Upper Skagit Watershed Recreational Needs Assessment

Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission (SEEC) 29 September 2005 Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission (SEEC) Consultants Ken Farquharson, Canadian Commissioner Tom Beckwith AICP Ken Wilcox, US Alternate Commissioner Catherine Berris MCIP FCSLA Chris Tunnoch, Canadian Secretary Nancy Jordan Celia Grether, U.S. Secretary

Workshop participants - US Wayne Gannon Leon LeBrun, Trails BC Les Fugeta, Gibson Pass Resort Bill Paleck, National Park Service Tim Manns, National Park Service Bud Hardwick, Mount Baker Club Ken Wilcox, SEEC Chris Tunnoch, SEEC Celia Grether, SEEC

Workshop participants - BC Bill Archibald, Backcountry Horsemen of BC Chris Armstrong, Park Ranger, Lower Mainland Region, BC Park Alex Carr, BC Fly Fishing Federation Laurie Edward, Mountain Equipment Coop Leslay Fugeta, Gibson Pass Resort Wayne Gannon, BC Fly Fishing Federation Dave Goertzen, BC Parks, Penticton Celia Grether, SEEC Steve Hanson, Totem Fly Fishers Rick Jones, BC Fly Fishing Federation Dennis Knopp, Wildlife Biologist Leon LeBrun, Trails BC Doris McAdie, Backcountry Horsemen of BC Kelly Pearce, Fireside Communications Terry Robinson, BC Fly Fishing Federation Gilbert Sage, BC Fly Fishing Federation Rose Schroeder, Backcountry Horsemen of BC Rob Way, BC Fly Fishing Federation Doug Wilson, Fraser Valley Regional District Jim Wiebe, BC Parks, Ministry of Land, Water and Air Protection Norma Wilson, Outdoor Recreation Council Larri Woodrow, Trails BC

Survey respondents Mt Baker Ranger District Skagit County Parks & Recreation BC Federation of Fly Fishers Federation of BC Naturalists Trails BC BC Mountaineering Club North Cascade Institute Hope Mountain School Youth Dynamics Community Arts, Recreation & Education Coalition (CARE) Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) Ovenell’s Heritage Inn & Log Cabins Clark’s Skagit River Resort & Eaterie Restaurant Mazama Country Inn Deli Llama Wilderness Adventures Glacier Valley Mules US Forest Service

ii Executive summary

The SEEC commissioned this needs assessment of the recreation use of the Skagit River watershed above Ross Dam and the surrounding areas that bear upon activities in the watershed. The study area was defined to include portions of Skagit and Dewdney Provincial Forests, Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Cascade Recreation Area, and E.C. Manning Provincial Park in British Columbia; and North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Pasayten Wilderness, and Okanogan National Forest in the US.

The specific objectives of this assessment were to inventory existing facilities, project population and demographic trends, identify key issues, and delineate strategic options.

The SEEC Board and staff oversaw this recreation needs assessment process. The process included an extensive survey of all agencies, user and interest groups, and facility operators in the service region. Participant workshops were also conducted on each side of the border to allow direct discussion among SEEC staff, consultants, and interested parties.

The facts and proposals contained within this document are based on investigations supplemented by information obtaining during the above events.

Inventory implications The following implications are drawn from the effort to compile and complete the inventory information listed in this assessment.

• Gaps in inventory – there are significant information gaps in information regarding facilities in the Upper Skagit River Watershed study area. The facility data that is maintained and updated periodically by the agencies is not consistent between agencies or on both sides of the border. Some of this information may be available, but has not been recorded on digital maps or in park brochures. Some of this information may only be compiled through field investigations. A comprehensive and accurate inventory must be developed and maintained of existing facilities along with up to date assessments of conditions and utilization.

i • Undefined facility carrying capacities – apart from anecdotal comments, there are no documented determinations of the environmental carrying capacity of some of the watershed’s most sensitive facilities and environments. Such information will be critical to avoid environmental degradations due to overuse. Park management plans should account for carrying capacity limits and develop databases with which to determine the usage of all facilities between agencies on both sides of the border.

• Incomplete historical/cultural information – there are significant gaps in information and on maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites of the watershed area concerning historical and cultural attributes of interest to visitors of the watershed area. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed cultural and historical inventories of the watershed area. However, these attributes are not identified on maps, guidebooks, CDs, or websites that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of natural history, this oversight needs to be corrected. Watershed visitors will likely support preservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the attributes to be protected.

• Incomplete wildlife habitat area information – there are significant gaps in information and on maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites of the watershed area concerning wildlife habitat information of interest to visitors of the watershed area. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed wildlife inventories and assessments in the watershed area. However, like the cultural inventories described above, wildlife habitats are not identified on maps, guidebooks, CDs, or websites that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of the environment, this oversight needs to be corrected. Like cultural attributes, watershed visitors will more likely support wildlife habitat conservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the habitat to be protected.

Recreational demand qualifications and implications The following qualifications and implications pertain to the demand forecasts made in this assessment.

• Under the recreation demand capture scenarios described in this report, the volume of recreational activity will increase significantly for all activities in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed due partially to increased population growth within the recreational service areas.

• The volume of recreational activity demand could increase beyond the scenarios in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed if no more facilities are developed or available elsewhere in the region to meet the increased demands forecast for the type of activities that are most unique to the watershed.

• The volume of recreational activity demand could increase beyond the scenario forecast for backcountry activities – if it is assumed that there is a limited supply of this type of opportunity. The volume may actually increase beyond what is forecast if a greater percent of all users and the volume of activity is focused on the Upper Skagit due to scarcity elsewhere.

Analytical implications The following implications are drawn from the analytical effort to determine and project recreational demands for the watershed study area in this assessment.

ii • Incomplete facility utilization information – there is no consistent or current information about facility use volumes, patterns, or trends within the watershed study area. The information available is dated for all but backcountry permitting. An accurate database needs to be developed and maintained of the utilization of all facilities between all agencies on both sides of the border.

• Incomplete and irregular survey user behavior and attitudes – user surveys are old and may not reflect current use patterns or opinions. The 2005 survey of SR-20 highway users will provide useful information – but should be replicated to collect similar information from users throughout the watershed study area on a more frequent basis than has been done in the past. In addition, future surveys should include questions about possible policy issues including backcountry access permitting, facility developments, pricing and use allowances, and other options. A systematic survey approach needs to be developed and funded that measures user opinions and reactions to conditions and policy issues on both sides of the border on a regular basis.

• Undetermined facility carrying capacities –there are no documented determinations of the environmental carrying capacity of some of the watershed’s most sensitive facilities and environments. Such information will be critical in order to determine what levels of use or development can be sustained before environmental degradations occur. A method of defining and monitoring maximum environmental carrying capacity needs to be determined appropriate to some of the most sensitive backcountry sites that may be incorporated into park management plans and control facility development proposals.

• Undetermined user capacity preferences – there is no documented user survey or other data with which to determine acceptable use volumes on backcountry or fringe development sites and facilities. Such information will be critical in order to determine what levels of use are acceptable to watershed visitors. A method of determining user preferences and/or the limits at which user satisfaction and policy support begins to decline needs to be determined and conducted on a regular basis.

Workshop implications The following implications are drawn from the anecdotal comments elicited from the surveys and workshops documented in this assessment.

• Interpretive programs at points of interest – that are delivered at park entrances, visitor centers, shelters, and other fixed or static displays are currently or at risk of being under funded in future park budgets. Given the changing information available on the watershed, and the possibility of incorporating user input and policy information, these interpretive programs must be kept current, timely, and informative to the user.

• Interpretive programs in the field – that are delivered during hands-on interpretive experiences to youth, adult, or special populations at important sites or features within the watershed parks are not likely to be funded in future park budgets. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to supplement the operation of controlled excursions that increase the potential number of people who enjoy the watershed, and learn and begin to value the experience, while protecting sensitive areas.

• Youth camps – that deliver extended recreational and interpretive experiences to young populations are not likely to be funded with limited and

iii declining park agency budgets. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to supplement agency staff in the operation of youth camps that increase the percentage of visitors under controlled, least impact conditions to the environment and other users, and build public support for conservation and management efforts.

• Adult camps – can deliver the same experiences youth are availed to the larger adult populations, particularly the increasingly active older adult age groups. Like youth camps, adult programs can control the park experience and impact, and generate considerable public support and volunteerism. In fact, adult camps have been found to be effective in motivating and training volunteers who can conduct or guide other youth and adult camp programs. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to supplement agency staff in the organization, scheduling, housing, and other assistance.

• Corporate camps – can deliver the same experiences youth are availed to a controlled corporate camp or retreat experience. Like youth camps, corporate camp programs can provide a facility for management retreats, control the park experience and impact, and generate considerable corporate support and volunteerism. In fact, corporate camps have been found to be effective in motivating and harnessing corporate resources in a variety of ways ranging from maintenance and construction projects to the development of marketing and management procedures – often charging the corporation a fee for the facility and retreat experience in the process.

• Volunteer maintenance efforts – will be needed whereby organizations or group work parties provide backlogged renovation and repair projects that will not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer projects could be an adjunct to youth and adult group camp programs, or part of extended day-tripper events, or special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. Park agencies will need help to define, schedule, and organize maintenance programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

• Volunteer guides or ranger efforts – will be needed whereby organizations or individuals provide interpretive programs, tours, or excursions that would not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer guides and staff could help conduct youth and adult group camp programs, or extended day-tripper events, or special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. Park agencies will need help to define, schedule, and organize guide and ranger programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

Strategic alternatives Three alternative strategies were identified that could respond to the recreational demand pressures expected on the Upper Skagit Valley watershed along with recommendations for action.

• Alternative 1: increase facility capacity – would expand existing and develop new facilities to meet increased recreational demands throughout the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. The purpose of the watershed-wide expansion program would be to attract a larger volume and wider range of visitors and interests.

iv The watershed-wide development program could improve and/or increase the capacity of many existing facilities including trails and campsites in the backcountry areas, boat facilities and campgrounds along the waterfronts, and visitor centers and lodging accommodations along the scenic highways.

• Alternative 2: limit recreation use - would contain existing facility developments and limit the future use and development of additional park facilities and programs within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed.

A use containment program could limit development of and access to every facility including trails and campsites in the backcountry areas, boating facilities and campgrounds along the waterfronts, and visitor centers and lodging accommodations along the scenic highways.

• Alternative 3: manage facility capacity and increase group outreach - would improve or expand selective existing and develop selective new facilities to meet increased recreational interest in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. A strategic development program could increase facilities and programs that serve the interests of a large segment of the population that are easiest and least intrusive to accommodate at the fringes of the watershed.

For example, a strategic development approach might expand and develop visitor centers and lodging accommodations at the gateways along the scenic highways. A strategic program approach might also operate more group camps and outings as a way of increasing public use and exposure but under controlled impacts and schedules. The approach could also include more involvement of user groups in programming and park management activities.

At the same time, a strategic effort could be undertaken to contain existing facility developments and limit usage of selective park facilities and programs in the most fragile backcountry areas of the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. A strategic use containment program could limit development of and access to fragile backcountry trails and campsites to levels consistent with environmental and user carrying capacities.

For example, a strategic containment approach might allocate backcountry access on a reservation basis rather than first-come-first-serve as a means of equalizing availability and equity. A strategic containment program approach might also favor access for more group outings as a way of controlling impacts and schedules.

Recommendations For the reasons listed in chapter 5, this assessment recommends the SEEC pursue Alternative 3’s strategic approach. This assessment recommends SEEC help facilitate and implement the actions described in the preceding pages of this summary plus:

• Expand visitor centers and exhibits including virtual – whereby visitors can experience an increasing array of on-site or in-park experiences using interactive videos, websites, and center exhibitions. According to the survey information, most users have been and may continue to be day-trippers who drive through or intermittently stop at roadside attractions. More interactive exhibits, virtual or otherwise, could provide a more effective and satisfying introduction for the day- tripper increasing their support for park preservation efforts in the process, yet

v containing their impacts to controlled locations. Based on anecdotal comments, such exhibits are not likely to be funded with limited and declining budgets.

• Support development of clustered activity centers and facilities – outside watershed park boundaries at Newhalem and Winthrop, Sunshine Village and Manning that increase use capacity at locations that can be effectively contained and buffered. The watershed can not be made off-limits for the recreational needs of the increasing surrounding area populations and remain viable. Contained activity clusters, whether public and/or private, could increase user volumes in a contained or controlled manner, especially if managed under a reservation access system, that would be more effective and increase public support for the preservation of backcountry areas.

• Selectively improve frontcountry facilities – in environmentally capable frontcountry areas that increase use capacity and variety at locations that can be effectively contained and managed. Upgrade existing campgrounds and sites, to provide recreational vehicle hook-ups and group camp facilities, and consider expanding retreat and resort cabin facilities. Expand campsites that serve day- use and possibly some limited overnight group camps to support interpretive tours or excursions into appropriate backcountry areas as a means of increasing public exposure to the backcountry without overloading sensitive sites or trails.

• Selectively improve backcountry facilities – in environmentally capable backcountry areas that increase use capacity and variety at locations that can be effectively contained and managed. Upgrade backcountry trails, for example, that serve a wide variety of interests including anglers, day hikers, backpackers, and horse and pack animal trail users. Where appropriate, expand trail networks to provide access northwest of Ross Lake and in BC backcountry watershed areas, rock and alpine climbing locations, cultural and historical sites, wildlife viewing areas, and unique vistas.

SEEC role and responsibilities A strategic approach will require SEEC to continue to perform the following:

• Involvement - SEEC must continue to participate in planning efforts with other public and private agencies on both sides of the border if SEEC is to be aware of and have impact on selective facility and program development efforts. • Planning - SEEC should support efforts to analyze long-range recreation demands and needs, and existing and projected park conditions in order to recognize and be prepared to act on opportunities. • Priorities - SEEC must refine policies and outline actions to undertake should strategic opportunities arise that cannot be readily addressed by the agencies. • Commitment - SEEC must continue to provide or help fund appropriate staff expertise and budgets with which to implement strategic planning programs and projects when no other agency can or is able within a strategic time schedule.

As outlined in the recommended actions in the preceding pages of this summary, SEEC should continue to perform a strategic role helping to facilitate or fund selective program and facility developments by:

• Performing as a facilitator - where unique acquisition or development or program operation opportunities may occur that could eventually be implemented or operated by other public, nonprofit or private agencies. • Funding facilities and programs - on an emergency or as needed basis that no other agency can or is willing to provide.

vi Introduction 1.1 Context – setting and history 1 1.2 Objectives 2 1.3 Public involvement 2 1.4 Documentation 3 Inventory – existing facilities and programs 2.1 Archaeological and historical 5 2.2 Flora and fauna 6 2.3 Fishing 11 2.4 Water trails – water taxis, boat access, and campsites 14 2.5 Hiking trails – interpretive, park, and backcountry 20 2.6 Horse trails – backcountry 34 2.7 Biking trails – mountain bike and on-road tours 38 2.8 Winter trails – downhill, cross-county, and snowmobile 42 2.9 Mountaineering and sport climbing – alpine and rock 46 2.10 Campsites – day use, tent, and vehicle 46 2.11 Interpretation – sites, centers, programs, and tours 50 2.12 Accommodations – in park 54 2.13 Inventory implications 55 Recreational demand 3.1 User surveys – place of residence 1985-2004 57 3.2 Service area population forecasts – 1980-2025 60 3.3 User surveys recreation activity participation 1988/2004 63 3.4 WA IAC recreation activity participation 2001 64 3.5 SEEC recreational assessment 66 3.6 Projection of recreation activity in 2005 68 3.7 Projection of additional recreation activity 2005-2025 69 3.8 Capture rates – Ross Lake National Recreation Area 70 3.9 Recreation demand qualifications and implications 70 3.10 Analytical implications 71 Workshop issues and observations 4.1 Archaeological and historical 73 4.2 Flora and fauna 73 4.3 Fishing 74 4.4 Water trails – water taxis, boat access, and campsites 74 4.5 Hiking trails – interpretive, park, and backcountry 74 4.6 Horse trails – backcountry 75 4.7 Biking trails – mountain bike and on-road tours 75 4.8 Winter trails – downhill, cross-county, and snowmobile 76 4.9 Mountaineering and sport climbing – alpine and rock 76 4.10 Campsites – day use, tent, and vehicle 76 4.11 Interpretation – sites, centers, programs, and tours 76 4.12 Accommodations – in park 77 4.13 General observations of workshop participants 77 4.14 Workshop implications 77 Strategic alternatives 5.1 Alternative 1 – increase facility capacity 79 5.2 Alternative 2 – limit recreation usage 80 5.3 Alternative 3 – manage capacity/increase group outreach 80 5.4 Recommendations 82 5.5 SEEC role and responsibilities 86 Appendices A SEEC active and completed grants 1985-2004 87 B Mailing lists – US and BC

vii viii Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 Context • Setting and history - the Skagit River originates near Allison Pass in Manning Provincial Park and flows westerly into the valley. Glacial actions carved the Skagit River Valley creating hanging valleys with waterfalls that plunge into Ross Lake amidst steep, granite peaks reaching 8,972 feet or 2,736 meters (Silvertip Peak) covered with large snowfields and extensive alpine meadows. The mountains create a rain-shadow climate that is drier than the remainder of the Cascade slopes and that results in a unique ecological unit with flora more in common with valleys further to the east.

• Dam construction - the Skagit Valley remained undisturbed and little-noticed until 1918, when Seattle City Light was granted the necessary US government permits for a hydro-electric project and began work on the first dam at Gorge Canyon.

Seattle City Light subsequently built 3 more dams at Diablo Canyon, Newhalem Creek, and Ruby Creek. Construction on the dam at Ruby Creek began in 1937. The dam at Ruby Creek, completed in 1949, was renamed Ross Dam in memory of City Light’s first superintendent, James D Ross.

• High Ross Dam Project - City Light originally proposed raising Ross Dam by 120 feet to control flooding on the US side, generate more power, and increase Ross Lake’s reservoir capacity. The “High Ross Dam Project” proposal would have flooded more than 5,000 acres of prime wildlife habitat and recreation lands in British Columbia as well as the unique wetlands and giant western red cedars in Big Beaver Valley. The proposal was controversial on both sides of the border.

In 1941, the International Joint Committee approved the High Ross Dam Project as a means of generating more power in support of the efforts for World War II. The project was delayed due to road construction requirements and flooding compensation disagreements until 1946 when Seattle City Light hired Curly Chittenden to supervise the clearing of the land for the reservoir. Chittenden commenced work but eventually quit the project and joined efforts to save the area from flooding.

A flooding compensation agreement was reached in 1967 but was strongly opposed by the ROSS Committee (Run Out Skagit Spoilers) comprised of American and Canadian citizens.

In 1968, the US Congress established the North Cascades National Park and the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. The BC Government declared the Skagit Valley a provincial recreation area in 1973, and a provincial park in 1997.

• SEEC and the Endowment Fund - the issue of raising Ross Dam was finally resolved in 1984 after lengthy negotiations between British Columbia and the City of Seattle. The treaty, that was formally ratified between Canada and the United States, stipulates that Seattle City Light will not raise Ross Dam for at least 80 years (until the year 2064) in exchange for power purchased at rates equivalent to what would have resulted from raising the dam.

1 A unique part of the agreement was the establishment of the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission (SEEC) and Endowment Fund, whose mandate is to conserve and protect wilderness and wildlife habitat and enhance recreation opportunities. The City of Seattle and the Province of British Columbia contributed a total of $5,000,000 (US) to the fund. The fund will last for the life of the agreement with interest and additional payments based on power purchases.

Eight SEEC commissioners and alternates are charged with administering the fund – 4 appointed by the Premier of British Columbia and 4 by the Mayor of Seattle. The Commission meets each year to review project proposals, monitor work, and learn of development in the valley. The Seattle City Council and the Province of British Columbia must approve the Commission’s annual budget, which includes all project funding.

The Commission does not manage any lands. Rather, the Commission cooperates with government agencies in the US and Canada who are responsible for land management. Most land is publicly owned and administered by park and forest agencies in each country.

• SEEC projects - each year, the Commission has solicited project proposals that further SEEC goals. For example, in years past the Commission has funded:

• botanical studies and wildlife research, as well as fishery studies of Ross Lake, • construction of a new campground near Hozomeen in British Columbia, reconstruction of several existing campgrounds in the US, and upgrade of several trails and trailheads, and • annual environmental field and wilderness camps for school students.

The Commission has also considered, but not accomplished, the acquisition of privately owned lands within some portions of the valley to preserve wilderness character.

In 2004, the SEEC suspended the normal project funding cycle in order to free time and funds to better identify and define a more appropriate future role and focus for the expenditure of the endowment fund.

