The National Park Service, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration’s Western Federal Lands Highway Division, announced a public‑input process for a proposed replacement of the historic suspension bridge that once crossed the Carbon River into the Grove of the Patriarchs. The bridge, originally built in 1961, was permanently closed and removed after severe flood damage and river drift in November 2021.
Proposed design and timeline
Engineers are planning a new suspension bridge roughly 215 feet long—about twice the length of the original structure—and elevated 30 to 35 feet above the riverbed. The design aims to improve long‑term resilience against extreme weather while protecting the surrounding old‑growth forest and its wildlife. Specialized construction methods, such as high‑line cable delivery, will be used to avoid disturbing delicate tree roots, and work schedules will be coordinated to safeguard threatened species including the Northern Spotted Owl and the Marbled Murrelet.
Public meetings
Two public meetings are scheduled to share engineering renderings, project timelines, and environmental stewardship plans, and to answer questions from the community:
- In‑person open house: Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the White Pass Country Museum, 12990 U.S. Highway 12, Packwood, WA 98361.
- Virtual meeting: Thursday, August 27, 2026, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. via the project’s website (see link below).
Additional information, including an interactive GIS story map and the webinar link, is available at parkplanning.nps.gov/GroveOfThePatriarchsBridgeAndTrail.
Construction schedule
Construction of the bridge and associated trail improvements is slated to begin in 2028, with an anticipated opening to the public in 2029. The project is part of a broader effort to restore full trail access to the ancient old‑growth forest loop that draws hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts from across the Pacific Northwest.
Why the project matters
The Grove of the Patriarchs is a cherished natural area featuring towering western redcedar, Douglas fir, and western hemlock trees that are over 500 years old. Restoring safe, reliable access supports recreation, education, and local tourism while honoring the park’s responsibility to protect vulnerable wildlife and the integrity of the forest ecosystem.
Stakeholders are encouraged to attend the meetings, review the project materials, and provide feedback that will help shape the final design and implementation plan.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
