Graves Creek Road in Olympic National Park has reopened following bridge repairs. 

The opening includes Graves Creek Campground and the East Fork Quinault Trail to Enchanted Valley. The “Pony Bridge” replacement project is ongoing, however, and there will be another short closure of Graves Creek Road in August to finalize repairs, according to Olympic National Park.

Additionally, park scientists have encountered numerous bears in this area. Visitors traveling to Enchanted Valley should be prepared for bear encounters, including bears that may be habituated to humans.

Bears have also been observed near the North Fork Quinault Campground and along the Irely Creek Trail.

Officials say that while observing wildlife safety guidelines is always important, with the high level of bear activity this spring, proper food storage is vital.

Bear canisters are required for anyone camping at Enchanted Valley. Bear canisters can be loaned to anyone with a Wilderness Permit. Canisters can be obtained from the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles or the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station.

In addition to proper food storage, visitors are highly encouraged to refresh their wildlife safety by visiting the park’s webpage at nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/wildlife-safety.htm.

All backpackers must have a Wilderness Permit to stay overnight in the backcountry. Permits can be obtained online at recreation.gov or in person at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles or the Quinault Rain Forest Ranger Station on North Shore Road in Quinault.

As the “Pony Bridge” replacement project continues, hikers can expect short delays as crews allow hikers to pass over the bridge. Officials request that visitors show respect for the crews and wait for their directions before entering the project area.  

Graves Creek is located in the Quinault area of the park, for more information go to nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/quinault-area-brochure.htm.

More details on backpacking in the park can be found at nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/backpacking-faq.htm.