Cross State Journey on North Cascades Highway is Winding Down for the Season

When may SR 20 shut?

data launched, WSDOT file photograph

When Cayuse and Chinook passes shut, the hypothesis begins for SR 20 North Cascades Highway. We’re not there but, however with winter climate settling in by way of the Cascades, the season is definitely winding down for NCH.

Why shut yearly?

State Route 20 by way of Rainy and Washington passes crosses dozens of avalanche paths, that means the seasonal closure of SR 20 North Cascades Highway is set partially by avalanche danger. Our upkeep crews plow this part of SR 20 till it’s not secure to work within the space as a result of avalanche situations.

At that time, we shut the gates for the season to make sure the security of the touring public and our crews. Early season closure factors are between Ross Dam trailhead at milepost 134 on the west facet and Silver Star gate at milepost 171 on the east facet.

Don’t guess and test for updates.

We are sometimes requested why we don’t set a selected date for the closure. The purpose is that each season is completely different and we need to stay open so long as doable annually. Closing dates have been as early as Oct. 17 and as late as Jan 3. Our crews work laborious to maintain the North Cross open as a result of this route supplies extra direct entry for freight and the communities on either side of the mountains.

As quickly because the staff determines the route should shut, we share that data by way of this listserv, Facebook, and the mountain pass page.

If you’re planning on making the journey over the “North Cross”, keep in mind that you’re touring by way of mountain passes with no cell service and with snow forecast for this weekend. You should be prepared for winter driving. Have applicable tires and drive for situations. Understand that you could be ready and nonetheless get caught ready due to a collision or spin out some other place on the mountain go, so have a full tank of gasoline and one thing heat to bundle up in if you need to wait. Our crews are plowing and treating the roads, however as we regularly see at the start of winter, some individuals aren’t ready and make the state of affairs much more difficult.

Keep journey lanes and driveways open

Last weekend, plow drivers reported that individuals have been parked on the facet of the street, into the driving lanes and in some locations, blocking entry for crews to get round. This not solely hinders plow drivers’ skill to clear the street, however it is usually a security hazard for visitors and first responders. Please be accountable and park solely the place allowed.

Stay tuned for extra updates…