock. “We hope that this new log crossing will last through the winter so that it can also be used next spring while we work on a permanent replacement of the Skagit Queen Bridge,” said Trail Maintenance and Historic Preservation Supervisor Don Mann. “Depending on snow conditions, we plan to have a new bridge in place by mid-June next year.” It took a crew of four people (two park employees and two Student Conservation Association interns) four days to put the temporary log crossing in place. A wire rope was also installed to be used and a handrail. “We are fortunate to have a professional trail crew on staff to respond to these needs,” said park superintendent Chip Jenkins. “The additional assistance of volunteers from organizations such as the Student Conservation Association and Washington Trails Association helps us ensure that park trails are maintained in great condition.” Digital images of the damaged Skagit Queen Bridge and its temporary replacement are available at https://www.flickr.com/photos/northcascadesnationalpark/sets/72157624585818361 Current trail information is available at https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/hiking.htm |
Last updated: August 11, 2017