Chinook Pass closure extended as forest fire continues to spread

Travelers this week heading to Mount Rainier National Park by way of Chinook Pass are in for a detour.

A section of Highway 410, just east of the pass, remains closed as crews continue battling the Norse Peak Fire. The estimated opening time is Wednesday night.

The state Department of Transportation has closed that section of the highway because the fire is burning in steep, rocky terrain close to the roadway, making it unsafe for travelers.

It is one of several fires sparked by lightning on Aug. 10 and 11.

The Norse Peak Fire, which has consumed more than 17,000 acres, is threatening the Crystal Mountain ski resort. Crystal Mountain Boulevard is closed and access is limited to residents, hotel guests and service delivery trucks.

Highway 410 is one of the major roads leading to Mount Rainier.

The westbound closure is at Bumping River Road at milepost 88.5. Bumping River Road is open for now, but conditions can change rapidly, the transportation department reported.

Motorists on the east side can take Highway 12 over White Pass to reach the park.

The eastbound closure starts at the viewpoint at milepost 69.4, east of the summit.

This story was originally published September 4, 2017 at 5:24 PM with the headline "Chinook Pass closure extended as forest fire continues to spread."