TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF LAUGHINGWATER CREEK TRAIL

Mount Rainier National Park officials advise that the Laughingwater Creek Trail has been temporarily closed to the public from the trailhead at Highway 123 to the ranger cabin at Three Lakes due to potential wildlife hazards.  The closure will last until September 19 or until further notice.

On September 5, a pack animal succumbed to natural causes while on the trail.  While the carcass has been moved off the trail, it may attract large predators such as bears or mountain lions, which may create hazardous conditions for hikers in the area.  Rangers will monitor the trail over the next week and a half to determine when the trail can be safely reopened.