Public can weigh in on proposed improvements to Pacific Northwest Trail

After traversing Montana, Idaho and the North Cascades, hikers on the Pacific Northwest Trail pass through Whatcom and Skagit counties on their way to the Washington coast.

Pacific Northwest Trail Association Executive Director Jeff Kish said in this area the trail could use some improvements and that now is the time for the public to get involved.

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and the state Department of Natural Resources are each planning how to manage land in Whatcom County where the trail association has proposed changes to the trail.

Natural Resources is developing a plan to guide recreation developments on state land managed by the agency in Whatcom County. Kish said rerouting the Pacific Northwest Trail through those forest lands could get hikers off roads and private land used for the trail.

Natural Resources started the Baker to Bellingham planning process in 2016. The agency said the planning committee is now focusing on refining draft concept maps for developing hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding opportunities in the area.

To comment on Natural Resource plans, email [email protected]. Comment on North Fork Nooksack plans can be submitted at skagit.ws/NooksackForestPlans.

 

The following are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.