1.2 Purpose The SEEC commissioned this needs assessment of the recreation use of the Skagit River watershed above Ross Dam and the surrounding areas that bear upon activities in the watershed. The study area was defined to include portions of Skagit and Dewdney Provincial Forests, Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Cascade Recreation Area, and E.C. Manning Provincial Park in British Columbia; and North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Pasayten Wilderness, and Okanogan National Forest in the US.

The specific objectives of this assessment were to investigate and provide direction and trend analysis of the following:

• Inventory existing facilities – developed in the past 20 years in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and the northern region of Washington State that bear on the Upper Skagit watershed.

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1 - upper Skagit River Watershed Recreation Map Insert base map

4 Chapter 2: Inventory

The following inventory was compiled from Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, North Cascade National Park and Park Service sources, and reviewed by participants of the workshops.

2.1 Archaeological and historical • Skagit (Nlakapamux – Lower Thompson) Indians – and other mountain- oriented native peoples roamed through and occupied the valley from pre-history times. These peoples hunted, fished, gathered plants, and quarried “chert” - a locally abundant variety of quartz. Chert, a metamorphic rock of marine origin, was used, like flint, to manufacture stone tools and implements over a span of at least 8,400 years. The term “Hozomeen”, derived from the Salish language, means “sharp like a knife”.

Quarries of Hozomeen chert and other significant prehistoric sites are scattered across the mountainsides. Semi-permanent settlements were located at the north end of Ross Lake including a First Nations meeting place at the current site of the International Point Day Use Area. Other seasonal campsites were likely located along the east shore of the lake below the current water level along the eastern banks.

American archaeologists have identified pottery shards found at the campsites that originated in the southern US indicating the valley was an important trade route for native peoples.

• Whatcom Trail – Captain Walter de Lacy of the US Army founded a trail from Whatcom (Bellingham Bay) into the interior in 1858. The Whatcom Trail followed the Skagit River in the US and Snass Creek in BC to the Dewdney Trail. The trail was eventually abandoned due to the steep terrain. The current Skagit River Trail follows a section of the historic Whatcom Trail between 26 Mile Bridge and Sumallo Grove.

• Trappers and miners - may have visited the area as early as 1824. Gold miners occupied the valley areas in 1877 working larger mining sites located at the northeast end of the lake and at Ruby Creek in the US.

In 1910, Dan Greenwalt and WA Stevens from the US reported a gold strike near Steamboat (Shawatum) Mountain causing prospectors to flock to the area. Three town sites were constructed in the area providing 2 hotels, 3 general stores, 2 restaurants, 2 barber shops, a rooming house, several residences, a real estate office, sawmill, a newspaper mill, and a newspaper (the Hope-Steamboat Nugget). Between 300 and 550 miners were prospecting in the area around 1911. A Board of Trade was established and 7 gold mining companies were incorporated. In 1911, however, it was revealed the area had been laced or salted with gold dust and that there was no evidence of real gold deposits. Greenwalt and Stevens had sold their stock and made off with $90,000. Steamboat became a ghost town overnight.

5 BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1Steamboat – Site of 1910 gold rush based on fraudulent claims. Shawatum Area supported 3 townsites and over 550 miners Mountain before fraud was revealed in 1911 causing gold rush and town to collapse. 2 Chittenden Fire pits located within the meadows, drying pits in the higher elevations. 3 Whitworth Old gold mine site located within the meadows. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 5 Newhalem Prehistoric rock shelter located near the Visitor Center. 6 Happy Creek Potentially historic millsite that supplied hydraulic power by flume water from the creek to the Ruby Hydraulic Gold Mining Company in 1898. A 4-mile flume connected the millsite to the mining camp, now flooded by Ross Lake. Millsite remnants include iron pipe and a belt drive mill, decaying lumber, and the trench that carried the flume. 7 Perry Creek Historic trapper’s shelter located along Perry Creek off Little Beaver Trail.

• Homesteaders - tried farming along the flats that are now covered by the reservoirs of the Ross, Diablo, and Gorge Dams. The Whitworth Ranch was located in the area around Whitworth and Chittenden Meadows. The McMillan Homestead was located on the west shore of Ross Lake on the south side of Big Beaver Creek.

BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 4Bonnevier Charlie Bonnevier, a Swedish immigrant, built a Homestead homestead near the east gate of Manning Park. 3 Whitworth Henry Robert Whitworth, an English immigrant, Homestead developed and operated a 256-hectare cattle ranch from 1905 to 1909 that included a 10-room ranch house, outbuildings, and a stable built with lumber cleared from the site. Whitworth also purchased the Cawley Ranch that later became Chittenden Meadows. The Whitworth’s and their 5 daughters left the area due to illness. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 8Roland Point Tommy Rowland (also spelled Roland) Homestead – an Homestead eccentric settler/miner who built a homestead in the area in the late 1800s. 9Roland Point USFS lookout remains (footprint and log outhouse) Lookout located on the summit of Roland Point.

• Sunshine Village - located on Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) at the western edge of Skagit Valley Provincial Park was used as a Japanese internment camp during World War II. It was also the site of a logging mill.

• Other noteworthy events - Jack Kerouac, the American “Beat” poet and novelist, was employed during the summer of 1956 at the fire lookout station on Desolation Peak. Several of Kerouac’s writings, including “The Dharma Bums” and “Desolation Angels” were greatly influenced by the summer he spent on Desolation Peak. Northwest poet Gary Snyder was also employed during the same period at Crater and Soudough Mountain fire lookout stations.

2.2 Flora and fauna The Upper Skagit River Watershed recreation area is influenced by the moist coastal and the semi-arid interior weather systems. The rain shadow effect of the

6 mountains limits the annual rainfall. The diversity of ecosystems provides habitat for species of flora and fauna common to interior and coastal climates.

• Trees - Sitka spruce and broadleaf maple are native to the Upper Skagit River Watershed – species that typically occur more frequently closer to the coast. Ponderosa pine and trembling aspen – species that are common to the interior, are found in meadows along the Skagit River Valley floors.

BC vegetation reflects the transition between coastal and interior climates consisting of 3 biogeoclimatic zones and 1 primary sub-zone generally occurring at the following elevations:

Vegeration zones and sub-zones meters Coastal Western Hemlock 400 1,200 Sub-alpine Mountain Hemlock 1,200 1,700 Transitional Engelmann Spruce/Sub-alpine Fir Parkland 1,700 2,000 Alpine Tundra 1,700 2,000

Tree species in BC include Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Amabilis Fir (Abies amabilis), Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata), Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), Engelmann Spruce (Picea engelmannii), and Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta).

• Vegetation - Red rhododendron shrubs flourish in the upper valley – but have not been found anywhere else in the region. Lupine, columbine, honeysuckle, and wild rose are also common. Pine mushroom and chanterelle concentrations are located in Skagit Provincial Park near 26-Mile Bridge – and represent a major target of harvesters. Poachers are jeopardized in turn, when foraging in the brush during hunting season. Cedar boughs, salal, and other vegetation are also illegally harvested.

• Insects - 52 species of butterfly, a very high concentration, have been identified in the area at the north end of Ross Lake. Propertius dustywing, a new red-listed butterfly subspecies has been found in the northwest end of the lake in the Redstem Ceanothus or Snowbrush vegetation not found elsewhere in the region.

Pine beetles have begun to migrate into and damage the northeastern forests as a result of warmer winters. Pine beetle infestations kill the trees creating an increasing fire hazard and limiting recreational use.

Threatened and endangered amphibians present in the North Cascades (US) Status Common name Latin name US WA Cascades frog Rana cascadae SC Columbia spotted frog Rana luteiventris SC C Northern red-legged frog Rana aurora aurora SC Tailed frog Ascaphus truei SC Western toad Bufo boreas SC C Yuma myotis Myotis yumanensis SC E=endangered, T=threatened, SC=species of concern, C=candidate.

• Birds – over 200 species frequent the area including the great blue heron, kingfisher, and harlequin duck occupy the watershed area especially along the Skagit River and Ross Lake. Eagles, owls, and migratory mountain bluebirds frequent the valley and roadway corridors.

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Upland birds, such as ruffed, spruce, and blue grouse are known to reside throughout much of the BC side of the study area. Ptarmigans and wild pigeons have been sighted in most of the alpine areas. Great-horned owls, willow and blue grouse occur in particular valleys, and spruce grouse frequent the Silverdaisy area.

A common loons nesting ground is located at Hozomeen Lake. Spotted owls have been sighted around the northeast end of Ross Lake.

Threatened and endangered birds present in the North Cascades (US) Status Common name Latin name US WA American peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatum SC E Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus T T Black-backed woodpecker Picoides albolarvatus C Ferruginous hawk Buteo regalis SC T Flammulated owl Otus flammeolus – eastside only C Fringed myotis Myotis thysanodes SC Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos C Harlequin duck Histrionicus histrionicus SC Keen’s myotis Myotis keenii C Lewis’ woodpecker Melanerpes lewis C Little willow flycather Empidonax traillii brewsteri SC Long-eared myotis Myotis evotis SC Long-legged myotis Myotis volans SC Marbled murrelet Brachyramphus marmoratus TT marmoratus Merlin Falco columbarius C Northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis SC T Northern spotted owl Strix occidentalis caurina T E Olive-sided flycatcher Contopus borealis SC Pacific fisher Martes perinanti pacifica SC E Pileated woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus C Small-footed myotis Myotis ciliolabrum SC Vaux’s swift Chaetura vauxi C Yuma myotis Myotis yumanensis SC E=endangered, T=threatened, SC=species of concern, C=candidate.

• Large animals - moose and elk are migrating south into the Skagit River areas. Native mountain goat herds are scattered throughout the upper elevations of the valley in lesser numbers than in years past – possibly due to illegal poaching from the highways.

Increasing concentrations of deer wintering along the Skagit River attract cougar and gray wolf. Gray wolf have spread south from Canada with an estimated 5-8 packs concentrated south to I-90.

Black bear occupy the floodplain at the northwest end of Ross Lake. Grizzly bear occupy the backcountry at the northwest end of the lake in the vicinity of Silver Lake-Galene Trail and south on the eastside of the lake along the ridgelines.

Grizzly bears are gradually spreading south from Canada with an estimated 5-20 bears concentrated along the Cascade Mountains south to I-90. The ultimate goal is to increase the population to about 100 bears within this area.

10 According to anecdotal comments, conflicts have been reported between backcountry hikers and grizzly bear, particularly at trailhead campsites. A moratorium has been temporary instituted on further reintroducing grizzlies until hiker education and backcountry food caches have been installed.

Lynx, coyote, beaver, chipmunk, and marten also occupy all areas of the watershed. Less common but also present are mountain beaver, muskrat, mink, squirrel, ermine, lynx, fisher, weasel, and bobcat.

Threatened and endangered animals present in the North Cascades (US) Status Common name Latin name US WA California wolverine Gulo gulo luteus SC T Canada lynx Lynx canadensis T T Gray wolf Canus lupus E E Grizzly bear Ursus arctos T E Townsend’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus townsendii SC T Western gray squirrel Sciurus griseus griseus SC T E=endangered, T=threatened, SC=species of concern, C=candidate.

• Hunting – is allowed for deer, elk, mountain goat, and other game subject to licensing conditions in Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Ross Lake National Recreational Area, and Okanogan National Forest during seasons. Hunting is not allowed in Manning Provincial Park or the North Cascades National Park. Campgrounds are closed during most of the season but hunters can park in the trailheads, day use areas, entry roads or alongside the roadway.

2.3 Fishing Archaeological records indicate humans have been fishing in the Cascade Mountains for at least 8,000 years. Native Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Eastern Brook trout are the most commonly caught fish in Ross Lake.

Bull trout have disappeared from most of their former range – and have been red-tagged a species of concern by the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife (DFW), and declared a threatened species by the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Restrictive fishing regulations are in effect in most places for bull trout – which also apply to Dolly Varden char since they are difficult to distinguish from bull trout.

Threatened and endangered fish present in the North Cascades (US) Status Common name Latin name US WA Bull trout Salvelinus confluentus T Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawtscha T Westslope cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi SC E=endangered, T=threatened, SC=species of concern, C=candidate.

Fishing on the BC side of the valley has been rated some of the best fly-fishing in BC, some say North America. Fishing on the BC side has been limited to catch and release and fly fishing since 1992 – causing a decline in the number of anglers (though fishing remains the highest participant activity in the valley). Fish size has been increasing, however, due to the catch and release policy. Fishing licenses are required on the BC side from the Fish & Wildlife Branch of the BC Ministry of Environment.

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The Ross Lake fishing season is from 1 July to 31 October with a limit of 3 Rainbow trout at least 13 inches in length. A Washington State fishing license is required on the US side subject to all Washington Game Fish regulations, seasons, and catch limits. Only artificial flies or lures with barb-less hooks are allowed – no bait fishing. Fishing is limited to 1 line with up to 3 hooks under immediate control.

Site Limit BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1Upper Skagit Catch and release with fly tackle only in effect 0 River upstream from Ross Lake since 1992. 2 Ross Lake Season July through October – char release, 3 trout 3 daily at lease 33 cm in size with a bait ban. 3 Sumallo River Season July through October subject to bait ban. 3 4 Lightning Lake No power boats. 3 US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 5 Ross Lake Season July through October – limit 3 Rainbow trout at 3 least 13 inches in size. 6 Ruby Creek Entire creek is closed to protect spawning and rearing 0 areas. 7 Big Beaver Creek Closed 0.25 miles (0.4 kilometers) upstream to protect 3 spawning and rearing areas – fishing allowed thereafter. 8All other Closed 1.0 mile (1.6 kilometers) upstream to protect 3 tributaries spawning and rearing areas – fishing allowed thereafter. 9 Lakes DFW stocks trout in upwards of 60 freshwater lakes in 3-5 the North Cascades National Park and US Forest boundaries (9% of backcountry hikers are anglers.) Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park Service, and WA Department of Fish & Wildlife

The Scott Resource Services (SRS) has conducted surveys of the upper Skagit and Sumallo Rivers in Canada since 1986. In 2002, SRS interviewed 792 anglers who expended 16,422 hours of fly fishing to harvest 8,042 Rainbow trout (and 198 Bull trout and 2 Cutthroat in the lower Skagit) for an average of 0.46 Rainbow trout per hour of effort. Angler catch rates vary depending on lake water level and angling conditions that vary season to season and year to year.

The SRS 2002 survey identified the following characteristics and opinions of fishing conditions in the Upper Skagit and Sumallo Rivers:

BC WA Other BC Other Origin 82.0% 8.0% 5.0% 5.0% <16 16-30 30-45 >45 Age 2.6% 29.6% 36.6% 31.1% Excellent Good Fair Poor Experience 52.1% 39.2% 7.7% 1.0% Just right Too many Don’t know Too few Use 82.7% 12.1% 4.9% 0.3% Source: SRS – Scott Resource Services

According to anglers and park managers in BC, some river and lake shoreline have become overgrown, reducing the number of fishing access points to all but the most experienced and knowledgeable anglers. The overgrown vegetation, however, has increased shoreline habitat and has likely contributed to the

13 increasing fish stocks. Clearing limits may be useful to impose on more river stretches, particularly along the shorelines that are easy for less experienced or committed anglers to reach from Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3).

Fish resource management is a bigger problem on Ross Lake than on the Skagit River – since fishing on the lake usually is conducted by less experienced and dedicated anglers. Most river fishing is self-policed, since 1 person oversees conservation and enforcement during the season for an average of 3 days per week on the BC side. Ross Lake is considered a US territory overseen by US Fish & Wildlife Service personnel.

Harvesting policies need to be coordinated in the future between BC and the US to continue to improve harvesting numbers and size in the lake and river. Possible solutions could involve shortening the season, limiting the catch, and/or imposing more catch and release restrictions.

2.4 Water trails – river runs, lake ferry/taxi, boat access, and campsites Upper Skagit River runs – can be accomplished on portions of the Upper Skagit River from Sumallo south to Ross Lake. Kayak runs on the Upper Skagit depend on high water levels in late fall and early spring. The riverbed contains numerous snags and debris and is considered a limited, high-risk experience suitable only for the most experienced.

Lower Skagit River kayak, canoe, and rafting runs – can be accomplished on the Lower Skagit River from Goodell Creek below the North Cascades Visitors Center at Newhalem south though Marblemount, Rockport, and other river towns to Skagit Bay for a 79-93 mile stretch depending on fork meandering. Beginner to experienced class II enthusiasts can navigate the river run. Trips are also conducted by 18 different commercial river rafting guide companies operating in late fall and early spring depending on river flows and starting points.

The upper-most run begins at a launch site at Goodell Creek inside the Ross Lake National Recreation Area and extends 28 miles to a take-out at Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport at the SR-530 Bridge. The 28-mile class II stretch can be run in 4-5 hours and must contend with sweeper, logjams, cold and swift water, minor rapids (chutes) and other hazards. One-way shuttle services are provided by a number of river guide operators.

The river stretch between Marblemount and Rockport flows through the Skagit River Bald Eagle Natural Area owned and protected by the Nature Conservancy. This river stretch has the highest concentration of wintering bald eagles from November through February. Boaters are asked to launch between 10 am and noon, minimizing noise and movement, and refraining from stopping between Marblemount and Rockport during the eagle season. The river stretch is also an impressive salmon-spawning stream during autumn migrations.

The stretch of the Skagit River from Marblemount to Rockport, and the confluence with the Cascade River at Marblemount are part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.

Upper Skagit River (below Diablo Dam) River mile 1 Goodell Creek A rough put-in ramp located on the north side of the 0 Launch Skagit River opposite the mouth of Goodell Creek.

14 Upper Skagit River (below Diablo Dam) River mile 2 Copper Creek A rough put-in ramp located off a dirt road on the 12 Launch north side of the Skagit River between mileposts 111 and 112 opposite the mouth of Copper Creek. 3Marblemount An alternate put-in or take-out rough launch located 17 Bridge off a dirt road that doubles back north and under the Skagit River Bridge at Marblemount on the south bank from Cascade River Road. 4 Howard Miller A concrete boat ramp take-out and put-inlocated south 28 Steelhead Park - of the SR-530 Bridge over the Skagit River in Howard Rockport Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport. Total Upper Skagit River in miles 28 Source: The Mountaineers

Ross Lake - is a reservoir created the damming the Skagit River. The lake is 20 miles (32 kilometers) long at an elevation of 1,600 feet (487 meters) with a water temperature of about 50 degrees F (10 degrees C). The lake is usually at full pool (1,602.5 feet or 488.8 meters from late June through mid-September. Under the licensing agreement with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Seattle Light must keep the lake at full pool from the 1st of July to Labor Day for recreational boating use - depending on adequate annual rainfall and runoff.

During other months of the year, the drawing down of Ross Lake reservoir exposes rocks, stumps, snags, and other underwater hazards discouraging water skiing and some motorboat activities. Floating logs, debris, shallows, and submerged obstacles are a boating hazard at all times.

Diablo Lake - is a reservoir also created by the damming of the Skagit River below Ross Dam. Diablo Lake is usually at full pool from late June through mid- September. Water levels may fluctuate, however, by up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) on a daily basis as the reservoir is drawn down. The lake is a popular winter paddling area due to the ice formations visible from Horsetail Falls.

Water taxi and ferry services - are provided by Seattle City Light between Lake Diablo and Ross Dam; and by Ross Lake Resort on Ross Lake under the following service and schedule arrangements:

Ferry/taxi service 5Diablo Lake Operated by Seattle City Light (206-684-3030) on a 2/day Ferry daily basis between Diablo Boat Dock and Ross Dam from June through September. Handcarry craft can be portaged from the ferry landing 1 mile and 600 feet in elevation around the dam to south end of Ross Lake. 6 Ross Lake Taxi Operated by Ross Lake Resort (206-386-4437 or a On- courtesy phone located at the bottom of Ross Lake call Dam on the eastern side) on an on-call basis. The taxi drops-off or picks-up up to 6 hikers and handcarry craft from anywhere on Ross Lake from mid-June through October. The resort also provides portage service for a fee for craft less than 14 feet in length by truck hauling between Diablo and Ross Lakes. The resort also rents handcarry and motorized craft. The resort also sells fuel – the only source on the lake. Source: Seattle City Light and Ross Lake Resort

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Boat access ramps - are provided on Ross Lake, Diablo Lake, Gorge Lake, and the lower reaches of the Skagit River in the following locations:

Location Nmbr BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park 7 Ross Lake Day Graded concrete boat ramp located at the north end of 1 Use Area Ross Lake usable from mid-June to September depending on lake draw down level. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 8 Hozomeen Graded concrete boat ramps located at the north end 2 Campground of Ross Lake usable from mid-June to September depending on lake draw down level. 9 Colonial Creek Graded concrete boat ramp located at the south end of 1 Campground Diablo Lake usable from mid-June to September depending on lake draw down level. Handcarry craft can be boated 5 miles on Diablo Lake then portaged 1 mile and 600 feet in elevation around Ross Dam to the south end of Ross Lake. 10 Ross Lake Resort Will haul boats less than 14 feet in length by truck 0 around Ross Dam to the south end of Ross Lake for a fee during the months of Resort operation from mid- June through October. 11 Gorge Lake Graded concrete boat ramp located at the east end of 1 Gorge Lake. 12 Goodell Creek Graded concrete boat ramp located below the bridge 1 Campground to North Cascades Visitor Center at Goodell Creek Campground accessing the lower reaches of the Skagit River. Total boat ramps 6 Source: Skagit Valley Provincial Park, SEEC, and National Park Service

Canoe/kayak launch sites – can be informally hand-launched at any of the boat ramps listed above. In addition, handcarry launch sites are provided at the following locations:

BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park Location Nmbr 13 Silver Lake Canoe launching site located on the shoreline of Silver 1 Lake for handcarry use only. 14 Lightning Lake Canoe launching site located at the east end of 1 Lightning Lake Day Use Area for handcarry use only. Total handcarry only 2 Source: Skagit Valley/Manning Provincial Parks

Ross Lake boat access campsites - 19 boat-access backcountry campgrounds are located along Ross Lake with pit toilets, fire grates, picnic tables, and wildlife-resistant food storage boxes. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays and can be obtained from the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount or the Hozomeen Ranger Station on a first-come, first-serve basis.

