Washington's Most Popular Trail - Mount Si - Needs a Facelift
Washington Trails Association tackles major winter storm damage to restore trails
Washington State's most popular hiking trail is about to get some much-needed maintenance from volunteers with the Washington Trails Association, in partnership with Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. And to the delight of Mount Si's thousands of fans, the trail will remain open during this reconstruction.
Located near North Bend, Mount Si attracts more than 160,000 hikers a year, making it the state's most-used trail. The steep 4,167-foot climb in four miles is a favorite for Seattle-area outdoor enthusiasts, with many using it as a conditioning hike. It also offers stunning views of Snoqualmie Valley, Seattle's skyline and across Puget Sound to the Olympic mountain range.
All that use takes its toll on the venerable mountain, however.
"Mount Si is literally 'loved to death,' and the trail is in dire need of reconstruction," said Greg Ball, director of operations for Washington Trails Association. "WTA volunteers are pitching in to provide a safe, enjoyable experience for all who visit to prevent erosion and natural resource damage."
With more than a million hikers using the trail in the past decade, the damage is easy to recognize.
Exposed tree roots are tripping hikers. Water running down the trail has led to both muddy and dangerously slick conditions. And as hikers avoid these wet spots and rocky gulches, the trail gradually has widened, causing environmental damage.
Repairs to Mount Si will be extensive. The trails need to be hardened and re-excavated. Several turnpike structures that lift the trail above saturated soil must be replaced. New rock and timber support are needed due to the trail's steepness and heavy traffic.
Without these improvements, hikers can look forward to twisted ankles and swollen feet due to poor conditions and the environmental damage will worsen.
"The time to begin reconstruction is now, while the trail is still in manageable shape," said Ball of WTA. "This will ensure Mount Si's thousands of annual hikers the safest and most enjoyable hiking opportunity possible."
Join the volunteer work crew at Mount Si, and give back to the trail you love! Sign up for a work party, or call Washington Trails Association (206)625-1367 for more information.