After the snow is all cleared, road repairs and maintenance will commence

information released

Happy Thursday, fellow North Cascades enthusiasts,

Drum roll please!

You’re receiving this newsletter a little early on the recommendation of a fellow North Cascades enthusiast, Lee, who asked if I might send these updates out on Thursdays so people can plan their weekends. It’s a good idea and I am happy to share that this change comes at the right time, as our eastside and westside crews met each other this week at milepost 159.3, just east of the Bridge Creek trailhead on Washington Pass. That means the road is mostly cleared of snow all the way through from Ross Dam trailhead to Silver Star gate (milepost 134-171). For those enthusiasts hoping for a chance to ride through the passes prior to the route officially opening, this weekend is your opportunity.

Mostly clear…

Clearing the snow is just the start of what it takes to reopen SR 20 North Cascades Highway after a long winter closure. Once the snow is cleared from the lanes, crews work to open up shoulders and pull outs and start making repairs. The road remains officially closed until repairs can be made for a reason: the road surface is rough, with compact snow and ice still in some places. Drainages have not been cleared yet, so if there’s rain, there may be mud, dirt/snow slides, or run off on the roadway. Additionally, there has been fresh snow on the pass this week and Nature makes the call about conditions in the mountains. If you do plan to adventure into the back country this weekend, check in with the Northwest Avalanche Center and remember there is no cell service in the mountains. Be prepared.

It’s a work zone during the week

This is an emphasis reminder that the road behind the closure points (milepost 134-171) remains a work zone Monday-Thursday. No matter if you couldn’t make a bike ride this weekend or think you can guess where the crew is working, for the safety of everyone and for the efficiency of the clearing operation, please do not enter the work zone when crews are scheduled to work. Last year there were a couple of instances of people disregarding the signage and biking into the closure area that delayed work while the crew had to wait for them to exit the area. It’s not something the crew needs to worry about, and it’s not a risk you should take.

When’s NCH opening?

Obviously with the road cleared of snow, we’re nearing the reopening 2025 date. At first blush, the crew estimates another week or two of repairs, but it’s looking like the potential for an April opening. Last year’s reopening was April 19, but the four years prior to that were all May reopening dates. What’s your guess? We’ll be sure to send an update when that date is confirmed and in the meantime there’s new pics and video up in this year’s Flickr album.

Take care and safe travels,
Lauren Loebsack, communications, 509-667-2815