No personal watercraft (jet skis) are allowed on Ross Lake – no motorized vehicles are allowed on the BC section of the Skagit River. Personal flotation devices, oars, bailing buckets, and running lights are required on all craft.

Winds can be strong and most commonly blow north in the afternoon. The safest paddling is along the eastern lakeshore where most camp and trail access sites are located. A comfortable padding distance for most groups is 5-7 miles (8-11 kilometers) per day.

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The Ross Lake shoreline is rocky, preventing the beaching of most motorized boats and other fiberglass craft. Boats with motors prefer to anchor at campsites that are provided with docks.

Campsite party size is limited to 12 persons. In recent years, Boy Scouts have used Ross Lake water and hiking trails to complete certification for their combination hike/canoe merit badge. The 24-30 person scout groups typically split with one group completing the water trails portion, then alternate with the other to complete the hiking trails portion. The scouts use campsites to capacity when converging or overlapping with other non-scout water or trail users.

Commercial operators and educational guides make group use of the campsites and under current management policies are the only users who can reserve campsites in advance. Group campsites Trail access I Boat dock I I Ross Lake Ross Dam Hozomeen I I I Boat access campground – from: mile km Mile Km I I I Sites 1 Green Point 0.8 1.3 21.4 34.4 X X X 5 2 Cougar Island 2.4 3.9 19.7 31.7 X 2 3 Roland Point 4.1 6.5 18.1 29.1 X X 1 4 McMillan 4.3 6.9 17.8 28.7 X X 3 5 Big Beaver 4.5 7.3 17.6 28.3 X X 7 6 Spencer’s 4.4 7.1 17.7 28.5 X 2 7 May Creek 5.0 8.0 17.2 27.7 X X 1 8 Rainbow Point 6.2 10.0 15.9 25.6 X X 3 9 Devil’s Junction 9.2 14.8 12.9 20.8 X X 1 10 Ten Mile Island 9.9 15.9 12.2 19.7 4 11 Dry Creek 10.4 16.7 11.8 19.0 2 12 Ponderosa 10.9 17.6 11.2 18.0 X 3 13 Lodgepole 11.4 18.4 10.7 17.3 X X 3 14 Lightning Creek Stock Camp 11.8 18.9 10.4 16.7 X 3 15 Lightning Creek Boat Camp 12.0 19.3 10.2 16.3 X X 6 16 Cat Island 13.0 20.8 9.2 14.8 X 4 17 Little Beaver 15.1 24.3 7.0 11.3 X X 5 18 Boundary Bay 16.5 26.5 5.7 9.1 X 3 19 Silver Creek 20.3 32.6 1.9 3.0 X X 3 Total sites on Ross Lake 61 Source: SEEC

Diablo Lake boat access campsites – 3 boat-access campsites are located around Diablo Lake with pit toilets, fire grates, picnic tables, and wildlife resistant food storage boxes. No personal watercraft (jet skis) are allowed on Diablo Lake. Personal flotation devices, oars, bailing buckets, and running lights are required on all craft. Group campsites Trail access I Boat dock I I Diablo Lake campsites I I I Sites 20 Buster Brown – buoys only 21 Hidden Cove 22 Thunder Point Total sites on Diablo Lake Source: National Park Service

19 2.5 Hiking trails – Interpretive, park, backcountry, and lookouts Interpretive trails – that are handicap accessible are located at major visitor or trailhead points along Hope-Princeton Highway, in the International Day Use area at the north end of Ross Lake, and along the North Cascades Highway SR-20. The trails provide a variety of interpretive experiences of flora and fauna, water features, and spectacular scenic views.

BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park Accessible park trails Miles 1 Chittenden Meadows Interpretive loop trail begins at the 2.0 suspension bridge and continues through Chittenden Meadow wild flowers, prairie grasses, and ponderosa pine. Located 1 mile north of Ross Lake campground. 2 Sumallo Grove Handicap accessible interpretive trail with 0.2 picnic facilities extends through old growth Douglas fir and western red cedar forest located on Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) next to the Skagit River Trail. 3 Rhododendron Flats Interpretive trail extends through wild 0.2 rhododendron fields located on Hope- Princeton Highway (BC-3) next to the Skagit River. The Pacific rhododendron (a BC protected species) flowers in early June. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 4 North Cascades Visitor Accessible interpretive trail extends through Center – Newhalem old growth forest habitat around the North Cascades Visitor Center complex. 5 Newhalem Creek Accessible interpretive trail with amphitheater, picnic, tent and RV camping extends through old growth forest and Skagit River habitat in the Newhalem area. 6 Sterling Munro – Interpretive boardwalk (330 feet – 120 0.006 Newhalem meters) extends through Newhalem area with views of Picket Range 7 River Loop – Newhalem Accessible interpretive trail extends along 1.8 the Skagit River shoreline habitat from North Cascades Visitor Center to the campground at Newhalem Creek. 8 To Know a Tree – Accessible interpretive trail extends through Newhalem woodlands in Newhalem with informational signs providing information on tree species. 9 Trail of the Cedars – Accessible interpretive trail extends through Newhalem old growth cedar forest in Newhalem. 10 Rock Shelter – Newhalem Interpretive boardwalk extends above 0.25 Newhalem Creek to a viewing platform in front of a large, overhanging boulder used as an Indian campsite about 1,350 years ago. 11 Gorge Overlook – Gorge Accessible interpretive paved trail offers Dam views of deep canyons, Gorge Lake, and Gorge Dam from SR-20 trailhead. 12 Thunder Woods – Accessible interpretive trail extends through Colonial Creek old growth woodlands in Colonial Creek Campground Camp off the south arm of Diablo Lake. 13 Diablo Lake Overlook Accessible interpretive site with spectacular views, map, and detailed geology exhibit from SR-20 overlook of Diablo Lake.

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Accessible park trails Miles 14 Happy Forest Trail – Accessible interpretive boardwalk extends 0.3 Happy Creek through ancient forest along Happy Creek from SR-20 overlook. 15 Ruby Creek Trail – Ruby Interpretive trail leads to Ruby Creek and Creek south of Ross Lake from SR-20 overlook. 16 Rainy Lake Trail – Rainy Accessible interpretive paved trail with 1.6 Pass picnic facilities leads to Rainy Lake, waterfall, and glacier view from SR-20 overlook at Rainy Pass. 17 Washington Pass Accessible interpretive loop trail with picnic 0.15 Overlook facilities leads to a spectacular view from a 700-foot (200-meter) bluff from SR-20 overlook. 18 Trail of the Obelisk – Accessible interpretive trail with picnic Hozomeen facilities, playground, boat ramp, tent and RV campground located in Hozomeen campground. Accessible park trails Miles Source: National Park Service

Park site trails – are generally handicap accessible multipurpose trails provided at major dam and park facilities along the North Cascades Highway SR-20. The trails provide access to the dam sites, waterfalls, or serve as perimeter trails within park campground facilities.

BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park Park site trails Miles 1 Beaver Pond Trail extends from the Manning Park Visitor 500 m Centre through prime birdwatching areas during May-june.. 2 Rein Orchid Trail extends from the Gibson Pass Road 500 m parking lot through orchids and other bog flowering flora during June-July. 3 Rhododendron Flats Trail extends from parking area on BC 3 through flowering stands of red rhododendrons that bloom June 1-15. 4 Canyon Trail Trail extends from Coldspring Campground 2.0 km along both sides of the Similkameen River through plant life and geological formations. 5 Dry Ridge Trail Trail extends from Cascade Lookout parking lot through series of viewpoints. 6 Engineers Loop Trail extends from West Gate through heritage points in BC’s development. 7 Paintbrush Trail Trail extends from Naturalist Hut at 1.0 km Blackwall Peak through sub-alpine ecosystem in peak bloom during mid-July to mid-August. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 8 Rockport State Park Park trails circle the park boundary and 5.0 access the old growth Douglas fir forest in Rockport State Park. 9 Gorge Overlook and Accessible loop trail extends from the Gorge Creek Falls Gorge Overlook rest stop on SR-20 at milepost 123 at 3 miles east of Newhalem to Gorge Creek Falls (242 foot – 74 kilometer) waterfall.

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Park site trails Miles 10 Diablo Lake Trail Park trail extends along the south side of 3.8 Diablo Lake from Diablo Lake overlook on SR-20 to the access road below Ross Dam. 11 Ross Dam Trail Park trail descends 500 feet in elevation 1.0 from SR-20 (milepost 134) south to the south side of Ross Lake and then to Ross Dam. Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks and National Park Service

Backcountry trails - provide a variety of experiences ranging from forays through ancient cedar forests of Big Beaver Valley and the scenic East Bank Trail to panoramic vistas from the historic fire lookout atop Desolation Peak. The backcountry trail system provides world-class opportunities for wilderness backpacking which is one of the most valued recreational activities in the North Cascades. North Cascades National Park is one of the largest road-less areas in the country. Trail information is available from the North Cascades National Park at 360-856-5700 or the website at www.nps.gov/noca.

A water taxi provided by Ross Lake Resort (206-386-4437 – or a courtesy phone located at the bottom of the Ross Lake Dam on the eastern side) will drop-off or pick-up hikers at any of the trailheads on Ross Lake. Rates are per one-way boat ride for up to 6 persons.

Backcountry permits are required year round for all overnight stays in the North Cascades National Park Service complex. Permits are specific to a site or zone each night of the itinerary and may be obtained from the Hozomeen Ranger Station, Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount, North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem, Method Valley Visitor Center in Winthrop, or National Park headquarters in Sedro-Woolley. Backcountry permits are free – there are no backcountry campsite reservations for the general public. Permits are not required for day use or for camping in car-accessed campgrounds along SR-20 or at the drive-in campground at Hozomeen.

Backcountry hiking parties are limited to 12 pairs of eyes (persons and stock animals where animals are allowed) along trails and in established camps, 12 people in designated cross-country zones, and 6 pairs of eyes in all other cross- country areas. Backpackers may use llamas but not goats, since goats may interbreed and spread disease with native mountain goats.

Pets are not allowed on any trail in the North Cascades National Park except the Pacific Crest Trail, where they must be kept on a leash. Leashed pets are allowed on trails within the Ross Lake National Recreation Area.

Lower elevation trails are usually accessible from early April through mid- October, higher elevation trails may not open until mid-July and remain accessible through late September.

Portions of the original Depot Creek and other trails along the BC/US border west of Ross Lake and Galene Lake have been largely abandoned due to lack of maintenance, border security issues, and prevalent use by smugglers. Sections of Little Beaver Trail are subject to frequent washouts due to the narrow corridor of the valley and frequent heavy rainfall and flooding.

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Trail maintenance requirements are considerable, costly, and continuous considering the extensive mileage, high altitudes, weather extremes, and remoteness. US Forest and National Park Service personnel, as well as numerous volunteers including the Pacific Northwest Trail Association (pnta.org) among others have accomplished most trail maintenance and reconstruction efforts. Similar efforts are being conducted on the BC side by Trails BC.

Day hiking trails Trail length in miles – roundtrip Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Hiker with pack animals I I I Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park

US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 1 Thornton Lakes* SR-20 milepost 117.3 – Thornton X 5,964 2,550 10.2 Lakes Road 2 Trappers Peak* SR-20 milepost 117.3 – Thornton X 5,964 3,400 10.6 Lakes Road 3 Skagit River Loop SR-20 milepost 120 – Newhalem X 570 100 1.8 4 Stettale Creek* SR-20 milepost 126 - Diablo Road X 1,700 800 8.0 5 Sourdough Mtn* SR-20 milepost 126 - Diablo Road X 5,985 5,100 11.4 6 Pyramid Lake SR-20 milepost 126.7 X 2,600 1,550 4.2 7 Diablo Lake SR-20 milepost 127.4 – Diablo X 2,000 850 7.6 Dam 8 Thunder Knob SR-20 milepost 130.3 - Colonial X 1,875 650 3.8 Crk Campground 9 Thunder Creek – SR-20 milepost 130.3 – Colonial X 3,600 2,600 10.2 4th of July Pass Crk Campground 10 Ross Dam SR-20 milepost 134 X 2,150 520 2.0 11 Happy Crk Forest SR-20 milepost 134.4 X 2,300 100 0.3 12 Ruby Creek SR-20 milepost 138.4 X 1,850 200 2.2 13 Easy Pass SR-20 milepost 151.5 X 6,500 2,900 7.4 14 Lake Ann SR-20 milepost 157.6 X 6,850 675 3.6 15 Maple Pass SR-20 milepost 157.6 X 6,850 2,150 6.2 16 Rainy Lake SR-20 milepost 157.6 X 4,800 50 1.8 17 Blue Lake SR-20 milepost 161.5 X 6,250 1,050 4.4 18 Washington Pass SR-20 milepost 162.3 X 5,620 20 0.25 19 Cutthroat Pass SR-20 milepost 167 X 6,800 2,500 11.5 20 Driveway Butte SR-20 milepost 175 – Klipchuck X 5,982 3,100 8.0 Campground 21 Grasshopper SR-20 milepost 179.5 – 9 miles X 7,125 2,000 11.0 Pass to Harts Pass 22 Slate Peak SR-20 milepost 179.5 – 19 miles X 7,440 200 0.5 to Harts Pass 23 Goat Peak SR-20 milepost 179.5 – FR-52, X 7,000 1,600 5.0 Lookout FR-5225, FR-200 Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, and National Park Service and Green Trails *Dogs not allowed

26 Backpacking trails Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Hiker with pack animals I III Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Mt Outram West Gate-West Gate X 8,000 5,800 10.0 2 Ghost Pass Lake West Gate-West Gate X 4,600 2,600 8.8 3 Dewdney Snass Creek-Snass View X 4,900 2,400 8.0 4 Whatcom Dewdney Trail-Snass View X 5,800 3,400 9.5 5 Skagit Bluffs Snass Creek-Cayuse Flats X 2,600 100 6.0 6 Hope Pass Trail Cayuse Flats-Marmot City X 6,000 3,300 16.0 7 Grainger Creek Hope Pass Trail-Nicomen X 5,900 2,800 6.0 8 Nicomen Lake Nicomen-Hope Pass X 6,200 200 6.0 9 Heather Nicomen-Blackwall Park X 6,500 600 16.0 10 Silverdaisy Mtn Sumallo Grove-Cayuse Flats X 6,725 4,725 12.4 11 Skagit River Sumallo Grove-26 Mile Bridge X 2,050 (350) 9.0 12 Centennial 26 Mile Bridge-Park Boundary X 4.0 13 Shawatum Shawatum Bar-Shawatum Lakes X 9.0 14 Centennial 26 Mile Bridge – Skyline Trail X 9.0 15 Skyline II Whitworth Meadows-Mowich X 6,575 2,175 12.5 16 Hozomeen Mowich-Boundary X 6,000 4,300 11.0 17 Skyline I Mowich-Strawberry Flats X 6,575 2,175 12.5 18 Skyline I Despair Pass-Lightning Lake X 6,550 2,400 6.0 19 South Gibson Spruce Bay-Strawberry Flats X 4,500 400 2.0 20 Three Falls Strawberry Flats-Strawberry Flats X 4,500 200 5.5 21 North Gibson Spruce Bay-Gibson Pass X 4,500 400 2.0 22 Poland Lake Gibson Pass-Poland Lake X 5,800 1,300 5.0 23 Memaloose Allison Pass-Poland Lake X 5,700 1,200 8.0 24 Lightning Lakes Lightning Lake-Thunder Lake- X 4,100 160 15.0 Chain (roundtrip) Lightning Lake 25 Frosty Mtn Twenty Mile Lake-Frosty Mtn- X 7,900 3,770 14.0 Pacific Crest 26 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Pacific Crest-Manning X 5,200 1,400 12.0 Windy Trail Park Visitor Ctr 27 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Manning Park Visitor X 4,200 400 9.0 Castle Creek Center 28 Galene Lakes Ross Lake-Galene Lakes X 29 International Chittenden Meadows-Depot X Creek Creek US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 30 Pacific Crest- Border-Windy Pass X 27.3 Castle Pass 31 Pacific NW Trail 60.0 32 East Bank Ross SR-20 - Hozomeen 2,853 5,000 31.0 Lake 33 Big Beaver SR-20 milepost 48-Little Beaver X 11.8 Trail 34 Big Beaver Big Beaver Trail-Camps X 0.4 Camps 35 Desolation Peak Lightning Creek Trail-Lookout X 6.8 36 Devils Dome East Bank Trail-Park Boundary X 1.2 37 Hozomeen Lake Willow Lake Trail-Hozomeen Lake X 0.6 38 Lightning Creek East Bank-Nightmare Camp X 6.4 39 Little Beaver Ross Lake-Big Beaver Trail X 11.4 40 Sourdough Mtn Diablo Road-Big Beaver Trail X 11.1 41 Stetattle Creek Diablo Road -2000 ft elevation X 4.1

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Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Hiker with pack animals I III Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III 42 Willow Creek Hozomeen-Nightmare Camp X 7.8 43 Devils Dome East Bank Trail-Park Boundary X 1.2 44 Freezeout Creek Nightmare Camp-Park Boundary X 1.7 45 Lightning Creek East Bank-Nightmare Camp X 6.3 46 Three Fools Lighting Creek Trail-Park X0.8 Creek Boundary 47 Willow Lake Hozomeen-Nightmare Camp X 7.8 48 Thornton Lakes Thornton Creek Road-Lakes X 5.3 49 Newhalem Creek Visitor Center-River Loop Trail X 0.4 50 Big Beaver Ross Dam-Little Beaver X 22.8 51 Diablo Lake Sourdough Creek-Ross Dam X3.8 Portage Road 52 East Bank SR-20 milepost 49-Lightning X 2,853 5,000 16.0 Creek Trail 53 Fisher Creek Thunder Creek Trail-Easy Pass X 10.5 54 Gorge Overlook SR-20-Gorge Overlook X 0.5 55 Happy Creek SR-20-Happy Creek X 0.3 56 Little Jack East Bank Trail-6,000 foot X4.5 Mountain elevation 57 Meadows Cabins Thunder Creek Trail-cabins X 1.0 58 Newhalem Creek Newhalem Creek Road-1,800 foot X4.5 elevation 59 Panther Creek Thunder Creek Trail-SR-20 X 3,500 2,000 9.7 60 Pyramid Lake SR-20-Pyramid Lake X 2.1 61 Ross Dam SR-20-Ross Dam X 0.8 62 Thunder Creek Colonial Creek Campground- X 1,800 600 13.9 Skagit Queen 63 Thunder Creek Skagit Queen-Park Cr Pass X 5.5 64 Thunder Knob Colonial Creek Campground- X1.8 Thunder Knob 65 Thunder Woods Thunder Creek Trail-Thunder X0.9 Creek Trail 66 Ladder Crk Falls Gorge Powerhouse-Falls X 0.3 67 Trail of Cedars Suspension Bridge-Powerhouse X0.7 Loop 68 Ruby Creek X 0.9 69 N Fork Bridge X6.7 Creek Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, and National Park Service and Green Trails

• Trans-Canada (Heritage) Trail - Trails BC proposes to reopen and connect a heritage segment of the Trans-Canada Trail through Skagit Valley Provincial Park into the Cascade Recreation Area. The proposal will open a trail east from Chilliwack Lake to Silverhope Creek, then continue east on a realignment of the Centennial Trail to the Skagit River, then north on the Skagit River Trail to Sumallo Grove, then north on the Dewdney Trail into the Cascade Recreation Area. • Pacific Crest Trail – a designated National Scenic Trail extending from the California/Mexico border across the Washington/Canada border, passing through the North Cascades National Park, Pasayten Wilderness, and Manning

29 Park and east of the Ross Lake National Recreation Area coinciding with the Bridge Creek and other trails. • Pacific Northwest Trail – a proposed National Scenic Trail extending from Glacier National Park in Montana to Cape Alava on the Pacific Ocean in Olympic National Park. The trail will enter through Sky Pilot, Deception, Devils, and Dry Creek Passes, then skirt Ross Lake on the East Bank Trail, then continue up Big Beaver Trail into the Little Beaver Trail drainage, and then west over Whatcom and Hannegan Passes.

