Cayuse Pass connects to Chinook Pass and White Pass on the east side of Mount Rainier National Park. The Cayuse Pass summit is at the junction of State Routes 123 and 410. The 4,675-foot-high pass is about five miles west of the Chinook Pass summit.
Pass status as of Wednesday, April 3 2013 |
SR 123 Cayuse Pass remains closed, but the clearing process is underway:
WSDOT crews are making their way down SR 123 and are currently in Lewis County dealing with about four feet of snow. Crews have run into a number of large trees (three feet or larger in diameter) that fell across the roadway. The downed trees will slow their progress somewhat. Crews continue to plow the roadway and still hope to have the scenic route clear by WSDOT’s annual goal of the Friday of Memorial Day Weekend. Ultimately it is up to the staff at Mount Rainier National Park to give the go ahead for the opening as they need to be fully staffed to monitor the pass.
Watch a dashboard-view video from a WSDOT plow truck working on Cayuse and Chinook passes prior to the highway closure. |
Why does WSDOT close Cayuse Pass for the winter?
WSDOT closes the pass due to high avalanche risk. Cayuse Pass has numerous slide areas that pose significant danger to travelers, WSDOT maintenance crews and park staff.
What are the usual opening and closing dates?
In an average year, Cayuse Pass closes in November and reopens in April. The pass did not close over the 1976-77 winter. View a table of closing and opening dates since the 1973-74 winter.
What are the closure points?
Crews close the gates in the north on SR 410 just south of Crystal Mountain Boulevard and in the south on SR 123 at the Mount Rainier National Park entrance. The closure affects eight miles of SR 410 and nearly 14 miles of SR 123.
Wasn't there once a ski area at Cayuse Pass?
Yes, the ski area operated from 1946 to 1959.
How can I get information on other mountain passes?
Mountain pass info is available on WSDOT's Web site or by calling the 5-1-1 travel information system.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Harmony Haveman
WSDOT Communications
P.O. Box 330310
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206.440.4475
E-mail: Harmony.Haveman@wsdot.wa.gov