Travelers will have another option to cut down on time when driving through the North Cascades: the Washington State Department of Transportation announced State Route 20 is set to reopen at 10 a.m. Friday, April 19.
It’s the first time since 2019 that the 32-mile highway, known as North Cascades Highway, has opened in April. Over the past few years, it typically opened in early May, according to WSDOT.
Spring clearing of the highway between mile markers 134 and 171 started on March 25, according to WSDOT. The route closed for the winter on Nov. 30, 2023.
Travelers are advised that snow and ice are possible for the east-west route over the Cascade mountains, so it’s recommended they be prepared to drive in winter weather. There’s also potential for spring and early summer avalanches.
Additionally, pit stops are limited since many of the U.S. Forest Service and National Park facilities haven’t opened. Cell phone service is also spotty throughout the mountain passes.
Maintenance and ongoing preservation work on the route between mile markers 105 and 150 will continue throughout the spring and summer. Travelers are advised to be mindful in the work zones.
Can I bike the route before vehicles start traveling?
In the past when the route has been cleared a day or two ahead of opening day, the occasional cyclist has been able to ride the road before the gate opened, lending to the “urban myth” of bike day, according to WSDOT.
WSDOT advises that the route is essential to all travelers, including freight and residents, so when State Route 20 opens, it opens to all.
If there’s enough time, WSDOT will post on its social media pages that the road is clear but the gates are closed to give cyclists a heads up.
As of Thursday, April 18, no “bike day” post had been issued.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.