Backcountry campsites - free permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry in the US and can be obtained on a first-come, first-serve basis from the Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount or the Ranger Station in Hozomeen.

Camping must be confined to designated sites and all waste backpacked out under a “leave no trace” policy. Camping is only permitted at designated campsites or in a backcountry manner with a distance requirement of at least 0.5 miles (0.84 kilometers) from trails and more than 1.0 miles (1.7 kilometers) from designated campsites.

In the US, backcountry campsites are limited to 12 pairs of eyes (persons and stock animals where animals are allowed) in established camps and 6 pairs of eyes in all other backcountry areas. Campfires are prohibited in sub-alpine areas. Pets are not allowed on any trail in the North Cascades National Park except the Pacific Crest Trail, where they must be kept on a leash. Leashed pets are allowed on trails within Ross Lake National Recreation Area.

Backcountry trail campsites Tent campsites Outhouse I Campsite Trail access I I BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Delacey Skagit River Trail 5 2 Galene Lakes Galene Lakes Trail 5 3 Mowich Skyline I Trail X 10 4 Strike Lake Lighting Lakes Chain Trail X 10 5 Frosty Creek Frosty Mtn Trail X 8 6 Poland Lake Mamaloose Trail X 10 7 Nicomen Nicomen/Heather Trails X 10 8 Snass View Dewdney/Punch Bowl Pass Trails X 10 US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area 9 Stillwell Little Beaver Trail 10 Twin Rocks Little Beaver Trail 11 Beaver Pass Big Beaver Trail X 3 12 Big Beaver* X7 13 Big Beaver Horse X 1 14 Boundary Bay* X 3 15 Cat Island* X4 16 Cougar Island* X 2 17 Desolation* Desolation Trail X 1 18 Devils Creek East Bank Trail X 3 19 Devils Junction* East Bank Trail X 1 20 Devils Creek Horse X 1 21 Dry Creek* X4 22 Hozomeen Lake Hozomeen Trail X 3 23 Lightning Creek* Lightning Creek Trail X 6

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Tent campsites Outhouse I Campsite Trail access I I 24 Lightning Creek Horse* X 3 25 Little Beaver* Little Beaver Trail X 5 26 Lodgepole East Bank Trail X 3 27 Luna Big Beaver Trail X 2 28 May Creek* X2 29 May Creek Horse X 1 30 McMillan* X3 31 Perry Creek Little Beaver Trail X 2 32 Ponderosa* X2 33 Pumpkin Mountain Big Beaver Trail X 2 34 Rainbow Point* East Bank Trail X 3 35 Roland Creek East Bank Trail X 3 36 Roland Point* X 1 37 Silver Creek* X 3 38 Spencer* X2 39 Ten Mile Island* X 3 40 Thirtynine Mile Big Beaver Trail X 3 41 Thirtynine Mile Horse X 1 42 Willow Lake Willow Lake Trail X 1 43 Deerlick Stock Camp Lightning Creek Trail X 3 44 Nightmare Camp Lightning Creek Trail X 2 45 Nightmare Stock Camp Lightning Creek Trail X 3 46 Thornton Lakes Thornton Lakes Trail X 3 47 Buster Brown Camp* X 3 48 Fourth of July Creek Fourth of July Pass/Panther Creek X 3 49 Green Point Camp* Ross Lake Trail X 7 50 Hidden Cove Camp* X 1 51 Hidden Hand Camp East Bank Trail X 3 52 Junction Camp Thunder/Fisher Creek Trails X 4 53 Junction Horse Camp Thunder/Fisher Creek Trails X 1 54 McAllister Camp Thunder Creek Trail X 5 55 McAllister Horse Camp Thunder Creek Trail X 1 56 Neve Camp Thunder Creek Trail X 3 57 Newhalem Crk Stock Camp X 1 58 Pierce Mtn Camp* Sourdough Mtn Trail X 1 59 Ruby Pasture Camp X 1 60 Skagit Queen Camp X 3 61 Skagit Queen Horse Camp X 1 62 Sourdough Camp* Sourdough Mtn Trail X 1 63 Thunder Camp Thunder Creek Trail X 3 64 Thunder Point Camp* Thunder Creek Trail X 3 65 Tricouni Camp Thunder Creek Trail X 2 66 Cosho Fisher Creek Trail X 3 67 Fisher Fisher Creek Trail X 3 68 Panther Panther Creek Trail X 2 69 Upper Thunder Basin X 2 70 Thunder Basin Stock Thunder Creek Trail X 2 Total * No fires allowed Permits obtained from Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount (360-873-4590 extension 39) of the Ranger Station in Hozomeen Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services

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Lookouts – are viewpoints or old fire lookout stations (or the original locations) located on both sides of the border on promontory points in former backcountry areas. The US Forest Service built 43 lookouts as part of their fire reconnaissance system. The lookouts were staffed year round during World War II as part of the military’s Aircraft Warning System.

All stations are accessible from backcountry trails and some may be rented for overnight stays.

BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park Lookouts Each 1 Frosty Mountain Lookout Old fire lookout station located on Frosty 1 Mountain overlooking the BC/US border areas at the end of Frosty Mountain Trail loop. 2 26 Mile Lookout Lookout located near 26 Mile Bridge 1 overlooking the Upper Skagit River valley off Silver-Skagit Road. 3 Cascade Mountain Lookout located off paved park access road 1 Lookout above Manning Park Visitor Center off Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) overlooking areas east of Manning. 4 Valley View Lookout Overlook viewpoint located off paved park 1 access road above Manning Park Visitor Center overlooking areas west of Manning. 5 Windy Joe Mountain Old fire lookout station located on Windy 1 Lookout Joe Mountain off Windy Trail south of Manning Park Visitor Center overlooking areas south of Manning and BC/US border. 6 Pasayten River Trail Old fire lookout station located off 1 Lookout Monument 83 and Pasayten River Trails overlooking the BC/US border areas and the Pasayten Wilderness. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 7 Desolation Peak Lookout Historic (1932 – listed on the National 1 Historic Lookout Register) fire lookout station located on Desolation Peak overlooking Ross Lake off the Desolation Trail. 8 Sourdough Mountain Historic fire lookout station located on 1 Lookout Sourdough Mountain overlooking Ross and Diablo Lakes off Sourdough Mountain Trail. 9 Slate Peak Lookout Old fire lookout station located on Slate 1 Peak off the Pacific Crest Trail overlooking the Pasayten Wilderness. 10 Crater Mountain (Grand Old fire lookout site located on Crater 1 Station) Lookout Mountain above Ruby Creek Trail overlooking the south end of Ross Lake and the Pasayten Wilderness. Total 9 Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks and National Park Service

2.6 Horse trails – backcountry Horse and pack animals are allowed on most backcountry trails. US backcountry parties are limited to 12 pairs of eyes (persons and stock animals where animals are allowed) along trails and in established camps, 12 people in designated cross-country zones, and 6 pairs of eyes in all other cross-country areas.

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Backcountry permits are required year round for all overnight stays in the North Cascades National Park Service complex. Permits are specific to a site or zone each night of the itinerary and may be obtained from the Hozomeen Ranger Station, Wilderness Information Center in Marblemount, North Cascades Visitor Center in Newhalem, Method Valley Visitor Center in Winthrop, or National Park headquarters in Sedro-Woolley. Backcountry permits are free – there are no backcountry campsite reservations for the general public.

Lower elevation trails are usually accessible from early April through mid- October, higher elevation trails may not open until mid-July and remain accessible through late September. Most designated horse trails are passable, through trail maintenance is getting backlogged in the more remote areas. Grizzly bears are a concern on some trail sections in the northwest around Galene Lake, and south along the Pacific Crest ridgelines.

Horse trail riders include two different interest groups – day riders who prefer easy access, low country looped trails, versus backcountry riders who prefer the remote high country in multiple day trips. Day or easy riders use trails that are located off main roadways around the periphery of the parks. Peripheral trails are easily accessed from paved or well-maintained roads and provide easy trailer hauling of animals.

Backcountry riders must haul into the interior backcountry park areas over rough and rutted roads that are hard on equipment and animals, or extend rides to use the more accessible peripheral trailheads. As a consequence, the interior horse trail campgrounds are not heavily used by either day or backcountry riders.

Horse trailheads BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Snass Creek Horse trailhead with parking located off 1 Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) at the start of the Dewdney and Skagit Bluffs Trails. 2 Manning Horse Corral Corral facilities located along the 1 Similkameen Trail across the River from Manning Park Lodge. 3 Monument 78/83 Horse trailhead with parking located off 1 Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) at the start of the Castle Creek/Monument 78 and Monument 83 Trails. 4 Whitworth Meadows Horse campground located in the former 1 Whitworth Meadows Ranch with 11 campsites located at the start of the Centennial and Skyline II Trails. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 5 Guard Station – Harts Trailhead with horse facilities located near 1 Pass Harts Pass Campground along the Pacific Crest Trail. Total 5 Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks and National Park Service

• The new owner of the Silvertip Ski area on Silvertip Mountain may develop a staging area for day and backcountry rides.

36 Backcountry horse trails Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Horseback and pack animals I I I Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 3 Dewdney Snass Creek-Snass View X 4,900 2,400 8.0 5 Skagit Bluffs Snass Creek-Cayuse Flats X 2,600 100 6.0 6 Hope Pass Trail Cayuse Flats-Marmot City X 6,000 3,300 16.0 8 Nicomen Lake Nicomen-Hope Pass X 6,200 200 6.0 11 Skagit River Sumamo Grove-26 Mile Bridge X 2,050 (350) 9.0 12 Centennial 26 Mile Bridge-Park Boundary X 13 Shawatum Shawatum Bar-Shawatum Lakes X 9.0 14 Centennial Skagit River Trail-Skyline Trail X 9.0 21 North Gibson Spruce Bay-Gibson Pass X 4,500 400 2.0 22 Poland Lake Gibson Pass-Poland Lake X 5,800 1,300 5.0 26 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Pacific Crest-Manning X 5,200 1,400 12.0 Windy Trail Park Visitor Ctr 27 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Manning Park Visitor X 4,200 400 9.0 Castle Creek Center US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 30 Pacific Crest- Border-Windy Pass X 27.3 Castle Pass 33 Big Beaver SR-20 milepost 48-Little Beaver X 11.8 Trail 34 Big Beaver Big Beaver Trail-Camps X 0.4 Camps 36 Devils Dome East Bank Trail-Park Boundary X 1.2 Eastbank SR-20-Lightning Creek Trail X 16.0 38 Lightning Creek East Bank-Nightmare Camp X 6.4 42 Willow Creek Hozomeen-Nightmare Camp X 7.8 43 Devils Dome East Bank Trail-Park Boundary X 1.2 45 Lightning Creek East Bank-Nightmare Camp X 6.3 46 Three Fools Lighting Creek Trail-Park X0.8 Creek Boundary 47 Willow Lake Hozomeen-Nightmare Camp X 7.8 50 Big Beaver Ross Dam-Little Beaver X 22.8 51 Diablo Lake Sourdough Creek-Ross Dam X3.8 Portage Road 52 East Bank SR-20 milepost 49-Lightning X 2,853 5,000 16.0 Creek Trail 53 Fisher Creek Thunder Creek Trail-Easy Pass X 10.5 54 Gorge Overlook SR-20-Gorge Overlook X 0.5 55 Happy Creek SR-20-Happy Creek 0.3 56 Little Jack East Bank Trail-6,000 foot X4.5 Mountain elevation 62 Thunder Creek Colonial Creek Campground- X 1,800 600 13.9 Skagit Queen 63 Thunder Creek 5.5 Jack Mountain X 4.5 Panther Creek 8.5 68 Ruby Creek X 0.9 69 N Fork Bridge X6.7 Creek Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, and National Park and US Forest Services

37 Backcountry horse campsites Tent campsites Horse facilities I Outhouse I I Campsite Trail access I I I BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Snass Creek Dewdney/Skagit Bluffs Trail X X 10 2 Warburton Dewdney Trail X X 8 3 Tolameen Dewdney Trail X X 8 4 Saltlick Dewdney Trail X X 10 5 Hubbard Dewdney Trail X X 10 6 Marmot City Hope Pass Trail X X 10 7 Grainger Creek Hope Pass Trail X X 8 8 Fido Nicomen Lake Trail X X 10 9 Shawatum Shawatum Trail X 10 Whitworth Meadow Centennial/Skyline Trails X X 11 11 Monument 78 Pacific Crest/Monument 78 Trail X X 8 12 Monuments 78/83 Monument 83 Trail X X 10 US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area 5Big Beaver Horse XX 1 12 Devils Creek Horse X X 1 16 Lightning Creek Horse* X X 3 21 May Creek Horse X X 1 33 Thirtynine Mile Horse X X 1 35 Deerlick Stock Camp Lightning Creek Trail X X 3 37 Nightmare Stock Camp Lightning Creek Trail X X 3 45 Junction Horse Camp Thunder/Fisher Creek Trails X X 1 47 McAllister Horse Camp Thunder Creek Trail X X 1 49 Newhalem Crk Stock Camp X X 1 53 Skagit Queen Horse Camp X X 1 62 Thunder Basin Stock Thunder Creek Trail X X 2 Total * No fires allowed Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services

2.7 Bike trails – backcountry and on-road touring Off-road mountain bike trails – are located in Manning Provincial Park between Poland Lake, Lightning Lake, Windy Trail, and Castle Creek/Monument 78/83 Trails where surfaces, grades, and other trail users are compatible with this trail use. Mountain bike riders may also ride on the paved park roadways in and around Manning Park Visitor Centre.

Mountain bikes are not allowed on National Park or US Forest Service trails the trails are not designated for such use and were generally not built to accommodate hikers, horses, and bikers.

Mountain bike trails Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Mountain biker III Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 19 South Gibson Spruce Bay-Strawberry Flats X 4,500 400 2.0 21 North Gibson Spruce Bay-Gibson Pass X 4,500 400 2.0 22 Poland Lake Gibson Pass-Poland Lake X 5,800 1,300 5.0 26 Pacific Crest – Boundary-Pacific Crest-Manning X 5,200 1,400 12.0 Windy Joe Trail Visitor Center

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Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Mountain biker III Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III 27 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Manning Visitor Center X 4,200 400 9.0 Castle Creek- Monument 78 27 Monument 83 Boundary-Manning Visitor Center 6,500 2,700 12.0 Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks

BC-3 on-road bicycle touring route – is designated for experienced cyclists on Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3). The North Shore Mountain Biking Association is promoting a special touring event for the highway stretch from Hope to Sunshine Valley at the west edge of the Skagit Valley.

Hope-Princeton Highway (BC-3) Cumulative kilometers Elevation in meters I Milepost Services I I 1 Sumallo Village Phone, gas, restrooms, and water. 0 2 West Gate Permits and information, water, phone, 630 and restrooms. 3 Sumallo Grove Picnic facilities. 650 4 Rhododendron Parking area 670 Flats 5 Cayuse Flats Parking and picnic facilities. 792 6 Allison Pass Phone 1,341 7 Gamble Creek Parking area 1,311 8 Coldspring Campsites, picnic facilities, water, and 1,219 restrooms. 9 Manning Park Food, water, phone, and restrooms. 1,189 Lodge 10 Manning Park Permits and information, water, phone, 1,180 Visitor Center and restrooms. 11 Blowdown Parking and picnic facilities 1,170 12 Hampton Campsites, picnic facilities, water, and 1,165 restrooms. 13 Mule Deer Campsites, picnic facilities, water, and 1,160 restrooms. 14 East Gate Permits and information, water, phone, 1,100 and restrooms. 15 Bell Creek Phone, gas, restrooms, and water. Total on-road tour kilometers Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks

SR-20 on-road bicycle touring route – is designated for experienced cyclists on the 88-mile scenic stretch of the North Cascades Highway (SR-20) from Marblemount to Winthrop when the roadway is open from April to mid- November. Road closures and poor conditions may occur, however, at any time due to weather, construction, snow depth, and avalanche hazards.

There are 2 tunnels on SR-20 between the towns of Newhalem and Diablo – the longer Newhalem tunnel is fitted with a “Bikes in Tunnel” flashing safety light

40 that can be activated by cyclists at either end. Food, water, and extra clothing are required for touring cyclists since there is only one store with services between Marblemount and Mazama.

North Cascades Highway (SR-20) Cumulative miles Elevation in feet I Milepost Services I I 105 North Cascades Permits and information, water, phone, 320 0 Wilderness and restrooms. Information Center 106 Marblemount Food, phone, restrooms, and limited 320 1 supplies – heavy traffic. 110 Caution Narrow westbound shoulder 110-119. 5 119.5 Goodell Creek Campsites, picnic facilities, water, and 500 14.5 Campground restrooms. 119.9 North Cascades NP Information, phone, restrooms, and water 500 14.9 Visitor Center located 0.7 miles from Skagit River bridge. 119.9 Newhalem Creek Campsites, restrooms, water, and 500 14.9 Campground picnicking. 120.6 Newhalem Skagit General Store – restroom and last 500 15.6 food and phone services before Mazama at milepost 180 (56.4 miles). 122.4 Tunnel #1 Stop and activate “Bikes in Tunnel” 500 17.4 flashing safety light on either end. 123.4 Gorge Creek Falls Gorge Creek Falls Bridge grates slippery 18.4 and Overlook Trail when wet. 124 Tunnel #2 Merging tunnel traffic. 19 126 Diablo junction Cut off road to Seattle City Light town of 21 Diablo – no services, but tours and emergency phone. 130 Colonial Creek Campsites, picnic facilities, trails, water, 1,200 25 Campground and restrooms. 132 Diablo Lake Overlook with restrooms and viewpoint – 27 Overlook cross traffic. 134 Happy Creek Forest 0.3 mile loop boardwalk trail through 29 Walk forest cover with trailside interpretation and restrooms. 157.7 Rainy Pass Picnic Area with restrooms and 4,800 52.7 trailheads. 162.4 Washington Pass Overlook – 1.0 mile trail with restrooms, 5,477 57.4 viewpoints, and water. 168.5 Lone Fir Campsites with restrooms, trailheads, 3,600 63.5 Campground and water. 177.7 Early Winters Campsites with restrooms and water 2,200 72.7 Campground services. 180 Mazama Food, water, restrooms, and phone. 75 193 Winthrop Information, food, water, restrooms, bike 1,765 88 supplies, and phone. Total on-road tour miles 88 Road conditions may be verified by calling park headquarters at 360-856-5700 ext 515. Source: National Park Service

2.8 Winter trails – downhill and cross-country skiing, and snowmobile Downhill skiing – resorts are operated when winter weather snowfalls is sufficient at sites located at Manning Park and Sunshine Valley at the west edge of Skagit Valley Provincial Park.

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BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Silvertip Ski Area Downhill skiing facility on Silvertip Mountain located 1 off the access road from Sunshine Valley at Hope- Princeton Highway (BC-3) – elevation 2,250 meters. 2 Gibson Pass Ski Downhill skiing facility located on Gibson Pass at the 1 Area end of Strawberry Flat Road in Manning Provincial Park – elevation 1,783 meters. Total 2 Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks

There are no downhill skiing facilities in or near to the Ross Lake National Recreation Areas. However, Mount Baker Ski Resort is located at Heather Meadows at an elevation of 1,463 meters on the northeast side of Mount Baker.

Cross-country skiing – is possible on trails in Manning Provincial Park between Poland Lake and Monument 83 Trail, and on park gravel roadways when winter weather snowfall allows. Trail length in miles – one way Elevation gain in feet I High point in feet II Cross-country skiing III Backcountry trail Trailhead to trailhead I III BC Trails – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 21 North Gibson Spruce Bay-Gibson Pass X 4,500 400 2.0 22 Poland Lake Gibson Pass-Poland Lake X 5,800 1,300 5.0 26 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Pacific Crest-Manning X 5,200 1,400 12.0 Windy Joe Trail Park Visitor Ctr 27 Pacific Crest- Boundary-Manning Park Visitor X 4,200 400 9.0 Castle Creek- Center Monument 83 Fat Dog XC Trail Cambie Creek-Heather Trail X 6,800 2,400 6.0 Manning Park Valley View north to Viewpoint X 5,700 1,700 7.0 Roadway Loop Trail Maselpanik SVPR entry road south to Camp X Creek Peak – not part of SVPP. Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks

There are no designated cross-country skiing trails in or near to the Ross Lake National Recreation Areas. However, there are over 200 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails in the Methow Valley in and around Winthrop, and extensive undesignated backcountry routes used by experienced ski enthusiasts.

