Northwest:
–KUOW is reporting that, “The U.S. Forest Service is shutting down research stations around the country, including centers in Portland, Seattle, and Wenatchee, Washington. Though much of the stations’ research is long-term, some fire experts say the cuts could hamper firefighting efforts as soon as this summer. The closures are part of an agencywide restructuring that includes moving the Forest Service headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Salt Lake City and replacing nine regional offices with 15 state-level offices.” To read more, click here.
–It does seem likely that the Glacier Creek Road (the approach road to the north side of Mt. Baker) will be repaired and open by the end of the summer. But some people just can’t wait. The Whatcom County 4X4 Search and Rescue Unit had to rescue a vehicle on an impromptu road that folks have been cutting to get around the washout. Read more here.
–Both Mt. Baker and Mt. Bachelor ski resorts will close this weekend. Read more.
–Some good news for Stehekin Valley. From Unofficial Networks: “The National Park Service has awarded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers a construction contract to rebuild access along Company Creek Road following major flood damage to North Cascades National Park Service Complex in December 2025.” Read more.
Sierra-Nevada:
–SF Gate is reporting that, “A rockslide in Mariposa County has triggered the full closure of a section of state Route 140, a popular highway into Yosemite National Park.” To read more, click here.
Desert Southwest:
–Outside is reporting that, “Outside the bounds of Grand Canyon National Park, one of our country’s newest national monuments protects nearly 1 million acres of public lands filled with fascinating rock formations, endangered California condors, and access to the mighty Colorado River. That protection is once again safeguarded from uranium mining-related threats by a recent court victory that even involved the governor.” To read more, click here.
–GearJunkie is reporting that, “Joshua Tree National Park attracts millions of visitors each year, and its striking desert landscape is home to many rare species. And the park may soon have a new neighbor: a rare earth mine. Last month, the Australian company Dateline Resources began exploring land next to the park for a potential mine for these valuable materials, and the plan is sparking backlash.” To read more, click here.
Colorado and Utah:
–ABC 4 is reporting on an uptick of rescues. “Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park rangers have assisted on multiple search and rescue incidents this week, warning visitors to take the proper precautions before heading to the park. ‘Hey everyone, just another safety reminder from park staff,” a social media post from Goblin Valley State Park reads. ‘Goblin rangers have assisted with search and rescue incidents almost everyday this week.'” To read more, click here.
–Unofficial Networks is reporting that, “Clear Creek County in Colorado is warning visitors to keep parking restrictions in mind as they plan for springtime hiking, biking and climbing. This time of year more people begin to head into the mountains for outdoor activity and Clear Creek County tends to see an influx of recreators, many of which tend to park less than legally.” To read more, click here.
–Gear Junkie is reporting that, “Zion National Park is consistently one of the nation’s most popular national parks. With nearly 5 million visitors in 2025, during peak season, it’s become nearly impossible to reserve a campsite in or near the park. Recently, however, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proposed major changes to camping along public lands near Zion, and the plan is sparking controversy. If implemented, the plan would cover nearly 14,000 acres of public land in Utah and shape the future of access in the American West.” To read more, click here.
–Vail Daily is reporting that, “consent forms filed in federal court on Friday show that nearly 2,000 ski and snowboard instructors have joined a collective action against Vail Resorts, alleging Fair Labor Standards Act lawsuit against the company.” To read more, click here.
Notes from All Over:
–SGB Media is reporting that, “GoPro, Inc. said in a regulatory filing that its board has approved a restructuring plan that will include the reduction of approximately 145 employees, representing approximately 23 percent of its workforce.” To read more, click here.
–Astronaut Christina Koch from the Artemis II mission to the moon ranks among the many astronauts that are also climbers. Climbing just published a profile here.
–Unofficial Networks is reporting that, “The High Country Press reports that Hawksnest Adventures has been sold to a new owner. The Cottom family has sold the property to Bound for Adventure, who are an adventure recreation company. Bound also owns River Riders and Wilderness Voyageurs. Some of the activities they currently offer include whitewater rafting and ziplining. This will be the third state in which they have operations. The new owners plan to share their vision for the site in the months ahead.” To read more, click here.