Washington Transportation Alert: Stevens Pass Closed as US 2 Blocked by Rocks, Trees, and Mudslides From Scenic to Coles Corner
WASHINGTON — A major closure is underway in the Cascades as Stevens Pass has been shut down indefinitely, with US Highway 2 closed from milepost 57 at Scenic to milepost 85 at Coles Corner, west of Leavenworth. Transportation officials say multiple sections of the roadway are covered by rocks, fallen trees, and mud following ongoing storm impacts across the region.
The Washington State Department of Transportation confirmed that there is no detour available and no estimated time for reopening, leaving travelers urged to avoid the area entirely.
Debris Slides Trigger Full Closure of Stevens Pass
Heavy rain, melting snow, and unstable slopes have combined to create hazardous conditions along US 2. Crews responding to the area reported:
• Large rocks across travel lanes
• Downed trees blocking the shoulder and roadway
• Mud and debris flows covering sections of the highway
• Ongoing slide risk due to saturated ground
Because debris is appearing in multiple locations, crews cannot begin clearing safely until conditions stabilize.
WSDOT: No Detour Route Available
Unlike other mountain passes, US 2 offers no nearby alternate route for through-traffic. Drivers typically cannot rely on simple backroad diversions due to steep terrain and limited access points.
Officials warn motorists to plan for significant travel delays and to use entirely different east–west routes if necessary, such as:
• I-90 (Snoqualmie Pass)
• US 12 (White Pass)
Travelers should check pass conditions before departing, as weather-related closures are impacting other corridors as well.
Storm System Continues to Create Dangerous Travel Conditions
The closure follows several days of severe weather impacting western and central Washington, including:
• Heavy rain and atmospheric river moisture
• Major flooding along several river systems
• Widespread landslide and mudslide hazards
Transportation crews expect additional instability along mountain roadways as saturated soils continue to shift.
No Reopening Estimate Yet; Updates Expected Throughout the Day
WSDOT says that because debris slides are ongoing, reopening Stevens Pass will not be possible until crews can safely assess and clear all blocked areas. A timeline will be released once risks decrease.
Motorists relying on US 2 for work, recreation, or cross-state travel should monitor official WSDOT alerts and avoid the closure zone entirely until further notice.
For developing updates on major Washington travel and weather disruptions, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