Snowmobile trails – there are no designated snowmobile trails in the Skagit Valley or Manning Provincial Parks, or in the North Cascades National Park or Ross Lake National Recreation Area. However, snowmobiles are used on portions of gravel and paved roadways in some areas when winter conditions allow.

US – Ross Lake NRA/Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest 1 SR-20 Snowmobiles may use the highway corridor when the roadway is closed to vehicular use during winter months and covered with adequate snow base. Trailers for up to 100 snowmobiles have been observed at the Ross Lake trailhead on SR-20 during a peak holiday period. Total Source: US Forest Service

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2.9 Climbing - alpine and rock Alpine climbing – activity occurs in scattered locations throughout the parks by independent enthusiasts who enjoy this sport in backcountry locations and sometimes with the assistance of alpine climbing guides and adventure services. Popular climbing destinations accessible by backcountry trails only include:

Area Nearest access trail Meters BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park 1 Mount Rideout Sunshine Village Road – not part of SVPP 2,447 2 Mt Payne Sunshine Village Road – not part of SVPP 2,160 3 Silvertip Mountain Sunshine Village Road 2,250 4 Maselpanik Glacier Maselpanik Creek Road 5 Wright Peak Galene Lakes Trail 2,067 6 Shawatum Mountain Shawatum Trail 2,158 US – North Cascades National Park/Ross Lake National Recreation Area 7 Redoubt Glacier Depot Creek Trail 2,730 8 Challenger Glacier Little Beaver Creek Trail 2,512 9 Neve Glacier Newhalem/Thunder Creek Trails 2,370 10 McAllister Glacier Newhalem/Thunder Creek Trails 2,586 11 Boston Glacier Thunder Creek Trail 2,713 12 Ragged Ridge Fisher Creek Trail 2,681 13 Nohokomeea Glacier East Band Trail 2,763 14 Hozomeen Mountain Hozomeen Ridge Trail 2,549 Source: Skagit Valley Provincial Forests Intensive Recreation Resource Inventory, National Park and US Forest Services

Rock climbing – activity also occurs in the parks as a result of explorations and promotions by climbing enthusiasts. Popular rock and sport climbing locations with and without the use of belay roping includes:

Area Nearest access trail Meters BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park 1 Mt Payne – NE ridge Sunshine Village Road 2,160 2 Laforgue Crk – ice climb Highway 3 US – North Cascades National Park/Ross Lake National Recreation Area 3 Mount Ross Goodell Creek Campground Source: National Park Service

Rock climbing activity is of some concern due to the potential damage climbers can do to the rock face, because of safety and insurance concerns, and parking and traffic congestion at remote sites.

2.10 Campsites – day use, tent, and vehicle Day use areas - Permits are not required for day use sites along SR-20 or at the drive-in day use area located at the north end of Ross Lake. Fees ($) Toilets (vault, flush, pit) I Drinking water I I Pets I I I Wheelchair accessible I I I I Trails (hike, bike, equestrian) I I I I I Boat I I I I I I Swim I I I I I I I Fish I I I I I I I I Day use area I I I I I I I I I Sites 1 Internatnl Pt* X X H X X X X 50* * Can accommodate group camping for up to 50 people – adjoins Ross Lake Campground. Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks

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• International Point Day Use – is located adjacent to Ross Lake campground on Silver-Skagit Road on Ross Lake. The park’s main attractions include a swimming beach, boat ramp, and playground.

Tent/recreational vehicle campgrounds - permits are required in BC. Permits are not required in the US for day use or for camping in car-accessed campgrounds along SR-20 or at the drive-in campground at Hozomeen. All sites are allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Most sites are not used to capacity except during peak summer holiday weekends. Group campsites in the US are popular with youth groups, for summer camps, and with Canadians. Fees ($) Maximum length of stay (days) I Can reserve I I Group campsites I I I RV hookups (water, electric, sewer) I I I I RV hookups – maximum length (feet) I I I I I Dump station I I I I I I Toilets (vault, flush, pit) I I I I I I I Showers I I I I I I I I Drinking water I I I I I I I I I Pets I I I I I I I I I I Wheelchair accessible I I I I I I I I I I I Trails (hike, bike, equestrian) I I I I I I I I I I I I Swim, fish, boat I I I I I I I I I I I I I Campground I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Sites BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 2Silvertip F X V 43 3Ross Lake SB X P X $ 88 4 Whitworth E11 Horse Camp 5 Lone Duck* SFBHBEXXX V XY 14$ 15 6 Coldspring H X X V Y 14 $ 66 7 Lightning Lk SF H X F $ 143 8Hampton XP $ 99 9 Mule Deer X P 49 US – west of Ross Lake 10 Hozomeen FB H X X V 22 X 14 $ 122 11 Colonial Crk F H X X X F X 32 14 $ 162 12 Newhalem F H X X X F X 32 14 $ 128 13 Goodell Crk F X X V 22 X 14 $ 21 14 Marble Crk F H X V 22 14 24 15 Mineral Park F H X V 14 4 16Howard Miller F XXXXF - WESXX 14$ 59 17Rockport SP F H XXXXFX 45 X 10$ 65 US – east of Ross Lake 18 Meadows H X V 14 $ 14 19 Lone Fir F H X X V 21 14 $ 27 20 Klipchuck F HB X F 34 14 $ 46 21 Early Winters F HB X X V 24 14 $ 13 22Pearrygin SP FSB H XXXXF 60WESXX 10$ 85 23 River Bend F HE X V 16 14 $ 5 24 Ballard F H X V 14 7 Total * Lone Duck allows group camping only. Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services Reservations available through ReserveUSA.com or 877-444-6777

48 BC vehicle/tent campgrounds – Skagit Valley Provincial Park • Silvertip – is located on Silver-Skagit Road on the Skagit River just east of the Skagit Valley Provincial Park Entrance Portal. • Ross Lake – is located 3 kilometers west of Hope, BC on Highway 1, then south at exit 168 for 39 miles (62.4 kilometers) on Silver-Skagit Road (a gravel road) on Ross Lake at an elevation of 1,600 feet. The campground is open from late May to late October. • Lone Duck – is located on Muddy Creek on the eastern edge of Manning Provincial Park. The park allows group camping only. • Coldspring – is located on Highway 1 near the Manning Park Visitor Center on the eastern edge of Manning Provincial Park. • Lightning Lake – is located off Highway 3 and the Manning Provincial Park access road on the north side of Lighting Lake. • Hampton – is located on Highway 3 about 2.5 km at the eastern entry into the manning Park Visitor Centre area. • Mule Deer – is located on Highway 3 about 6 km from the eastern entry into the Manning Park Visitor Centre area.

US vehicle/tent campgrounds – Ross Lake National Recreation Area • Hozomeen – is located in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area and North Cascades National Park at the end of Silver-Skagit Road – a gravel/dirt roadway at an elevation of 1,600 feet. The National Park Service (4.0-acre 122 tent or self- contained RV site campground is open from late May to late October.

US vehicle/tent campgrounds – North Cascades National Park • Colonial Creek – is located in the North Cascades National Park 65 miles east of Sedro Woolley on the North Cascades Highway (SR-20) on Diablo Lake at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The NPS 28.0-acre campground is open from mid- April to late October – 18 sites of the 162 tent or self-contained RV campsites are open year round. The campground’s main attractions include old growth forest, summer nature programs, and nightly presentations in the amphitheater. Some damage was incurred during the past years flooding resulting in the closure of 25 campsites. • Newhalem – is located in the North Cascades National Park about 60 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 at milepost 120 at an elevation of 980 feet. The relatively new NPS campground is open from mid-May to mid-October. The campground’s main attractions include summer campfire programs in the campground and at the new park visitor center. • Goodell Creek – is located in the North Cascades National Park about 55 miles east of Sedro Woolley on SR-20 on the Skagit River at an elevation of 600 feet. The NPS 4.0-acre campground is open year-round but without services during the winter. The campground’s main attractions include old growth forest and river rafting on the Newhalem and Wild and Scenic Skagit River. • Marble Creek – is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest 55 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 on Marble Creek at an elevation of 1,600 feet. The USFS primitive campground is open from mid-May to mid-September. The campground’s main attractions include the trailhead to the Cascade Pass hiking trail. • Mineral Park – is located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest 62 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 on the Cascade River at an elevation of 1,310 feet. The USFS primitive campground is open from mid-May to mid-September. The campground’s main attractions include trailheads into the North Cascades National Park and Glacier Peak Wilderness Areas.

49 • Howard Miller Steelhead – is located 38 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 on the Skagit River in town at an elevation of 500 feet. The City of Rockport 10 tent and 49 RV full hookup site campground is open year round. The campground’s main attractions include steelhead fishing, a clubhouse meeting facility, playground, and Adirondack shelters. • Rockport State Park – is located 39 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 at milepost 96-98 near Rockport at an elevation of 330 feet. The Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission’s (P&RC) 457.0-acre state park with 3 primitive tent sites, 8 developed walk-in tent sites, 65 RV sites with full services, and 4 Adirondack shelters (8 person capacity each) is open from April to mid- November. The park’s main attractions include old-growth Douglas fir forest.

US vehicle/tent campgrounds – Okanogan National Forest • Meadows – is located in Okanogan National Forest 13 miles northwest of Winthrop on SR-20 then 20 miles northwest on FR-500, then 1 mile south on FR- 500 (a one-lane dirt road) at an elevation of 6,130 feet. The USFS primitive campground is open from mid-July to late September. The campground’s main attractions include access to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. • Lone Fir –is located in Okanogan National Forest 27 miles northwest of Winthrop on SR-20 on Early Winters Creek at an elevation of 3,640 feet.The USFS campground is open June to late September. • Klipchuck –is located in Okanogan National Forest 19 miles northwest of Winthrop on Early Winters Creek at an elevation of 2,900 feet. The USFS campground is open from June to late September. • Early Winters –is located in Okanogan National Forest 15 miles northwest of Winthrop on SR-20 on Early Winters Creek at an elevation of 2,130 feet. The USFS campground is open from June to September or October depending on the weather. • Pearrygin Lake State Park – is located 4 miles northeast of Winthrop on SR- 20 on Pearrygin Lake at an elevation of 2,100 feet. The 580.0-acre park with 53 ten sites, 30 RV hookups, and 2 primitive walk-in sites are open from April through October. The park’s main attractions include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and 8,200 feet of shoreline on spring-fed/trout- filled Pearrygin Lake. • River Bend – is located 13 miles northwest of Winthrop on SR-20, then 8.5 miles northwest to FR-54060, then south 0.5 miles on rough road to the park at an elevation of 2,760 feet. The USFS primitive campground is open from June to September. The campground’s main attractions include horse packing into the Pasayten Wilderness. • Ballard – is located 13 miles northwest of Winthrop on SR-20, then 8.0 miles northwest on Mazama Road near the Methow River at an elevation of 2,600 feet. The USFS primitive campground is open from June through September or October depending on the weather.

2.11 Interpretive – sites, centers, programs Interpretive centers and amphitheater sites - are located at key publicly accessible sites at the major entry points on Hope-Princeton Highway in Manning Park and along the North Cascades Highway SR-20 in Ross Lake National Recreation Area. NPS staff (BC programs were eliminated) conducts the center and amphitheater programs with SEEC funding assistance. Principal facilities and programs include the following:

50

Centers Program Each BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Manning Park Visitor Centre is located off Hope-Princeton Highway 1 Visitor Centre (BC-3) and provides daily interpretive programs, exhibits, books, and maps. 2 Lightning Lake Amphitheater provides nature lectures and exhibits 1 during summer weekends. 3 Canada/US International day and evening programs are offered at 1 the Hozomeen amphitheater and at International Point. US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 4 Marblemount Wilderness Information Center located on SR-20 at 1 milepost 106 issues national park backcountry permits and general information. 5 North Cascades Visitor Center located on SR-20 at milepost 120 in 1 Visitor Center Newhalem on the south side of the Skagit River provides interpretive programs, exhibits, books, and maps with real-time view through the webcam. Open daily mid-April through mid-October, weekends only during winter months. 6 Seattle City Light Information and Tour Center located in Newhalem on 1 SR-20 at milepost 120 provides historical highlights of power projects. 7 North Cascades Recently completed 36,000 square foot facility located 1 Environmental on north side of Diablo Lake providing classrooms, Learning Center labs, dining hall, lodging area, amphitheater, and library for youth and adult environmental education programs. 8 Colonial Creek Summer nature programs conducted in the NPS 1 campground on SR-20 at milepost 126 from May to October. 9 Newhalem Summer campfire programs conducted in the new 1 visitor center in the NPS campground located on SR-20 at milepost 120. 10 Methow Valley Visitor Center located on SR-20 at milepost 192 1 provides interpretive programs, exhibits, books, and maps. Open daily mid-April through mid-October, closed during winter months. Total Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services

• Colonial Creek – is located in the North Cascades National Park 65 miles east of Sedro Woolley on the North Cascades Highway (SR-20) on Diablo Lake at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The campground’s main attractions include summer nature programs and nightly presentations in the amphitheater. • Newhalem – is located in the North Cascades National Park about 60 miles east of Burlington on SR-20 at milepost 120 at an elevation of 980 feet. The campground’s main attractions include summer campfire programs in the campground and in the new park visitor center.

Interpretive programs - are conducted by non-profit and public organizations in the Skagit Valley, on the Skagit River, at Diablo Lake, and by boat and canoe across Ross Lake.

Tours Program Each BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Hope Outdoor Conducts group excursions into Skagit Valley School Provincial Park in May and June.

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Tours Program Each US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 2 North Cascades Founded in 1986, NCI conducts field-based Institute – NCI environmental education programs focusing on natural and cultural history. NCI conducts seminars and retreats, school and summer youth adventures, volunteer stewardship opportunities, teacher education and internships, graduate studies in environmental education, and custom programs. Activities include Ross Lake Canoe Camp, Natural History by Canoe, People of the Upper Skagit, Bats of the Pacific Northwest, etc. The Institute recently completed development of the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center interpretive facility at the end of the north access road on Diablo Lake. 3 NW Interpretive NWIA works cooperatively with public land agencies to Association - promote historical, scientific, and educational NWIA activities. 4 Seattle City Light Diablo Lake Adventure – provides a scenic bus trip up 1 the Gorge, and a boat trip on Diablo Lake to Ross Powerhouse. Tours begin in Newhalem at the Skagit Information Center across from the General Store – self-guided tours can be completed to the Gorge Powerhouse, Ladder Creek Falls, and Trails of the Cedars. Reservations recommended at 206-684-3030. Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services

2.12 Accommodations – inside parks Overnight accommodations - are provided in cabin and lodge facilities on Hope- Princeton Highway (BC-3) in Manning Park, on Baker Lake in North Cascade Park, and on Ross Lake.

Facilities Location Each BC – Skagit Valley Provincial Park/Manning Provincial Park 1 Manning Park Year-round resort providing 73 rooms, 2 restaurants, a 1 Resort lounge, country store, meeting and conference facilities, tennis/basketball/volleyball courts, playground, and recreational center. Reservations available from 250-840-8822, www.manningparkresort.com US – Ross Lake National Recreation Area/North Cascades National Park 2 Ross Lake Resort Opened in 1950, provides 12 individual cabins and 3 1 bunkhouses built on log floats on the southwest side of Ross Lake north of Ross Dam. It is the only facility on the lake providing boat rentals, portage service, and water taxi. Reservations available from 206-386- 4437, www.rosslakeresort.com Source: Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, National Park and US Forest Services

• Manning Park Lodge – is located on Hope-Princeton Highway. During the summer season, the resort provides canoe, rowboat, kayak, and mountain bike rentals at the Lightning Lakes Day Use area. During the winter, the facility provides 2 double chair downhill skiing areas, a handle tow, and a T-bar. Guest services include a day lodge, daycare, lift served tube park, RV parking, terrain park, ski, and snowboard rentals and lessons. Park services include pay telephones, bank machine, public washrooms, and the sale of fishing licenses.

54 • Ross Lake Resort – is located on the southwest side of Ross Lake north of Ross Dam. Opened in 1950, it is the only facility on the lake and has no direct road access. A passenger ferry and truck provide access to the resort. The facility is open mid-June to October. All cabins are completely furnished and include electricity and hot and cold running water. The 12 cabins include a little cabin housing 4 persons, a modern cabin housing 6, a peak cabin housing 9, and private bunkhouses housing 8 to 10 persons.

2.13 Inventory implications The following implications are drawn from the effort to compile and complete the inventory information listed in the preceding pages of this chapter.

• Gaps in inventory – there are significant information gaps in information regarding facilities in the Upper Skagit River Watershed study area. The facility data that is maintained and periodically updated by the agencies is not consistent between agencies or on both sides of the border. Some of this information may be available, but has not been recorded on digital maps or in park brochures. Some of this information may only be compiled through field investigations. A comprehensive and accurate inventory must be developed and maintained of existing facilities along with up to date assessments of conditions and utilization.

• Undefined facility carrying capacities – apart from anecdotal comments, there are no documented determinations of the environmental carrying capacity of some of the watershed’s most sensitive facilities and environments. Such information will be critical to avoid environmental degradations due to overuse. Park management plans should account for carrying capacity limits and develop databases with which to determine the usage of all facilities between agencies on both sides of the border.

• Incomplete historical/cultural information – there are significant gaps in information and on maps of the watershed area concerning historical and cultural attributes of interest to visitors of the watershed area. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed cultural and historical inventories of the watershed area. However, these attributes are not identified on maps that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of natural history, this oversight needs to be corrected. Watershed visitors will likely support preservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the attributes to be protected.

• Incomplete wildlife habitat area information – there are significant gaps in information and on maps of the watershed area concerning wildlife habitat information of interest to visitors of the watershed area. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed wildlife inventories and assessments in the watershed area. However, like the cultural inventories described above, wildlife habitats are not identified on maps that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of the environment, this oversight needs to be corrected. Like cultural attributes, watershed visitors will more likely support wildlife habitat conservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the habitat to be protected.

55 56 Chapter 3: Recreational demand

The following analysis was developed from: • visitor data and surveys - conducted by the Skagit Valley and Manning Provincial Parks, and National Park Service, • population data – developed by Statistics Canada, the US Bureau of Census, and Washington State, and • recreation participation data - developed for the Washington State Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC).

3.1 User surveys – place of residence 1985-2004 The North Cascades National Park Service and BC Ministry of Water, Land & Air Protection (MWLAP) conduct surveys of park users and visitors to determine place of residence, characteristics of the user group, use of facilities, evaluation of conditions and other behavior and conditions of interest.

These surveys include a variety of qualitative samplings ranging from comment cards and mail-back surveys at visitor centers, campgrounds, and other intercept points to structured representative samples of park visitors and users every 10 years or so. The surveys are conducted under a variety of methodologies with different accuracy rates and utilization.

The National Park Service, in fact, is about to conduct a major user intercept survey during the summer of 2005 with which to update behavioral information and opinions about park facilities. In the meantime, this assessment relied on the following previous surveys for determination of the likely park service areas and recreational activity capture rates on both sides of the border.

• US in 1985 – the North Cascades National Park Service Complex commissioned a visitor user survey in 1985 from the Cooperative Park Studies Unit of the University of Idaho. The survey objective was to determine characteristics and behavior of visitors in the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. The surveyors intercepted park users and provided drop- off/mail-back surveys at Hozomeen, Stehekin, and along the North Cascades Highway.

While the survey data is dated, especially responses dealing with user characteristics and other behaviors, the survey does provide a means for determining where North Cascades National Park users reside – and therefore, the potential service or market areas of the park.

Hozomeen SR-20 County or area Percent Percent Whatcom County 18% 9% Skagit County 0% 6% Okanogan County 0% 3% Subtotal local area residents 18% 18% Washington State 33% 55% Subtotal Washington State residents 33% 55% Washington State 33% 55% Oregon State 0% 4% California State 5% 10% Subtotal coastal state residents 38% 69%

57 Hozomeen SR-20 County or area Percent Percent United States 45% 84% Canada 55% 11% Subtotal national residents 100% 95% Elsewhere 0% 5% Total 100% 100% Sample group for North Cascades Highway = 541 persons, Hozomeen = 82 persons. Source: Visitors Services Project Report 5 – North Cascades National Park Service 1985

As shown, 18% of Hozomeen visitors resided within Whatcom County or within a 1-hour travel time from the park, while 55% resided within Canada or within a 1- 4 hour travel/time distance of the park. 18% of North Cascades Highway visitors resided within Whatcom, Skagit, or Okanogan Counties or within a 1-hour travel time from the park, while 55% of the highway’s visitors were drawn from Washington State, or within a 4-hour travel time of the park.

