You are here

Pacific Northwest Heat Wave Has Olympic National Park Officials Urging Visitors To Be Prepared

Share

Published Date

June 25, 2021
Anemones in a tidepool, Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park / Rebecca Latson

Trying to escape the heat wave with a visit to Olympic National Park has park officials asking that you be prepared for both the heat and crowds/Rebecca Latson file

With an unusual heat wave bringing temperatures as much as 30 degrees above normal to the Pacific Northwest, officials at Olympic National Park in Washington are urging visitors to be prepared for both the heat and crowds.

"Public lands are a great place to enjoy or escape the heat, but the higher temperatures pose some challenges and risks. By following these safety tips during hot summer days everyone can help keep public lands and neighboring communities safe," park staff said.

  • Stay hydrated.
    • During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake. Plan to bring a half-liter of water per hour of your visit, per person, and don't wait until you are thirsty to drink it.
  • Dress appropriately.
    • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Use sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
  • Do not over challenge yourself.
    • There are plenty of recreation opportunities on the peninsula for everyone's experience and skill level. There is no shame in turning around if the trail is too strenuous or you are not properly prepared - your friends and family will thank you.

Those hoping to visit a lake or river on public lands are reminded: 

  • Bodies of water are colder than expected.
    • Warm air doesn’t always mean warm water in lakes, streams, or oceans. Enter bodies of water slowly as cold water can drain body heat quickly and lead to cold shock or hypothermia.
  • Bring a life jacket.
    • In Washington state law requires life jackets aboard most boats and personal watercraft, including paddleboards and kayaks – especially for children. Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved, and check to make sure it fits securely and is rated to support the weight of the person who will wear it.

Visitor Advisories:

  • Across the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park:
    • High use and heavy congestion are expected along roadways adjacent to lakes and rivers. Be patient and alert as there may be individuals crossing roadways.
    • If a parking lot is full be prepared with an alternative plan to visit another area. Do not park along roadsides.
    • Leave valuables at home if you don’t need them; keep critical items on your person. Thefts from vehicles parked at recreation sites do occur.
    • Ensure campfires are out. If it’s too hot for your hand it is too hot to leave.
  • Lake Cushman Area:
    • High use and heavy congestion are expected along the Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24), known as the Staircase Road, which leads to the Staircase entrance of the National Park.
    • Camping, campfires, overnight parking, and alcohol are prohibited along the Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24).
  • Lake Crescent Area:
    • The lake is very cold and deep; always wear life jackets on the water.
    • Campfires are prohibited outside of the fire pits at the picnic areas at Lake Crescent.
    • Camping is permitted only at Fairholme Campground or Log Cabin Resort.
    • Alcohol is prohibited in the following areas: the parking lot, picnic area, beach, and swim areas of Fairholme boat launch, East Beach extending to the area known as Pirate’s Cove, North Shore Day Use area, Bovee's Meadow, or in any area at concession facilities designated by “NO ALCOHOL AREA” signs.
  • High Alpine Trails (Mt. Elinor, The Brothers, Lena Lake, etc.):
    • Habituated and aggressive mountain goats have been reported on various trails. Maintain a distance of at least 50 yards form mountains goats. If a goat approaches too closely yell, wave your arms or an article of clothing, and if need be, throw rocks at the goat if it is aggressive.

Related Stories:

Stories about:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.