Storm forecast prompts weekend closure of North Cascades Highway
A storm forecast for the North Cascades is prompting an indefinite closure this weekend of Highway 20 east of Newhalem on Thursday — a step that could become the annual seasonal shutdown of the northernmost pass between eastern and western Washington.
It’s the closest road over the Cascades Mountains for residents of Bellingham and Whatcom County.
Washington State Department of Transportation spokesperson Lauren Loebsack told The Bellingham Herald that snow is accumulating in the avalanche chutes of the Liberty Bell range near Washington Pass.
Avalanches in that area are hazardous to drivers on Highway 20, also called SR 20 or the North Cascades Highway, making it difficult to keep the road clear of snow between Newhalem and Winthrop.
“The team has noted that the Liberty Bell avalanche paths are filling up and with winter weather forecast throughout the region, a pre-emptive closure is planned with reassessment on Monday for a reopening. Forecasts look good for reopening next week that could last another week or more after this weekend’s storm- but as always, what sort of conditions really show up will be what determines a reopening,” Loebsack said in an email.
WSDOT will close Highway 20 between Ross Lake Dam and Silver Stay (milepost 134-171) at 5 p.m. Thursday.
“Forecasts look good for reopening next week that could last another week or more after this weekend’s storm,” Loebsack said.
A mix of rain and snow is forecast through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Snow levels of around 3,400 feet were expected early Friday morning and the chances of accumulating snow favor the North Cascades.
This story was originally published November 12, 2025 at 12:37 PM.
