Overcrowding leads to closure of access to Lake Cushman, Staircase entrance to Olympic National Park

Starting Saturday, a section of a forest road to Lake Cushman, several trails, day-use sites and the Staircase entrance of Olympia National Park will be closed to cars and pedestrians, officials said.

Officials with the Forest Service said there has been an increase in people visiting and it has exceeded the capacity and led to gridlock. They also said it has resulted in hazardous conditions for the public, the park and Forest Service staff.

“The extreme numbers of people recreating at Lake Cushman are creating unsafe conditions and degrading the experience for everyone. No one wants to be stuck in a 6-mile long traffic jam on a narrow, gravel road with no way to turn around,” said District Ranger, Yewah Lau. 

Officials also said an overflow of cars prevented emergency response vehicles and personnel from responding to  requests for help.

The section Forest Roads 24 and 2451 that provide public access to Lake Cushman will be closed.

People who live beyond the road closure, emergency response personnel and administrative staff will be allowed access.

“This was a hard decision to make, but necessary for the health and safety of visitors and staff. I hope people can discover other less crowded areas to enjoy,” said Lau.

Cox Media Group