North Cascades Highway on track for April reopening

The North Cascades Highway, officially known as State Route 20, is poised for reopening this month as crews make significant progress in clearing the roadway of snow and ice. This highway typically remains closed during the winter months, from November to April, due to heavy snowfall, and is currently shut down at the Ross Dam trailhead and the Silver Star gate. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has indicated that cyclists might have a window to ride through the passes this weekend, although they must be cautious of rough road conditions, including compact snow and ice. Furthermore, WSDOT has highlighted that there is no cell service available along the route, and the area is classified as a work zone from Monday to Thursday. For the safety of both cyclists and crews, WSDOT has strongly advised against entering the work zones while clearing operations are in progress.

Although no formal reopening date has been set, WSDOT estimates that one to two additional weeks of repairs are necessary before the highway can safely reopen. The reopening of this scenic route is highly anticipated, given its popularity among cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. This development underscores the importance of road safety and the need for proper maintenance during the challenging winter months.