The Oregon Department of Transportation says it will close the entire Old McKenzie Pass Highway, or Highway 242, effective Monday, Nov. 1. That’s as snow is expected in the Cascades.
The west side of the highway was closed earlier this month on October 21st. ODOT says its records show the earliest closure of Old McKenzie pass Highway was on Oct. 18th, 1996. The latest happened on Jan. 10, 1939.
McKenzie Highway closes annually from mid-November to mid-June. The earliest opening is the third Monday in June. That date may be later, depending on weather and road conditions. ODOT posts signs and closes gates when the road is closed.
When closed, the road is not maintained. Weather conditions, logistics and cost make it impractical to maintain for travel year around. ODOT opens the road when they can ensure it is clear for safe travel
More information on road conditions tripcheck.com.
Copyright 2021 KLCC.
