News Release

Mount Rainier National Park Announces Fall Construction Activities for Fryingpan Creek Bridge Replacement Project

News Release Date: September 30, 2026

Ashford, Wash. — Mount Rainier National Park, in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration, will begin construction activities for the Fryingpan Creek Bridge Replacement Project on Sept. 28.  The multiyear project will replace the existing bridge, improve visitor access and address long-term infrastructure needs in the area.

The new Fryingpan Creek Bridge will be constructed downstream from the existing bridge and designed to complement the historic structure while meeting modern engineering standards. The project also includes improvements to the Summerland Trailhead parking area. Construction is anticipated to be completed by late fall 2029.

Work this fall will focus primarily on tree removal and preparation for major construction activities beginning in spring 2027. Crews will also begin documenting and salvaging historic stone masonry from the bridge abutments.

Travel and Access Impacts
The Summerland Trailhead, parking area and surrounding areas are currently closed to visitor and administrative access and will remain closed for the duration of the project. Visitors accessing the Summerland area via the Wonderland Trail must use an alternative trailhead.

No section of the Wonderland Trail will be closed because of the project. However, access to areas east of the bridge will have shorter season during construction to support timely completion of the new bridge.
During construction, visitors in the area should expect:

• Work hours generally from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• One-lane traffic restrictions during and after active construction hours.
• Traffic delays of up to 30 minutes.

For current information on park operations, construction activities and safety advisories, please visit the park website and social media channels.

-nps.gov-

RSS Feed | What is RSS?