On the North Cascades Highway (SR-20), 530 visitor groups were intercepted by the surveyors of which 217 or 42% completed and returned surveys. The typical North Cascades Highway user was in a group averaging 3 people in size, 50% of which were family, distributed in all age groups, 40% of which were visiting the North Cascades for the first time, and 68% of which spent 1 day in the park. Approximately 62% of the North Cascades Highway users spent most of their visit in the highway corridor, 5% on Ross Lake, 6% on the east bank, and 1% on the west bank of the lake.

In Hozomeen, 80 visitor groups were intercepted by the surveyors of which 32 or 41% completed and returned surveys. The typical Hozomeen user was in a group averaging 4 people in size, 56% of which were family, distributed in middle to young or family ages, 22% of which were visiting the site for the first time, and 84% of which spent more than 3 days in the park. Approximately 91% of the Hozomeen users spent most of their visit on Ross Lake, 8% on the east bank, and 1 % on the west bank of the lake.

• US in 2004 – the North Cascades National Park Service also tracks visitor data for backcountry permits on an annual basis. In 2004, NPS issued permits for 3,497 persons 26.5% of which were from the northwest counties within a 1-hour time/travel distance and 78.1% from Washington State within a 4-hour travel/time distance of the park.

County or area Percent Washington – northwest 927 26.5% Subtotal local area residents 927 26.5% Washington State 2,731 78.1% Subtotal Washington State residents 2,731 78.1% Washington State 2,731 78.1% Oregon State 187 5.3% California State 86 2.5% Subtotal coastal state residents 3,004 85.9% United States 3,401 97.2% Canada 85 2.4% Subtotal local area residents 3,486 99.6% Elsewhere 11 0.3% Subtotal local area residents 3,497 100.0% Source: North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center 2004.

58 • BC in 1988 - the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission (SEEC), in conjunction with BC Ministry of Environment & Parks (now Ministry of Water, Land & Air Protection – MWLAP), commissioned a user intercept survey of the Skagit Valley in 1988 from Acres International Limited. The survey objective was to determine characteristics and preferences of visitors in the Skagit Valley Provincial Recreation Area and the Hozomeen Area of Ross Lake National Recreation Area.

The surveyor intercepted park users and provided drop-off/mail-back questionnaires at the Skagit Valley Provincial Park gate, and the Ross Lake, Silvertip, and Whitworth campsites during the summer, fall, and winter of 1987. 1,500 questionnaires were distributed of which 657 or 43% usable responses were dropped-off or mailed-back representing 2,071 individuals. The response rate is high and the results are considered statistically representative of the users intercepted.

However, the surveys were not distributed at Hozomeen Campground on the US side of the border and intercepted US citizens were reluctant to participate in a “Canadian project.” Therefore, the results were considered to be representative but typical of Canadian as opposed to US users.

While the survey data is dated, especially responses dealing with conditions and other features of the park, it does provide a means for determining where Skagit Valley Provincial Park users reside – and therefore, the potential service or market areas of the park.

City or area Participants Percent Fraser-Cheam 65 10.0% Dewdney-Allouette 34 5.2% Subtotal local area residents 99 15.2% Greater Vancouver 397 60.8% Central Fraser 104 15.9% Elsewhere in BC 18 2.8% Subtotal BC residents 618 94.6% Washington State 29 4.4% Subtotal BC residents and Washington State 647 99.0% Alberta 20.3% Elsewhere in Canada 1 0.2% Elsewhere in US 2 0.3% Subtotal BC and US 652 99.8% Out of North America 1 0.2% Total 653 100.0% Source: Skagit Valley User Survey April 1988

As shown, 15.2% of the Skagit Valley Provincial Park users were drawn from the immediate area, or within a 1-hour drive of the park while 99.0% were drawn from BC or Washington State, or within a 2-4 hour drive of the park.

The survey respondents were also asked a closed-ended question about the reasons for using Skagit Valley Provincial Park facilities. As shown, major reasons for use were closeness to home and the beauty of the Skagit Valley area.

59 Reason for use Yes No Total Closeness to home 54.0% 46.0% 100.0% Range of activities available in the park 12.9% 87.1% 100.0% Familiar with recreational area 29.3% 70.7% 100.0% Uniqueness of Skagit Valley area 30.6% 69.4% 100.0% Beauty of Skagit Valley area 67.1% 32.9% 100.0% Source: Skagit Valley User Survey April 1988

The typical Skagit Valley Provincial Park user was in a group averaging 3.2 people in size, distributed in young to middle family age groups, 32% of which were visiting the Skagit Valley for the first time, and 85% of which spent more than 2 days in the park.

3.2 Service area population forecasts – 1980-2025 Based on the analysis above, historical population totals and projections were derived for 4 recreational service or market areas of the Upper Skagit River watershed recreational area:

• Vicinity (within 1 hour drive) – likely includes the populations that reside within the Fraser Valley and Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Districts in BC, and Whatcom, Skagit, and Okanogan Counties in Washington State. The year 2005 population within the vicinity service area is estimated to be 680,680 persons, and projected to be 940,961 persons by the year 2025 or an increase of 260,281 or 38% more persons over the 2005 population level.

The vicinity service area population increased significantly averaging an annual rate of 2.2% between 1980 and 1990, 2.6% between 1990-2000, and 1.5% between 2000 and 2005. Recent projections by Statistics Canada (in 2005) and the Washington State Office of Financial Management (in 2002), however, expect the rate of population growth in the vicinity will slowly decline to an annual average rate of 1.7% between 2005-2010, then 1.8% to 2015, 1.6% to 2020, and 1.5% to 2025.

The rate of population growth has been highest in the vicinity service area in recent years in the Fraser Valley Regional District in BC, and Whatcom and Skagit Counties in the US. Some portion of this growth may be due to developments expanding outwards from the nearby urban population centers in Vancouver and Seattle. Some portion may also be due to the in-migration of older, retiring households, particularly in Whatcom and Skagit Counties on the US side.

Regardless of the growth rate or cause, population and thereby potential user interest in the parks will increase significantly on both sides of the border within the immediate vicinity or easy day tripping distance of the parks.

• Local (within 2 hour drive) – likely includes populations that reside within the vicinity service area above plus Greater Vancouver, Thomson-Nicola, and Central Okanagan Regional Districts in BC, amd Snohomish, King, Chelan, San Juan, and Island Counties in Washington State. The year 2005 population within the regional service area is estimated to be 5,762,916 persons, and projected to be 7,294,050 persons by the year 2025 or an increase of 1,531,134 or 27% more persons over the 2005 population level.

The regional service area population increased significantly averaging an annual rate of 2.1% between 1980 and 1990, 2.1% between 1990-2000, and 1.1% between 2000 and 2005. Recent projections by Statistics Canada (in 2005) and

60 Population forecasts by service area Insert table and graphics

61 the Washington State Office of Financial Management (in 2002), however, expect the rate of population growth in the region will slowly decline to an annual average rate of 1.2% between 2005-2010, then 1.3% to 2015, 1.2% to 2020, and 1.1% to 2025. The regional service area rate of growth is expected to decline to about half of what it has been historically and to be significantly less than the expected growth of the vicinity service area.

The rate of population growth has been highest in recent years in the regional service area in the Central Okanagan and Fraser Valley Regional Districts in BC, and Snohomish, Island, Whatcom, and Skagit Counties in the US.

Regardless of the growth rate or cause, population and thereby potential user interest in the parks will increase significantly on both sides of the border within the day use, weekend use, and holiday travelling distances of the parks.

• Regional (within 4 hour drive) – likely includes populations that reside within southern British Columbia and Washington State. The year 2005 population within the coastal service area is estimated to be 10,460,019 persons, and projected to be 13,236,717 persons by the year 2025 or an increase of 2,776,698 or 27% more persons over the 2005 population level.

The coastal service area population increased moderately averaging an annual rate of 1.6% between 1980 and 1990, 2.0% between 1990-2000, and 1.0% between 2000 and 2005. Recent projections by Statistics Canada (in 2005) and the Washington State Office of Financial Management (in 2002), however, expect the rate of population growth in the coast will slowly decline to an annual average rate of 1.2% between 2005-2010, then 1.3% to 2015, 1.2% to 2020, and 1.1% to 2025. The coastal service area rate of growth is expected to decline to about half of what it has been historically in the 1990s, comparable to the regional service area, but significantly less than expected of the vicinity service area.

Regardless of the growth rate or cause, population and thereby potential user interest in the parks will increase significantly on both sides of the border within the coastal or vacation travelling distance of the parks.

• National – includes the populations that reside within Canada and the United States. The year 2005 population within the national service area is estimated to be 318,209,600 persons, and projected to be 371,240,000 persons by the year 2025 or an increase of 53,030,400 or 14% more persons over the 2005 population level.

The national service area population increased slightly averaging an annual rate of 1.0% between 1980 and 1990, 0.9% between 1990-2000, and 0.8% between 2000 and 2005. Recent projections by Statistics Canada (in 2005) and the US Bureau of Census (in 1997), however, expect the rate of population growth in the nations will remain steady at an annual average rate of 0.8% between 2005-2010, then 0.8% to 2015, 0.8% to 2020, and 0.7% to 2025.

Regardless of the growth rate or cause, population and thereby potential user interest in the parks will increase sizably on both sides of the border within the national or vacation or special excursion travelling distance of the parks.

62 3.3 User surveys recreation activity participation 1988 and 2004 The North Cascades National Park Service and BC Ministry of Water, Land & Air Protection (MWLAP) surveys also asked park users and visitors what they did while in park areas.

• BC in 1988 - the SEEC and BC Ministry of Water, Land & Air Protection user intercept survey of the Skagit Valley in 1988 asked survey participants what they did while in Skagit Valley Provincial Park and the Hozomeen Area of Ross Lake National Recreation Area. While the survey data is dated, it does provide a profile of typical user activities.

Participation in activities Participants Percent Photography – sightseeing 258 39.3% Nature study 183 27.9% Gathering – mushrooms 5 0.8% Fishing – in the lake 195 29.7% Picnicking – day use with family 21 3.3% Swimming 167 25.4% Boating – in the lake 149 22.7% Boating – in the river 79 12.0% Snow-shoeing 6 0.9% Skiing – cross-country 7 1.1% Hiking – on a mountain trail 457 69.6% Climbing – alpine, snow, and rock 35 5.3% Bicycle riding – on a mountain trail 40 6.1% Bicycle touring 10 1.5% Horseback riding – on a mountain trail 4 0.6% Camping 524 79.7% Hunting 22 3.3% Total 657 100.0% Source: Skagit Valley User Survey April 1988

As shown, the highest participation was in camping and hiking – though the participants were likely to be involved in a variety of activities including nature study, swimming, and boating while at the park. When asked what their primary activities were, 43.8% indicated fishing.

• US in 2004 – the North Cascades National Park Service backcountry permits data also tracked activity participation for visitor groups.

Participation in activities Visitors Percent Fishing 6.7% Boating – motorized 5.2% Boating – kayak or canoe 13.5% Skiing – cross-country 0.9% Hiking – on a mountain trail 2,216 46.4% Climbing – alpine, snow, and rock 1,089 22.8% Bicycle riding – on a mountain trail 0.2% Camping – with stock animals 1.1% Hunting 0.1% Total 4,776 100.0% Source: North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center 2004.

As shown, the highest participation was in hiking and climbing – activities related to the backcountry environment and facilities.

63 3.4 Washington State IAC recreation activity participations 2001 • Methodology - recreational demands can be determined using variations of participation models – refined, statistical variations of a questionnaire or survey method of determining recreational behavior. Participation models are usually compiled using activity diaries, where a person or household records their participation in specific recreational activities over a measurable period of time. The diary results create a statistical profile that can be used to project the recreational behavior of comparable persons, households or populations.

Participation models are most accurate when the participation measurements are determined for a population and area that is local and similar enough to the population that is to be projected by the model. The most accurate participation model is usually controlled by climatic region and age, and periodically updated to measure changes in recreational behavior in activities or areas over time.

• Qualifications - properly done, participation models can be very accurate predictors of an area's recreational requirements in terms that are specific and measurable. However, though accurate, participation models can be somewhat abstract, and if not combined with other methods of gathering public opinion, can fail to determine qualitative issues of an area's demands in addition to a facility's quantitative requirements.

For example, an area might provide the exact facility quantities that are required to meet the resident population’s recreation demands, such as a mile of hiking trail. However, the facility might not provide the proper destination, in a quality or safe corridor, or other important, but less measurable aspect that makes the facility quantity effective and the activity a pleasurable experience.

• Washington State IAC participation data - the Washington State Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) conducted 12-month household diary surveys of 1,200 households in 2001. The diary surveys provided participation information from the 1,200 households for 3,400 persons according to 6 age groups based on where the household resided in counties on the west and east sides of the Cascade Mountains. Subsequently, the IAC data was compiled to project recreational participation information for each age group for each side of the Cascade Mountains.

The IAC analysis determined there were differences in activity participation by age group where younger ages were likely to participate at higher rates in indoor and outdoor recreational athletics, and older age groups to participate at higher rates in recreational vehicle camping, walking, sightseeing, and nature studies.

The IAC analysis also determined there were differences in activity participation in all age groups by region where residents of the eastern side of the Cascades were likely to participate at higher rates in hunting and fishing, and residents of the western side to participate at higher rates in boating.

In addition, the IAC data recorded household, and thereby age and regional recreational participation, according to the days in each calendar month including the environmental setting of the activity (i.e., in a park, in a mountain setting, on an undesignated trail, etc). Subsequently, the IAC data was compiled to determine the average number of participation events that occurred during each month, peak season month, average weekday or weekend day in the peak season month, and peak day of the peak season month for the age, region controlled participant of each activity.

64 • Facility capacity/requirement projections - IAC recreation participation data has been used in some studies to determine the facility quantities that would be required to meet various schedule events (average day of peak season month, for example) for each type of recreational facility (campsite, mile of trail, boat launch ramps, etc). Such studies interpolated facility requirements by determining the maximum number of users, duration of use, and number of turnovers that would occur during the projection day period.

For example, if an average mountain hiking trail can accommodate 1 hiker per mile at a turnover rate of 3 miles per hour for 8 hours of daylight hiking during the peak summer season month, then the capacity of a mile of mountain trail is 24 hikers. The number of miles of mountain trail that would be required to meet expected demands could be determined by dividing the number of mountain hikers who would be expected to want to hike mountain trails at the peak season month event by 24.

The capacity illustrated in the simple example described above, however, would depend on and could be affected by:

• what mountain hikers consider is a desirable density per mile – which will vary by setting, location, and hiker interest – and whether other users (horse or mountain bike) are present on the trail, • the rate of speed mountain hikers consider desirable and/or possible– which will vary by type of terrain and trail, and • the number of hours the hikers actually spend on the trail – which will vary if the hike is combined with other activities like fishing, visiting a fire lookout or overlook point, setting up camp, etc.

• Recreation participation trends – previous IAC surveys also recorded household member participation in activities similar to that recorded in 2001. Previous surveys, however, did not define activities and the environmental setting of the activity with as much precision as the 2001 survey – and, therefore, can not be used to fully evaluate trends in all recreation activities – particularly indoor activities (not measured prior to 2001), and new extreme sports.

In general, the trend evaluations determined participation rates were increasing in select activities like soccer, walking and hiking, nature watching, and new extreme sports for all age groups over and above the impacts of demographic population aging.

• Actual versus desired behavior – the IAC survey recorded actual recreational behavioral events that were likely influenced by whether a recreational facility was available, of a quality, and/or of a cost or distance desired by the participating household.

Therefore, the IAC participation data can not be used to determine what would happen to recreational activity were availability, quality, cost, location, or other variables to be changed over those that prevailed in Washington State at the time of the survey.

In addition, the IAC survey measured the type of recreational environment (i.e., park, mountain, undesignated, etc) where the household participated, and not the actual location. In some instances, the participating household may have

65 ventured outside of the region to engage in the activity – and vice versa by in- bound tourist users.

• IAC data qualifications - as shown, the IAC derived participation information can be used to analyze and extrapolate very sophisticated projections of the potential number of users, number of events, seasonal schedule of activity, and even capacity and requirements for a wide variety of very specific recreation activities.

However, depending on the purpose of study, the methodology can not project where the activity will occur, or what changes in volume of users, quality, cost, or other variables will have on demand.

3.5 SEEC recreational assessment • This SEEC recreational assessment effort - utilizes the IAC per capita annual participation rate, annual frequency, and peak season day characteristics for 33 activities of most interest to the Skagit Valley recreational area. In doing so, this assessment makes the following assumptions and qualifications:

• In lieu of comparable recreational participation data for BC – the Washington State IAC data is presumed to be the best available and most typical of resident populations on both sides of the Cascades on both sides of the border. • Age specific participation data is beyond the purposes of this initial assessment – and would overload the projections and content of the assessment at this time. • Facility capacity/requirement estimates would involve a wide range of facility environments – and could not be limited to the specific facility environments of most interest to this assessment at this time. • Facility capacity/requirement estimates would require a complete and detailed inventory of existing facilities and their utilization rates – which is not currently available nor complete for the watershed area based on current available sources at this time. • Park managers, user groups, and other participant groups in this assessment can provide sufficient anecdotal information with which to qualify current impacts on facilities – pending the completion of up to date inventories, and the updated user survey to be conducted in the summer of 2005.

The IAC rates were applied to the year 2005 and 2025 population projections to estimate the likely number of users, the annual volume, and the volume that would occur on each activity’s peak season day for the vicinity and regional service areas. Following is a summary description of the projections and implications of most interest:

• Highest participation rates – or the most popular activities of the general population are sightseeing at a scenic area (18.95% of the general population), gathering mushrooms and Christmas evergreens (15.60%), and picnicking (12.40%). The most specialized activity user groups are climbing in alpine, snow or ice conditions (0.11% of the general population) and kayaking on fresh white water (0.12%).

• Greatest annual number of occasions or frequency – however, are evident of bicycle touring (8.55 occasions per activity participant), mountain bike riding on a mountain or forest trail (7.53), and horseback riding on a mountain or

66 forest trail (7.45). The least annual frequency per participant is nature visiting at an interpretive center (1.95 times per activity participant).

• Highest peak day occurrence – meaning what percent of the annual volume will likely occur on a peak day during that activity’s season, are evident of bicycle camping at a campground (8.23% of all activity will occur on the peak season day) and rafting on white water (6.13%). The least concentrated or most dispersed peak day activities are horseback riding on mountain or forest trails (0.53% of all activity will occur on the peak season day) and bike riding on mountain or forest trails (0.69%).

Participation Annual Peak day Activity Rate Frequency Sightseeing - at a scenic area 18.95% 2.47 0.77% Nature - visiting interpretive centers 7.50% 1.95 0.78% Gathering – food and evergreens 15.60% 2.70 2.60% Fishing – freshwater from bank 6.68% 4.12 0.95% Fishing – freshwater from a prvt boat 5.87% 3.58 1.45% Picnicking – family 12.40% 5.04 1.73% Swimming – freshwater beach 5.73% 3.94 2.38% Rafting - white water 0.43% 2.38 6.13% Kayaking – freshwater calm 2.11% 3.78 1.43% Kayaking – freshwater – white water 0.12% 3.78 1.43% Motorboating – freshwater 5.80% 3.61 1.70% Water skiing – freshwater 1.60% 3.50 2.23% Snowshoeing 0.79% 2.32 3.09% Sledding/tubing/other snow play 3.82% 2.30 3.27% Snowboarding 2.15% 4.05 1.89% Skiing - cross-country 2.09% 4.41 2.38% Skiing - downhill facility 4.64% 4.41 2.38% Snowmobile and atv 2.09% 5.04 2.24% Hiking - mountain/forest trails 8.90% 4.08 0.97% Climbing - alpine, snow, and ice 0.11% 4.06 0.90% Climbing - rock outdoor 0.53% 4.06 0.90% Bike riding – mountain/forest trails 0.87% 7.53 0.69% Bicycle touring – overnight excursions 0.19% 8.55 1.95% Horseback riding – mountain/forest trails 0.92% 7.45 0.53% Camping - with kayak at designated site 0.34% 2.42 3.03% Camping - in boat at designated site 0.32% 5.46 2.83% Backpacking - with self carry packs 1.29% 3.78 1.84% Backpacking - with pack animals 0.16% 3.78 1.84% Bicycle camping - at a campground 0.44% 2.40 8.23% Tent camping - at a campground 4.19% 2.93 1.45% RV camping - at a campground 5.79% 5.01 1.37% Archery – hunting 0.47% 4.36 1.88% Firearms - hunting big game 2.23% 4.96 3.49% Source: Washington State Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) Statewide Recreation Participation Assessment, 2001

• Qualifications – as noted in the preceding section, the Washington State IAC recreation participation data is likely to be similar for residents of British Columbia, since climatic, environmental, and demographic conditions are similar on both sides of the border for the Skagit Valley watershed study area.

