Thursday, May 24, 2012

Wonder Mountain Wilderness

Overview 

Wonder Mountain Wilderness is 1 of the 5 areas that make up the Olympic National Forest. Wonder Mountain Wilderness is located in the southeast corner of the National Forest 

  
Wonder Mountain stands at 4,848 ft at the southern edge of the Wonder Mountain Wilderness with primarily rocky peaks.

North of the mountain there is heavy forest consisting of Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir, and Silver fir
  • Embedded in the forests are small lakes and streams
  • Alder, Willow, and Vine maple grow along the steams
 There are two named streams, McKay Creek and Five Stream located in  the Wonder Mountain Wilderness. These streams emerge from four small lakes.
  • These lakes are the only bodies of water and remain unnamed.
Wild life in the area mainly consist of:
  • 300+ species of birds
  • Black Bear
  • Cougar
  • Bob Cat
  • Roosevelt Elk
  • Blacktail Deer
 
  


Human History

Signs of humans have been found dating back to 12,000 years ago in the Olympic National Park regions
Not necessarily in the Wonder Mountain area, but there is still 8 different Native American Tribes that recognize a relationship with the these areas to this day

The First Euro-American exploration through this region that was well documented took place in 1885 by a Lieutenant and his troops.


 

Regulations

The following are prohibited:
  • Fires above 3,500 ft
  • Fires at Wonder ponds
  • Groups larger than 12 
  • More than 8 head of livestock
  • Any wheeled vehicle, motor boat, motorized equipment, hang glider, or bike.


Recreation!

There are no trails through the Wonder Mountain Wilderness. This provides a great chance to experience the solitude. The lack of trails also provides the opportunity  for backpacking, rock climbing, fishing, and primitive camping. 

Links for Further information -

Bibliography
National Park Service. 15 May 2012. Web. 20 May 2012.
FS.USDA.gov. United States Department of Agriculture. Web. 20 May 2012.