A vital section of U.S. Highway 2 (US-2) will partially reopen to traffic daily, offering a much-needed route for travelers. After a nearly three-week closure spanning almost 50 miles, the Washington State Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that a 27-mile stretch of the highway will be accessible during daytime hours. This reopening comes after significant storm damage impacted the roadway earlier this month.
Key Takeaways
- US-2 reopens between Scenic (milepost 58) and Coles Corner (milepost 85).
- Daily access is from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., beginning Monday, December 29.
- The full 49-mile closure will resume nightly from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Emergency repairs have allowed access to Stevens Pass Ski Resort from the east.
- Travelers should expect delays of an hour or more due to detours and work zones.
Highway Section Available for Daytime Travel
The partial reopening of US-2 will affect the section from Scenic (milepost 58) to Coles Corner (milepost 85). This 27-mile segment provides access to the Stevens Pass area, which has been cut off for many travelers. The road will be open for 12 hours each day, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., starting Monday, December 29. Outside of these hours, the full 49-mile closure between Skykomish (milepost 50) and Leavenworth (milepost 99) will remain in effect.
Background on the Closure
US-2 initially closed on December 10 between Index (milepost 35) and Skykomish. A powerful storm then moved through the region, causing extensive damage and blockages. This led to an extended closure from Index to Coles Corner the following day, effectively isolating communities and travel routes across the Cascades.
Severe Storm Impacts and Damage
The recent storm caused widespread destruction along US-2. East of Skykomish at milepost 54, severe flooding resulted in major highway damage. Washouts and landslides occurred over and near the summit of Stevens Pass, damaging the asphalt surface. Perhaps the most significant damage was in Tumwater Canyon, between Leavenworth and Coles Corner, where a large portion of the highway's eastbound lane became unstable and fell into the swollen Wenatchee River.
"We've been working tirelessly to clear debris and stabilize the roadway," a DOT official stated, highlighting the challenges faced by repair crews.
Damage Extent
- Milepost 54: Severe flooding damage.
- Stevens Pass Summit: Washouts and landslides.
- Tumwater Canyon: Eastbound lane collapsed into the Wenatchee River.
Emergency Repairs Make Progress
After a second storm system passed, preventing immediate work, DOT crews began emergency repairs on Thursday, December 18. Their efforts focused on clearing debris and stabilizing affected sections of the highway. This progress has been sufficient to allow vehicle access to the Stevens Pass Ski Resort for those approaching from the east side of the Cascade Mountains.
Despite the partial reopening, significant work remains. The highway will stay closed indefinitely for 14 miles on the west side of Stevens Pass, between Skykomish and Scenic. Another 14-mile segment on the east side, between Coles Corner and Leavenworth, also remains shut down.
Navigating the Detour and Delays
To access the reopened portion of US-2, a detour will be in place at the eastern edge of Leavenworth. Drivers will use the Chumstick Highway and State Route 207 to reach Coles Corner. From there, reduced speed limits will be enforced for 12 miles, up to milepost 72. A pilot car will then guide vehicles through an active work zone for the final eight miles to the resort area at milepost 64.
Travelers should prepare for delays. DOT officials warn that trips could take up to an hour or more, depending on weather and road conditions. Strict adherence to all posted speed limits and hazard signs is crucial, including on the Chumstick Highway, which is under Chelan County's jurisdiction.
Ongoing Work and Future Reopening Hopes
Crews started removing debris from a bridge just east of Skykomish on December 20. Officials are hopeful that this section of the highway, between Skykomish and Scenic, could reopen soon. An inspection of the bridge and further safety assessments are scheduled for Monday, December 29. This will determine the feasibility of opening more of the western segment.
Work continues across other damaged areas of US-2. Crews are collaborating with bridge inspectors, geotechnical engineers, and other specialists. Their goal is to evaluate damages comprehensively and develop detailed repair plans for the remaining closed sections. The long-term goal is to restore full access to this critical cross-state route.
- December 10: Initial highway closure.
- December 11: Closure extended due to storm damage.
- December 18: Emergency repairs begin.
- December 29: Partial reopening of US-2.
