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In the afternoon, from 2-3 p.m., a ranger will give a presentation at the gazebo at Kalaloch Lodge. Most evenings, from 8-9 p.m., rangers give a program at the Kalaloch Campground Amphitheater about the coastal wilderness of the park.
Rangers at the Mora area of the park, just north of La Push, also offer programs. A program is held 8-9 p.m. at the campground amphitheater. Participants should be ready for cold or wet weather and also should bring a flashlight.
Visitors also have one final chance to take part in the Rialto Beach Ramble on Saturday. The walk goes from 10 a.m.-noon and gives participants a chance to explore the cultural and natural history of the area. People who want to take part should meet the ranger at the Rialto Beach parking lot bulletin board.
To get specific dates for programs, go to nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/events.htm.
SEASONAL SHUTDOWNS
Operations in the northeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park will soon shut down for the winter.
At Sunrise, the visitor center is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday until Sept. 25. The center provides visitor information, has a new set of exhibits, is the site for ranger programs and has a small gift shop.
The Sunrise Day Lodge, snack bar and gift shop will be open next weekend and then shut down for the season.
The White River Campground is scheduled to close Sept. 25.
Park visitors will still have two options for camping. The car campgrounds at Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh will remain open through Oct. 10.
If you prefer softer accommodations, the last weekend to visit Paradise Inn is Oct. 1. The inn, which provides lodging, dining and a gift shop, will close its doors for the season Oct. 3. The National Park Inn at Longmire is open year-round. For reservation information, call 360-569-2275, or go online at mtrainierguestservices.com.
Jeffrey P. Mayor: 253-597-8640
jeff.mayor@thenewstribune.com
blog.thenewstribune.com/adventure
