Washington DOT Closes Routes 410 and 123 Ahead of Heavy Snow

With significant snowfall expected this weekend, officials from the Washington State Department of Transportation have closed access to State Routes 410 and 123, impacting Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass. The closures took effect on Thursday within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park as forecasters anticipate over 20 inches of heavy snow in the region.

THE WSDOT WILL LOOK AT THE AMOUNT OF SNOW THAT FELL ON MONDAY

As winter conditions loom, ski areas across the state, including White Pass Ski Area, have already begun to see snowfall, with more expected Friday and through the weekend.
DOT officials have indicated they will reassess the situation on Monday to determine if the gates can be reopened, depending on weather and safety assessments.

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THE AREAS USUALLY CLOSE MID MONTH

Historically, access to these mountain passes typically closes by mid-November due to heavy snow and the heightened risk of avalanches. Last year, the gates were closed on November 15, signaling the start of winter conditions in the region.

WE ARE READY FOR AN EARLY OPENING OF SKI AREAS

Despite the closures, there is a buzz of optimism among skiers and ski area officials regarding the early snow. Many are hoping this winter's first significant accumulation will continue, paving the way for an early opening of ski resorts, potentially as soon as Thanksgiving—something that has not occurred in recent years. The last time White Pass Ski Area opened during the Thanksgiving holiday was in 2017.

PRAY FOR THE SNOW TO STAY

While no formal announcements have been made regarding early openings, the anticipation is palpable among the skiing community, with hopes high for an extended and early ski season following today’s snow closures.