Mount Rainier National Park access blocked with SR 410, SR 706 still closed
Crews are working to remove debris from landslides covering all roads to Mount Rainier National Park, but it’s unclear when access to the park will be available.
Both state Route 410 near Greenwater and Route 706 in Ashford closed Thursday after relentless rains triggered several slides.
The weekend brought progress to the work on Route 410.
Three of four landslides were cleared from a 20-mile stretch, with crews working overnight to remove trees, mud and other debris that spilled across all lanes, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.
Although locals were granted access Sunday evening, a one-mile closure remains between Mud Mountain Road and Greenwater.
Puget Sound Energy also was able to restore power to more than 700 homes on Sunday.
Over the last four days, people could only leave their homes with an escort from the Fire Department. One escort per day was available so locals could pick up supplies in town.
The closure continues to affect Crystal Mountain Resort, which cannot open until the highway is open.
Removing slide debris on Route 706 in Ashford has been trickier.
Officials said the hillside above the highway is too unstable to begin clearing fallen trees and mud from the lanes.
“We want to reopen the highway as soon as possible, but the slope continues to move and is very unstable,” said Troy Cowan, WSDOT assistant region administrator. “Removing debris from the highway that’s up to 6 feet deep in places, plus strong ongoing running water, may trigger additional slides that could put lives — both of crews and travelers — in danger.”
The highway is closed at milepost 10.18 near Kernahan Road East.
There is no detour.
Although debris cannot yet be removed, crews are working to clear culverts and rebuild shoulders.
After the landslide is cleared, WSDOT will work with the national park on a long-term plan to stabilize the hillside.
This story was originally published February 10, 2020 at 10:14 AM.
