Big problems are piling up at The Enchantments

The Enchantments are one of Washington State’s most popular hiking destinations. But right now, the alpine wilderness area is far from the pristine escape visitors are hoping for. Bathroom pits are overflowing, there’s garbage on the trails, and it’s overcrowded. There’s only one forest ranger to patrol more than 900 miles of terrain in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The problems stem from federal budget cuts. Seattle Times outdoors reporter Gregory Scruggs is here to tell us more.

We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.

Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.