Rockslide forces extended closure of South Lakeshore Road in Chelan

A substantial rockslide has resulted in the indefinite closure of State Route 971/South Lakeshore Road in Chelan, Washington, posing serious challenges for local transportation. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) confirmed that both lanes are completely blocked by debris after two separate slides in early March 2025. Safety concerns are heightened by the presence of large boulders precariously positioned above the roadway. WSDOT is actively exploring potential solutions, but the estimated costs for comprehensive repairs could reach millions of dollars, and funding for such a project is currently unavailable. As spring arrives, the risk of further rockslides increases, complicating the situation and raising worries for travelers in the Chelan Valley and Lake Chelan State Park.

Local traffic is being diverted to SR 971 Navarre Coulee Road, and WSDOT emphasizes the importance of adhering to closure points for safety. Officials are also considering temporary solutions like a single-lane passage, although risks from falling rocks remain a significant concern. The situation continues to evolve, with WSDOT committed to ensuring the safety of all travelers while addressing the challenges posed by this natural event.