OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK — After a seven-week closure, Enchanted Valley has been reopened to overnight camping, Olympic National Park announced.
The area was closed April 24 after visitors reported that black bears had acquired and eaten human food and had approached and appeared unafraid of humans.
Rangers and wildlife biologists have monitored the area since then and have found that bear behavior appears to have returned to normal in recent weeks.
“It’s vitally important to human safety and the park’s bears that visitors are diligent about keeping all food, food waste and scented items secured and inaccessible to wildlife,” said Sarah Creachbaum, Olympic National Park superintendent.
Bear canisters are available for loan from the park’s wilderness information centers and some park ranger stations.
A suggested $3 donation per canister helps sustain the canister loan program and provide visitor information and education.
Wilderness-use permits are required for all overnight hiking trips and are available for a $5 nightly fee at all Olympic National Park wilderness information centers.