John Hines - Outer Loop of Five Mile Drive Closing to Vehicles Permanently for Safety

Good afternoon,

I wanted to share the recent news from Metro Parks that beginning Friday, May 20, the Outer Loop of the Five Mile Drive will permanently close to vehicles due to ongoing erosion and slope instability. The closure spans the 2.25-mile distance between the entry/exit to Owen Beach and Fort Nisqually Living History Museum.  Bicycles, pedestrians, and other non-motorized traffic will still be permitted to use the road, which winds around the tip of Point Defiance, and walking trails and restrooms will stay open.

Like many of you, I have fond memories of driving around the Five Mile Drive, taking in the scenic views, and escaping into our small slice of wilderness here in Tacoma. It is a shared experience that connects generations of families and neighbors in our community. I would encourage you to check out the Metro Parks website at the link here for more information. I look forward, along with many of you, to how Metro Parks will continue to find ways to make sure future generations get to enjoy such a special place in our city. If you have any further questions, reach out to Metro Parks Tacoma at info@tacomaparks.com.

Thank you,

John Hines