However, the diary-based IAC data records actual behavior that has been influenced by a variety of variables including the availability of recreational facilities, use conditions, prices, travel costs, and a variety of other factors.

67 In addition, the rates used in this assessment are based on per capita rates, not age specific rates. The composition of future populations are expected to include a greater percentage of older, potentially retired or retiring adults with different recreational behaviors and interests than the current age composition of the population.

Future recreational behaviors could change from that recorded in the 2001 household diaries and projected in this assessment depending on population aging impacts, recreational facility availability, conditions, and costs, and other variables.

3.6 Projection of recreation activity in 2005 – vicinity and local areas This assessment applied Washington State IAC participation rates to the estimated present day (2005) populations within the vicinity and local service areas to project the likely magnitude of annual users and the number of occasions or volumes in activities of interest to the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. Subject to the limitations outlined in the section above, the projected activities could occur anywhere and not necessarily within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed or even elsewhere in the US and BC.

Vicinity (1-hour) Local (2-4 hour) Projected annual activity in 2005 Users Volune Users Volume Sightseeing - at a scenic area 128,955 318,518 1,091,784 2,696,708 Nature – visiting interpretive centers 51,051 99,549 432,219 842,826 Gathering – food and evergreens 106,181 286,688 898,969 2,427,216 Fishing – freshwater from bank 45,476 187,362 385,020 1,586,284 Fishing – freshwater from a prvt boat 39,989 143,159 338,560 1,212,044 Picnicking – family 84,399 425,370 714,555 3,601,360 Swimming – freshwater beach 39,003 153,672 330,215 1,301,047 Rafting – white water 2,927 6,966 24,781 58,978 Kayaking – freshwater calm 14,353 54,256 121,523 459,355 Kayaking – freshwater - white water 809 3,057 6,846 25,879 Motorboating – freshwater 39,490 142,560 334,341 1,206,972 Water skiing – freshwater 10,880 38,080 92,114 322,401 Snowshoeing 5,377 12,476 45,527 105,623 Sledding/tubing/other snow play 26,002 59,805 220,143 506,330 Snowboarding 14,635 59,270 123,903 501,806 Skiing – cross-country 14,201 62,627 120,232 530,222 Skiing – downhill facility 31,609 139,395 267,613 1,180,171 Snowmobile and atv 14,226 71,700 120,445 607,043 Hiking – mountain/forest trails 60,561 247,091 512,738 2,091,972 Climbing - alpine, snow, and ice 719 2,918 6,086 24,708 Climbing - rock outdoor 3,594 14,592 30,428 123,538 Bike riding – mountain/forest trails 5,908 44,490 50,022 376,666 Bicycle touring – overnight excursions 1,274 10,895 10,788 92,239 Horseback riding - mountain/forest trails 6,272 46,725 53,100 395,591 Camping - with kayak at designated site 2,335 5,652 19,773 47,850 Camping - in boat at designated site 2,161 11,800 18,297 99,903 Backpacking - with self carry packs 8,784 33,204 74,370 281,120 Backpacking - with pack animals 1,086 4,104 9,192 34,745 Bicycle camping - at a campground 3,014 7,234 25,518 61,244 Tent camping - at a campground 28,510 83,533 241,374 707,226 RV camping - at a campground 39,444 197,615 333,949 1,673,087 Archery – hunting 3,218 14,029 27,241 118,772 Firearms - hunting big game 15,152 75,154 128,283 636,281 Note: Vicinity based on 2005 population of 680,680 persons, local on 5,762,916 persons.

68 As shown, the greatest expected annual volume of activity for the populations residing within the service areas is likely occurring in picnicking with family, then sightseeing at a scenic area, gathering food and evergreens, and hiking on a mountain or forest trail.

3.7 Projection of additional recreation activity 2005-2025 – vicinity and local areas This assessment subsequently applied Washington State IAC participation rates to the projected 2025 populations within the vicinity and local service areas to estimate the potential magnitude of additional annual users and number of use occasions or volumes in activities of interest to the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. Subject to the limitations outlined in the preceding sections, the projected additional volumes could occur anywhere and not necessarily within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed or even elsewhere in the US and BC.

Projected number of additional Vicinity (1-hour) Local (2-4 hour) users and volume by 2025 Users Volume Users Volume Sightseeing - at a scenic area 49,310 121,796 290,073 716,481 Nature – visiting interpretive centers 19,521 38,066 114,835 223,928 Gathering – food and evergreens 40,602 109,625 238,845 644,881 Fishing – freshwater from bank 17,389 71,644 102,295 421,456 Fishing – freshwater from a prvt boat 15,291 54,742 89,951 322,025 Picnicking – family 32,273 162,655 189,848 956,836 Swimming – freshwater beach 14,914 58,762 87,734 345,672 Rafting - white water 1,119 2,664 6,584 15,670 Kayaking – freshwater calm 5,489 20,747 32,287 122,045 Kayaking – freshwater - white water 309 1,169 1,819 6,876 Motorboating – freshwater 15,100 54,513 88,830 320,677 Water skiing – freshwater 4,160 14,561 24,474 85,658 Snowshoeing 2,056 4,770 12,096 28,063 Sledding/tubing/other snow play 9,943 22,868 58,489 134,525 Snowboarding 5,596 22,664 32,919 133,323 Skiing - cross-country 5,430 23,947 31,944 140,873 Skiing - downhill facility 12,087 53,302 71,101 313,557 Snowmobile and ATV 5,440 27,417 32,001 161,284 Hiking - mountain/forest trails 23,158 94,484 136,228 555,810 Climbing - alpine, snow, and ice 275 1,116 1,617 6,565 Climbing - rock outdoor 1,374 5,580 8,084 32,823 Bike riding – mountain/forest trails 2,259 17,012 13,290 100,076 Bicycle touring – overnight excursions 487 4,166 2,866 24,507 Horseback riding - mountain/forest trails 2,398 17,867 14,108 105,104 Camping - with kayak at designated site 893 2,161 5,253 12,713 Camping - in boat at designated site 826 4,512 4,861 26,543 Backpacking – with self carry packs 3,359 12,697 19,759 74,690 Backpacking – with pack animals 415 1,569 2,442 9,231 Bicycle camping – at a campground 1,153 2,766 6,780 16,272 Tent camping - at a campground 10,902 31,942 64,130 187,901 RV camping - at a campground 15,083 75,565 88,726 444,518 Archery – hunting 1,230 5,364 7,238 31,556 Firearms – hunting big game 5,794 28,738 34,083 169,052 Note: Vicinity based on 2005 population of 680,680 persons, local on 5,762,916 persons. Note: Vicinity based on 2025 population of 940,961 persons, local on 7,294,050 persons.

As shown, the greatest expected annual additional volume of activity for the populations residing within the service areas is likely to occur in picnicking with family, then sightseeing at a scenic area, gathering food and evergreens, and hiking on a mountain or forest trail.

69 3.8 Capture rates - Ross Lake National Recreation Area There is no source for comprehensive use data on all of the facilities within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed area with which to calculate the area’s capture rate for all recreational activity that occurs of the population in the vicinity or local service areas of the park. However, it is possible to surmise what a possible capture rate could be for the most unique activities that the National Park Service records for backcountry use in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area – hiking and climbing.

2004/2005 Capture rates RLNRA Vicinity Local Activity 2004 Volume Capture Volume Capture Hiking – on a mountain trail 2,216 247,091 0.8968% 2,091,972 0.1059% Climbing – alpine, snow, rock 1,089 17,510 6.2193% 148,246 0.7346% Note: Vicinity based on 2005 population of 680,680 persons, local on 5,762,916 persons.

Based on NPS backcountry permit records for 2004, Ross Lake National Recreational Area (RLNRA) could be capturing 0.8968% of all hiking activity conducted by the population that reside within the vicinity and 0.1059% of the population that resides within the local service areas of the park.

Ross Lake National Recreational Area could be capturing up to 6.2193% of all climbing activity conducted by the population that resides within the vicinity and 0.7346% of the population that resides within the local service areas of the park.

The estimated Ross Lake National Recreational Area capture rates for hiking and climbing were applied to the projected annual volumes estimated to occur between 2005 and 2025 in these activities in the vicinity and local service areas.

2005/2025 Increase RLNRA Vicinity 2025 Local 2025 Activity 2004 Volume Capture Volume Capture Hiking – on a mountain trail 2,216 341,574 3,063 2,647,782 2,804 Climbing – alpine, snow, rock 1,089 24,205 1,505 187,633 1,378 Note: Vicinity based on 2025 population of 940,961 persons, local on 7,294,050 persons.

As shown, were Ross Lake National Recreational Area to capture the same percent of hiking activities as it is currently estimated to be capturing – backcountry hiking volumes would increase from 2,216 in 2004 to 3,063 or by 38% from the population residing within the vicinity service area by 2025. Similarly, climbing volumes would increase from 1,089 in 2004 to 1,505 or by 38% from the population residing within the vicinity service area by 2025.

Similar increases would be expected from the local service area though of a lesser volume due to a lower rate of growth in the local service area and lower overall capture rate. Backcountry hiking volumes, for example, would increase from 2,216 in 2004 to 2,804 or by 27% from the population residing within the local service area by 2025. Similarly, climbing volumes would increase from 1,089 in 2004 to 1,378 or by 27% from the population residing within the local service area by 2025.

3.9 Recreational demand qualifications and implications The following qualifications and implications pertain to the demand forecasts made in this assessment.

• Under the recreational demand capture scenarios described in the preceding pages of this chapter, the volume of recreational activity will increase

70 significantly for all activities in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed due partially to increased population growth within the recreational service areas.

• The volume of recreational activity demand could increase beyond the scenarios in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed if no more facilities are developed or available elsewhere in the region to meet the increased demands forecast for the type of activities that are most unique to the watershed.

• The volume of recreational activity demand could increase beyond the scenario forecast for backcountry activities – if it is assumed that there is a limited supply of this type of opportunity. The volume may actually increase beyond what is forecast if a greater percent of all users and the volume of activity is focused on the Upper Skagit due to scarcity elsewhere.

3.10 Analytical implications The following implications are drawn from the analytical effort to determine and project recreational demands for the watershed study area in the preceding pages of this chapter.

• Incomplete facility utilization information – there is no consistent or current information about facility use volumes, patterns, or trends within the watershed study area. The information available is dated for all but backcountry permitting. An accurate database needs to be developed and maintained of the utilization of all facilities between all agencies on both sides of the border.

• Incomplete survey user behavior and attitudes – user surveys are old and may not reflect current use patterns or opinions. The proposed 2005 survey of SR-20 highway users will provide useful information – but should be replicated to collect similar information from users throughout the watershed study area on a more frequent basis than has been done in the past. In addition, future surveys should include questions about possible policy issues including backcountry access permitting, facility developments, pricing and use allowances, and other options. A systematic survey approach needs to be developed and maintained to measure user opinions and reactions on a regular basis.

• Undetermined user capacity preferences – there is no documented user survey or other data with which to determine acceptable use volumes on backcountry or fringe development sites and facilities. Such information will be critical in order to determine what levels of use are acceptable to watershed visitors. A method of determining user preferences and/or the limits at which user satisfaction and policy support begins to decline needs to be determined and conducted on a regular basis.

71 72 Chapter 4: Workshop observations

The following comments were elicited from surveys of user and interest groups, and the participants of workshops conducted in:

• Blaine Harbor Center in Blaine - on the US side of the border on the 28th of January 2005, and • Yarrow Community Hall in Yarrow - on the BC side of the border on the 23rd of February 2005.

The comments are anecdotal – based on the participant’s experience, opinions, and interests. Following is a brief summary of major issues that have not been identified in the preceding sections from other quantitative sources.

4.1 Archaeological and historical resources • Potentially significant archaeological resources - are located along the former riverbanks below the Ross Lake draw down area. These sites have not been excavated or evaluated by qualified sources. These sites should be buffered from any development impacts – particularly water trail campsite improvements. First Nations should be consulted and asked to provide information about areas or sites of concern. Park visitors should not be made aware or encouraged to explore them.

• Significant historical landmarks - have been recorded in the National Register of Historic Places and on the Historic Resources Survey. These landmarks have been identified on site and on some historic maps. However, the historic assets in the area could be highlighted in future park visitor centers, interpretive programs, and facility maps and brochures.

4.2 Wildlife • Backcountry conflicts with bears – according to anecdotal comments, are growing due to an increase in bears, backcountry hiking and climbing activities, and as a result of user unawareness about bear behavior and conflict prevention. More backcountry bear-proof food caches need to be installed. Bear management and information programs need to be increased and made more effective with backcountry users.

• Poaching – may be a problem, particularly for big game animals like mountain goats that can be hunted in the areas that are easily accessed from roadways. Additional patrols should be conducted along the roadways to determine the extent, cause, and solution to the poaching problem.

• Mushroom and evergreen harvesting – is becoming a major problem during fall season, and especially during hunting season. The BC Conservation Service and US Park Rangers do not have staff sufficient to catch illegal harvesters or authority to enforce harvesting restrictions. Additional patrols should be conducted in the prime harvesting areas prior to and during hunting seasons to reduce harvests and manage potential conflicts.

• Mountain Pine Beetle – infestation is approaching the Skagit Valley and increasing fire hazards. Use management, especially during dry weather, and user education will be required to reduce fire risks.

73 • Backcountry access – is impacting vegetation and wildlife, particularly where roadways provide short and easy travel times. Further roadway improvements, particularly on the Silver-Skagit Road, could have an adverse impact on the valley environment.

4.3 Fishing • Fish management practices - are not consistent on each side of the border. Fish stocks have increased on the BC side due mainly to catch and release management practices. Maybe catch and release policies, or consistent recovery programs, should be adopted on both sides of the border. Also, decisions should be made concerning whether fish stocks should be increased from native stock or supplemented by hatchery stock.

• Fish enforcement practices – are not monitored, and not necessarily followed. Better access to river shorelines increases fishing use and fish habitat impacts. Limiting shoreline access points are an important and effective method of protecting the habitat and restoring fish stocks.

4.4 Water trails • Tree stumps – are a hazard to motorboats and water skiers in the north end of the lake during reservoir draw down periods. However, the stumps provide fish habitat and also control and reduce boat speeds and other aggressive activities on the lake and should be retained.

• Ross Lake Day Use Area boat ramp – is not usable during high draw down periods – and increasing drought weather conditions. The ramp should be extended or relocated south to allow for a longer use period.

• Mosquitoes – are an especially acute problem at Hozomeen Campground and a hazard throughout the lake considering the increased risk involved with West Nile Virus during wet years. Bats and other natural predator habitat should be increased. Camp amphitheater and shelters should be screened.

• Trailhead access for non-motorized craft at the south end of Ross Lake on SR-20 – is too small to accommodate parked vehicles during overnight trips on Ross Lake. The site should be increased to provide more overnight parking stalls.

• Ross Lake carrying capacity – is dependent on the experience desired. Water access to camping is a unique experience and should be protected, especially for scouts and guides who need this type of education and experience. However, management controls will be necessary given the increasing volumes of users.

4.5 Hiking trails • Trans-Canada (Heritage) Trail - Trails BC and Backcountry Horsemen would like to reopen and connect a heritage segment of the Trans-Canada Trail through Skagit Valley Provincial Park into the Cascade Recreation Area. The proposal would open a trail east from Chilliwack Lake to Silverhope Creek, then continue east on a realignment of the Centennial Trail to the Skagit River, then north on the Skagit River Trail to Sumallo Grove, then north on the Dewdney Trail into the Cascade Recreation Area. The proposed trail, if approved, would be built to accommodate hikers, horses, and mountain bikes on some segments.

74 • Depot Creek Trail – has generally not been maintained and over grown along the 30-foot wide buffer at the BC/US border. The trail has been used as a smuggling route in the past and is of concern to Homeland Security. A long-term plan needs to be resolved for this trail segment – possibly relocating the portion away from the border security zone.

• East Bank/Lightning Creek/Hozomeen Trail – demands are increasing for Boy Scout merit badge qualifications (groups of 12 – would like 30 or more), and commercial adventure and hiking groups. Campsites are the limiting factor and are managed on a first come first serve basis. Commercial camping groups are the only ones that can reserve campsites ahead of time under current management practices. Management practices should be evaluated to determine the carrying capacity of the campsites and equitably distribute permits among competing groups.

• Big Beaver/Little Beaver Trail Loop – demands are also increasing due to the popularity of the trail and partially to the convenient water taxi access provided by Ross Lake Resort at the trailhead on Ross Lake. Management practices should be evaluated to determine the carrying capacity of the campsites and equitably distribute permits among competing groups.

• Little Beaver Trail – washes out more often than any other trail segments in the park. The trail segment should be relocated and/or rebuilt to withstand heavy rainfalls.

• Trail maintenance – is an issue because BC Parks does not have adequate staff to maintain and manage existing trails, or new ones. User groups would like more opportunities to participate in trail maintenance, but can create risk and liability issues for the agency.

4.6 Horse trails • Horse trails throughout the park – are in poor condition and need maintenance and upgrading. Maintenance staffing has been reduced, however, particularly on the BC side as have user volumes on most backcountry trails and horse camps. The horse camps that have been built, are not heavily used, primarily because of rough access roadways on damages incurred towing horse trailers.

• Some horse trails such as Shawatum and Maselpanik/Depot to Galeen Lakes - have not been maintained due to agency staff reductions. BC horse user groups would like to see these trails reopened using volunteer maintenance efforts if necessary.

4.7 Biking trails – backcountry and on-road tours • Bicycle touring on SR-20 – is increasing for individual and group rides. Some consideration should be given for providing midpoint services at layover points, particularly during bad weather.

• Bicycle touring on Hope Princeton Highway (BC-3) – has not been developed as much as on the US side. Some efforts should be made to develop layovers, camping sites, and other services for the Hicks to Hope touring proposal.

• Backcountry trails in the Skagit Valley – are not designed or designated to accommodate hiking, horses, and mountain bikes. There is a very high demand

75 for mountain biking trails in the lower mainland. If this use were to be accommodated here, it would have to be to International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) trail standards working with accredited mountain biking guides.

4.8 Winter trails • The trailhead at the west end of SR-20 – is too small to accommodate snowmobile and cross-country skiers on peak days. Peak demands can exceed 100 snowmobile trailers on a peak day. A management plan should be developed for dealing with the increasing demand for this winter activity.

4.9 Climbing • Rock climbing at Newhalem – is becoming a problem. Rock climbing can damage vegetation and habitat, alter the appearance of rock outcrops in scenic areas, and create problems with parking and traffic safety. A management plan should be developed to control the activity, reduce risk, and conserve the rock faces.

• Rock climbing on the BC side – is conducted by small groups as an extreme sport. Several of the mountain peaks offer good climbing opportunities if the sites can be easily and not disruptively accessed.

4.10 Campsites • Manning Provincial Park campsites – do not provide recreational vehicle services including electric, water, and sewer because park sites lack treatment facilities. There is a great demand and future campground projects should install recreational vehicle services along with shower facilities.

• The Canadian Park System will celebrate a 100th Anniversary in 2011 – with an awareness campaign that will also be geared to the Olympics.

• National Park Service campgrounds – are underutilized except on peak weekends. Newhalem campground is rarely filled to capacity. New camping facilities should not be provided until these sites are more fully utilized.

• Group camping facilities at Newhalem and Goodell – are very popular with Canadian family groups, North Cascades Institute, and other youth programs. The sites are allocated on a first come first serve basis – but probably should be allocated on a reservation program given the increasing demand for the sites.

• Campgrounds in BC – are closed during most of the hunting season, and there are not condoned locations to leave vehicles overnight during the campground closures. Campground operators have contracts for summer and some of the fall, but hunters would to camp during the hunting season.

4.11 Interpretive facilities • Lack of funding is restricting the operation of interpretive programs, facilities, and other information – on both sides of the border. Manning Provincial Park provides interpretive services using contractors. The interpretive program at Hozomeen is funded by SEEC. Seattle City Light provides programs using fees from internal funding sources. North Cascades Institute provides programs using some funding from SEEC. A comprehensive planning effort should be undertaken involving all parties to determine the most effective and cost efficient method of providing interpretive programs. A possibility may be to consolidate funding and programs to central sites and facilities that are more

76 accessible and efficient to operate. Some particular opportunities include front- country interpretive trail loops, a screened amphitheater at the 49th Parallel with access from both sides of the border, wildlife-viewing overlooks, and a mushroom interpretive trail.

