State officials are working to fully reopen Highway 2 access to Stevens Pass by Sunday, following closures triggered by significant flooding in December. Governor Bob Ferguson announced Tuesday that all lanes between Skykomish and Stevens Pass are expected to open in both directions, though the highway will not operate around the clock and some restrictions will remain in place.
Impact on Communities and Tourism
The highway’s closure since December 10th, after mud, water, and debris damaged the roadway – with some sections completely washed out – has significantly impacted communities on both sides of the Cascade Mountains. Highway 2 serves as a vital winter corridor, providing access to the Stevens Pass Ski Resort and the town of Leavenworth, which relies heavily on tourism during the winter months.
A limited reopening began Monday, allowing skiers and snowboarders to access Stevens Pass from the east. A pilot car is currently escorting vehicles for the final seven miles to the summit, operating between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., dependent on weather conditions. This escorted access is expected to continue for approximately one month, after which the state hopes to open one lane in each direction.
Ongoing Repairs and Detours
Crews earlier this month cleared debris around Milepost 54, focusing on a bridge east of Skykomish particularly affected by the flooding. A section of Highway 2 between Index and Skykomish reopened on December 11th, one day after the initial closure. However, a separate section of Highway 2 remains closed at Tumwater Canyon, from east of Coles Corner (milepost 85) to Leavenworth (milepost 99). Repairs in this area began on December 23rd, and traffic is being diverted to the Chumstick Highway, a rural county road with lower speed limits and bridge restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Highway 2 expected to fully reopen between Skykomish and Stevens Pass?
Governor Ferguson announced Tuesday that all lanes between Skykomish and Stevens Pass are expected to open in both directions by Sunday, though the highway will not operate 24 hours a day and some restrictions will remain in place.
What is the status of Highway 2 between Coles Corner and Leavenworth?
Highway 2 is currently closed at Tumwater Canyon from east of Coles Corner (milepost 85) to Leavenworth (milepost 99). Repairs began on December 23rd, and traffic is being detoured via the Chumstick Highway.
How is access to Stevens Pass currently being managed?
A limited reopening began Monday, allowing skiers and snowboarders to access Stevens Pass from the east with the assistance of a pilot car escorting vehicles for the final seven miles to the summit, operating from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. weather permitting.
As recovery efforts continue, what impact do you anticipate these highway closures and reopenings will have on the surrounding communities and winter tourism season?
