Conclusion

V. Conclusions

This report summarizes the major findings from the 2020 survey of Mountain Loop area visitors and residents (n=1,241) conducted to inform the Mountain Loop Highway Visioning Process for the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This online survey was collaboratively designed and administered by WTA. The purpose was to learn about the places, activities, and values important to a wide variety of people, as well as to identify the management concerns and access needs people identify in the Mountain Loop area. The survey’s mapping interface allowed us to observe the patterns in responses both topically and spatially.

Favorite outdoor activities in the Mountain Loop area included: hiking/walking, backpacking, camping, and viewing nature. The most important places identified by respondents were Mt. Dickerman/Perry Creek, Gothic Basin, Lake 22, Mt. Pilchuck, and Monte Cristo. Access needs were identified at the Three Fingers trailhead (road improvement), Big Four Ice Caves (bridge repair), and Monte Cristo (trail improvement). When asked to identify management concerns, respondents most often mentioned high visitor volumes (especially Lake 22, Gothic Basin, Mt. Pilchuck), litter and waste, and ecological impacts. These findings offer important perspectives on how the USFS and its partners, such as WTA, can allocate resources to ensure the provision of valued facilities and services, protect people’s favored places, and commit to enhancing outdoor experiences for all people who spend time in the Mountain Loop area. By providing a glimpse of survey respondents’ perspectives on the Mountain Loop area, this report provides an important source of information to inform our future visioning, planning, and investment in this highly valued and visited area.