4.12 Accommodations in park No workshop comments were made for this category.

4.13 General observations by the participants • Recreational demands are and will continue to increase in the Upper Skagit River watershed – due partly to population increases and also to the unique scenic and recreational qualities of the area. The greatest demands will likely occur for activities that are popular with larger public user group related to the unique qualities of the area – such as bird and wildlife observation, nature study, sightseeing.

• Interpretive centers and programs, like North Cascade Institute’s (NCI) soon to be opened facility – increase public exposure, interest, and demand for access to park facilities and areas. NCI’s facility could provide program exposure to 4,000 or more people per month – mostly youth, who will then want to explore the park areas more fully. Expect NCI, SEEC, Seattle City Light, and other like programs to stimulate demands for additional facility developments and access to Upper Skagit River watershed areas.

• Recreational facilities have been developed close to capacity in the backcountry - mainly on the US side, and not much more can be accommodated in some areas without degrading the environment and the experience.

• Campground and other more accessible recreational facilities have not been developed to capacity in some of the more accessible edges of the parks along BC-3 and SR-20 – but can not be expanded due to the lack of funding and cost involved in providing infrastructure and maintenance.

• Portions of the area are underutilized – and use has not changed very much in the past 20 years. The main deterrents to use are the rough roadways and biting insects. It is therefore, important to not overbuild facilities in these back areas.

• BC and US park systems are strapped for funds – especially for maintenance, operations, and enforcement. Neither program expects to see funding shortfalls resolved soon. Both programs expect pressures to raise user fees, use contract staff, and privatize park facilities and operations to increase, particularly on the BC side. Both programs are concerned about how such efforts can be effectively managed and whether such efforts will improve park services and experiences. Public resistance to park fees is very high on the BC side, where taxes are considered adequate for park management. There is a public sentiment in BC that existing facilities should be cared for properly before building new ones.

• Public awareness and support for the watershed area – are relatively low, compared to the huge support that occurred when there was a threat of flooding in the 1980s. There is opportunity for a group such as the “Friends of the Skagit” to become involved in the management of the area.

77 4.14 Workshop implications The following implications are drawn from the anecdotal comments elicited from the surveys and workshops documented in the preceding pages of this chapter.

• Interpretive programs at points of interest – that are delivered at park entrances, visitor centers, shelters, and other fixed or static displays are currently or at risk of being under funded in future park budgets. Given the changing information available on the watershed, and the possibility of incorporating user input and policy information, these interpretive programs must be kept current, timely, and informative to the user.

• Interpretive programs in the field – that are delivered during hands-on interpretive experiences to youth, adult, or special populations at important sites or features within the watershed parks are not likely to be funded in future park budgets. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to operate controlled excursions that increase the potential number of people who enjoy the watershed, and learn and begin to value the experience, while protecting sensitive areas.

• Youth camps – that deliver extended recreational and interpretive experiences to young populations are not likely to be funded with limited and declining park agency budgets. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to operate youth camps that increase the percentage of visitors under controlled, least impact conditions to the environment and other users, and build public support for conservation and management efforts.

• Adult camps – can deliver the same experiences youth are availed to the larger adult populations, particularly the increasingly active older adult age groups. Like youth camps, adult programs can control the park experience and impact, and generate considerable public support and volunteerism. In fact, adult camps have been found to be effective in motivating and training volunteers who can conduct or guide other youth and adult camp programs. Volunteer or non-profit assistance will be needed to help organize, schedule, house, and assist with funding.

• Volunteer maintenance efforts – will be needed whereby organizations or group work parties provide back-logged renovation and repair projects that will not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer projects could be an adjunct to youth and adult group camp programs, or part of extended day-tripper events, or special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. Park agencies will need help to define, schedule, and organize maintenance programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

• Volunteer guides or ranger efforts – will be needed whereby organizations or individuals provide interpretive programs, tours, or excursions that would not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer guides and staff could help conduct youth and adult group camp programs, or extended day-tripper events, or special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. Park agencies will need help to define, schedule, and organize guide and ranger programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

78 Chapter 5: Strategic alternatives

Following is a brief description of 3 alternative strategies that could respond to the recreational demand pressures expected on the Upper Skagit Valley watershed along with recommendations for action.

5.1 Alternative 1 - increase facility capacity Under this alternative - a program could be initiated to expand existing and develop new facilities to meet increased recreational demands throughout the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. The purpose of the watershed-wide expansion program could be to attract a larger volume and wider range of visitors and interests.

The watershed-wide development program could improve and/or increase the capacity of many existing facilities including trails and campsites in the backcountry areas, boat facilities and campgrounds along the waterfronts, and visitor centers and lodging accommodations along the scenic highways.

For example, the watershed-wide facility expansion approach could pave Silver Lake/Skagit Road from Hope to Hozomeen to increase public access to Ross Lake, or increase the docking facilities on Ross Lake to increase motorized boat access, etc.

Benefits A watershed-wide facility expansion and development program could have the following benefits:

• Utilization – might be improved in all park facilities, particularly the underused campgrounds located along the scenic highways and at the edges of the park that are not used to capacity at the present time. • Access and exposure – could be increased to a greater number of potential park users who would not otherwise have an opportunity to see and enjoy the unique scenic and other assets of the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. • Appreciation and support – could be increased for a wider population than would otherwise occur, possibly increasing support for more funding and increased conservation efforts. • Marketability – might be increased due to exposure to a larger population and user group that could support more nonprofit and private concession and operator involvement in Upper Skagit Valley watershed park opportunities.

Drawbacks A watershed-wide facility expansion and development program, however, could have the following drawbacks:

• Capacity – could be exceeded in some areas, particularly the backcountry where the environment as well as the experience could be degraded. Once exceeded, it would be difficult to recover the resource or remove the user. • Maintenance – could be difficult to fund, especially if public park agencies are having difficulty funding current operations on both sides of the border. An aggressive development program could create an even higher non-funded future workload.

79 • Management control – might be difficult to maintain, particularly if for-profit operations become involved and are considered to be a principal provider of park services.

5.2 Alternative 2 - limit recreation use Under this alternative, efforts could be initiated to contain existing facility developments and limit the future use and development of additional park facilities and programs within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed.

A use containment program could limit development of and access to every facility including trails and campsites in the backcountry areas, boating facilities and campgrounds along the waterfronts, and visitor centers and lodging accommodations along the scenic highways.

For example, a use containment program could require advance registration of all backcountry and campground sites, or require boat permits on Ross Lake as a means of controlling the number of users in the watershed at one time.

Benefits A use containment program could have the following benefits:

• Capacity – could not be exceeded, particularly in the backcountry thereby protecting the environment as well as the experience. • Maintenance – could be somewhat easier to accomplish, especially if no new facilities are added to the inventory. • Management control – might be easier to maintain, particularly if for-profit operations are not involved and are not considered a principal provider of park services within the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. • Utilization – might improve in all park facilities, particularly the underused campgrounds located along the scenic highways and at the edges of the park that are not used to capacity at the present time.

Drawbacks A use containment program, however, could have the following drawbacks:

• Access and exposure – could be limited to a decreasing percent of the population who would not be exposed to or enjoy the unique scenic and other assets of the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. • Appreciation and support – could decline, possibly further reducing support for more funding and increased conservation efforts. • Marketability – might decline reducing interest and involvement by nonprofit and private concession and operators in Upper Skagit Valley watershed park opportunities. • Enforcement – could be difficult given population increases and the interest a growing user group may have in accessing park facilities – formally or informally, legally or otherwise.

5.3 Alternative 3 - manage facility capacity and increase group outreach Under this strategic approach, a program could improve or expand selective existing and develop selective new facilities to meet increased recreational interest in the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. A strategic development program could increase facilities and programs that serve the interests of a large segment

80 of the population that are easiest and least intrusive to accommodate in the watershed.

For example, a strategic development approach might expand and develop visitor centers and lodging accommodations at the gateways along the scenic highways. A strategic program approach might also operate more group camps and outings as a way of increasing public use and exposure but under controlled impacts and schedules. The approach could also include more involvement of user groups in programming and park management activities.

At the same time, a strategic effort might be undertaken to contain existing facility developments and limit usage of selective park facilities and programs in the most fragile areas of the Upper Skagit Valley watershed. A strategic use containment program could limit development of and access to fragile backcountry trails and campsites to levels consistent with environmental and user carrying capacities.

For example, a strategic containment approach might allocate backcountry access on a reservation basis rather than first-come-first-serve as a means of equalizing availability and equity. A strategic containment program approach might also favor access for more group outings as a way of controlling impacts and schedules.

Benefits A selective development program and use containment approach could have the following benefits:

• Utilization – might be improved in existing park facilities, particularly the underused campgrounds located along the scenic highways and at the edges of the park that are not used to capacity at the present time. • Access and exposure – could be increased to a greater number of potential park users who would not otherwise have an opportunity to see and enjoy the unique scenic and other assets of the Upper Skagit Valley watershed – particularly at controlled impact points. • Appreciation and support – could be increased for a wider population than would otherwise occur, possibly increasing support for more funding and increased conservation efforts. • Marketability – might be increased for targeted areas due to the exposure to a larger population and user group that could support more nonprofit and private concession and operator involvement in Upper Skagit Valley watershed park opportunities. • Capacity – could not be exceeded, particularly in the backcountry thereby protecting the environment as well as the experience.

Drawbacks A selective development and use containment approach, however, could have the following drawbacks:

• Maintenance – could still be difficult to fund, especially if public park agencies are having difficulty funding current operations on both sides of the border. A selective development program would still create an increased non- funded future workload. • Management control – might be difficult to maintain and balance, particularly if for-profit operations become involved and are considered to be an important provider of park services.

81 5.4 Recommendations The following recommendations are based on the inventory and analysis of existing resources and facilities, projections of recreational demand, workshop comments, and the consultant team’s observations.

Data collection and management An on-going, comprehensive assessment of watershed study area facilities, use patterns, user surveys, and capacity determinations must be accomplished in order resolve current and effective management plans and impacts.

• Maintain inventory – as shown in this assessment, there are significant information gaps regarding facilities in the Upper Skagit River Watershed study area. The facility data that is maintained is not consistent between agencies or on both sides of the border. Some of this information may be available, but has not been recorded on digital maps or in park brochures. Some of this information may only be compiled through field investigations. Regardless, SEEC could help complete and fund the maintenance of an accurate comprehensive inventory of existing facilities along with an assessment of conditions and use.

• Monitor facility utilization – as shown in this assessment, there is no consistent or current information about facility use volumes, patterns, or trends within the watershed study area. The information available is dated for all but backcountry permitting. SEEC could help develop and fund the maintenance of an accurate database for determining facility usage for all facilities between all agencies on both sides of the border.

• Survey user behavior and attitudes – as also shown in this report, user surveys are old and may not reflect current use patterns or opinions. The proposed 2005 survey of SR-20 highway users will provide useful information – but should be replicated to collect similar information from users throughout the watershed study area on a more frequent basis than has been done in the past. In addition, future surveys should include questions about possible policy issues including backcountry access permitting, facility developments, pricing and use allowances, and other options. SEEC could help develop and fund survey approaches that measure user opinions and reactions to conditions and policy issues on both sides of the border on a regular basis.

• Determine facility carrying capacities – apart from anecdotal comments, there are no documented determinations of the environmental carrying capacity of some of the watershed’s most sensitive facilities and environments. Such information will be critical if the proposed strategic approach is to limit backcountry use to avoid environmental degradations. SEEC could help define and fund a method of determining and monitoring the maximum carrying capacity appropriate to some of the most sensitive backcountry sites that may be incorporated into park management plans and control facility development proposals.

• Determine user capacity preferences – as part of the above, there is no documented user survey or other data to determine acceptable use volumes on backcountry or fringe development sites and facilities. Such information will be critical if the proposed strategy approach is to limit use of developed facilities at the edge of the parks and outside of the backcountry areas. SEEC could help define and fund methods of determining user preferences and/or the limits at which user satisfaction and policy support begin to decline.

82 Programming The following program information and content must be developed to more effectively inform the public about existing resources and thereby build support for protecting watershed resources and attributes.

• Identify historical/cultural attributes – on maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites of the watershed area that are targeted towards visitors. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed cultural and historical inventories of the watershed area. However, these attributes are not identified on maps, guidebooks, CDs or websites that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of natural history, this oversight needs to be corrected. SEEC could help create and fund the production of recreation-oriented maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites that locate and identify sites that can be visited, interpreted, and enjoyed without risk to the attribute. The visiting public will more likely support preservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the attributes to be protected.

• Identify wildlife habitat areas – on maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites of the watershed area that are targeted towards visitors. SEEC and other parties have funded a number of detailed wildlife inventories and assessments in the watershed area. However, like the cultural inventories described above, wildlife habitats are not identified on maps, guidebooks, CDs, or websites that are distributed to the public. Given the increasing interest in this aspect of the environment, this oversight needs to be corrected. SEEC could help create and fund the production of recreation-oriented maps, guidebooks, CDs, and websites that would locate and identify wildlife habitat areas that can be observed and enjoyed without risk to the species, user, or environment. Like cultural attributes, the visiting public will more likely support wildlife habitat conservation efforts if they are aware and informed of the value of the habitat to be protected.

• Continue to develop interpretive programs – which can be delivered by park staff and supplemented by volunteers and self-guided exhibits at the watershed parks entrances, visitor centers, shelters, and other points of interest. Based on anecdotal comments, these programs are currently or at risk of being under funded in future park budgets. Given the changing information available on the watershed, and the possibility of incorporating user input and policy information, these interpretive programs must be kept current, timely, and informative to the user. SEEC could continue to help fund park agency staff positions and fund programs that create, organize, and manage research and production efforts for interpretive programs delivered by staff and volunteers.

• Continue to conduct interpretive programs in the field – which can be delivered by park staff and supplemented by volunteers or organized groups that can deliver hands-on interpretive experiences to youth, adult, or special populations at important sites or features within the watershed parks. Tour buses, boats, or trail excursions can be used to provide interpretive experiences up close and personal on a day use and/or on a “leave-no-trace” basis without intruding upon sensitive areas or other users. Controlled excursions can increase the potential number of people who can enjoy the watershed, and learn and begin to value the experience, without intruding upon sensitive areas or other users. Based on anecdotal comments, such programs are not likely to be funded with limited and declining park agency budgets. SEEC could continue to help fund park agency staff positions and fund programs that create, organize, and

83 manage field interpretive program efforts using selective assistance from volunteer and non-profit groups.

Recreational use The following recreational program services must be developed and operated to make more effective use of limited facility capacity.

• Continue to operate youth camps – in which park agency staff supplemented by volunteers or organized groups can deliver extended recreational and interpretive experiences to young populations. Camp programs provide young users the opportunity of enjoying the outdoors experience, learning the value of the environment, enjoying the experience with peers, and volunteering to help maintain or even build appropriate infrastructure such as trails or exhibits. Youth camps increase the percentage of visitors under controlled, least impact conditions to the environment and other users. The camps also build public support for conservation and management efforts. Based on anecdotal comments, such camps are not likely to be funded with limited and declining park agency budgets. SEEC could continue to fund park agency staff that can organize, schedule, house, and manage staff and volunteer operations of youth camp facilities and programs.

• Operate adult camps – in which park agency staff supplemented by volunteers or organized groups can deliver the same experiences youth are availed to the larger adult populations, particularly the increasingly active older adult age groups. Like youth camps, adult programs can control the park experience and impact, and generate considerable public support and volunteerism. In fact, adult camps have been found to be effective in motivating and training volunteers who can conduct or guide other youth and adult camp programs – often charging the adult volunteer a fee for the training experience in the process. SEEC could help fund park agency staff that can organize, schedule, house, and manage staff and volunteer operations of adult camp facilities and programs.

• Operate corporate camps – in which park agency staff can deliver the same experiences youth are availed to a controlled corporate camp or retreat experience. Like youth camps, corporate camp programs can provide a facility for management retreats, control the park experience and impact, and generate considerable corporate support and volunteerism. In fact, corporate camps have been found to be effective in motivating and harnessing corporate resources in a variety of ways ranging from maintenance and construction projects to the development of marketing and management procedures – often charging the corporation a fee for the facility and retreat experience in the process. SEEC could help fund park agency staff that can organize, schedule, house, and manage the operation of corporate camp facilities and programs.

Facility development The following facility developments must be accomplished to better display watershed park information and contain high volumes of users at fringe locations that can enjoy but not intrude upon the watershed proper.

• Expand visitor centers and exhibits including virtual – whereby visitors can experience an increasing array of on-site or in-park experiences using interactive videos, websites, and center exhibitions. According to the survey information, most users have been and may continue to be day-trippers who drive through or intermittently stop at roadside attractions. More interactive exhibits, virtual or

84 otherwise, could provide a more effective and satisfying introduction for the day- tripper increasing their support for park preservation efforts in the process, yet containing their impacts to controlled locations. Based on anecdotal comments, such exhibits are not likely to be funded with limited and declining park agency budgets. SEEC could continue to help fund agency staff positions and programs that can research, produce, and conduct exhibits.

• Support development of clustered activity centers and facilities – outside watershed park boundaries at Newhalem and Winthrop, Sunshine Village and Manning that increase use capacity at locations that can be effectively contained and buffered. The watershed can not be made off-limits for the recreational needs of the increasing surrounding area populations and remain viable. Contained activity clusters, whether public and/or private, could increase user volumes in a contained or controlled manner, especially if managed under a reservation access system, that would be more effective and increase public support for the preservation of backcountry areas. SEEC could provide an advocate role defining appropriate (and inappropriate) clustered development possibilities to park agencies and elected officials that effectively coincide with SEEC’s preservation and recreational objectives for the watershed.

• Selectively improve frontcountry facilities – in environmentally capable frontcountry areas that increase use capacity and variety at locations that can be effectively contained and managed. Upgrade existing campgrounds and sites, to provide recreational vehicle hook-ups and group camp facilities, and consider expanding retreat and resort cabin facilities. Expand campsites that serve day- use and possibly some limited overnight group camps to support interpretive tours or excursions into appropriate backcountry areas as a means of increasing public exposure to the backcountry without overloading sensitive sites or trails. SEEC could provide an advocate role defining appropriate (and inappropriate) frontcountry improvement proposals to park agencies and elected officials that effectively coincide with SEEC’s preservation and recreational objectives for the watershed.

• Selectively improve backcountry facilities – in environmentally capable backcountry areas that increase use capacity and variety at locations that can be effectively contained and managed. Upgrade backcountry trails, for example, that serve a wide variety of interests including anglers, day hikers, backpackers, and horse and pack animal trail users. Where appropriate, expand trail networks to provide access northwest of Ross Lake and in BC backcountry watershed areas, rock and alpine climbing locations, cultural and historical sites, wildlife viewing areas, and unique vistas. SEEC could provide an advocate role defining appropriate (and inappropriate) frontcountry improvement proposals to park agencies and elected officials that effectively coincide with SEEC’s preservation and recreational objectives for the watershed.

Maintenance and operations The following maintenance and operation programs must be implemented to help supplement public agency staff and resources during limited or potentially declining budgetary cycles.

• Organize volunteer maintenance projects and programs – whereby organizations or group work parties provide backlogged renovation and repair projects that will not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer projects could be an adjunct to youth, adult, and corporate group camp programs, or part of extended day-tripper events, or

85 special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. SEEC could help fund agency staff positions and programs that can define, schedule, and organize maintenance programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

• Organize volunteer guides or ranger efforts – whereby organizations or individuals provide park-site management and interpretive programs, tours, or excursions that would not be accomplished otherwise or are not high priority items for agency staff. Volunteer park hosts, guides, and staff could help conduct youth and adult group camp programs, or extended day-tripper events, or special excursions scheduled and conducted by trail, fish, or other organizations. SEEC could fund agency staff positions and programs that help define, schedule, and organize guide and ranger programs that are effective, manageable, and productive to agency staff and user interests alike.

5.5 SEEC role and responsibilities A strategic approach will require SEEC to continue to perform the following:

• Involvement - SEEC must continue to participate in planning efforts with other public and private agencies on both sides of the border if SEEC is to be aware of and have impact on selective facility and program development efforts. • Planning - SEEC should support efforts to analyze long-range recreation demands and needs, and existing and projected park conditions in order to recognize and be prepared to act on opportunities. • Priorities - SEEC must refine policies and outline actions to be undertaken should strategic opportunities arise that cannot be readily addressed by the agencies. • Commitment - SEEC must continue to provide or help fund appropriate staff expertise and budgets with which to implement strategic planning programs and projects when no other agency can or is able within a strategic time schedule.

As outlined in the recommended actions in the preceding pages of this summary, SEEC should continue to perform a strategic role helping to facilitate or fund selective program and facility developments by:

• Performing as a facilitator - where unique acquisition or development or program operation opportunities may occur that could eventually be implemented or operated by other public, nonprofit or private agencies. • Funding facilities and programs - on an emergency or as needed basis that no other agency can or is willing to provide.

86 Appendices

87 88