Winter on the Loop means warm fires, snowy treks, foggy waterfront views and lots of fun! Whether your bliss is found riding through the snow on a fat bike in the Methow, or catching a sleigh ride in Plain, winter is a blast! 

The North Cascades Highway closes in winter due to excessive snow, so note that when you plan to travel the Loop at this time of year, you need to plan to backtrack (which we actually love because it allows us to hit our favorite spots twice)!

In the winter it is especially important to keep an eye on the weather. Be sure to check the web cams and driving conditions of Stevens Pass: Web Cams and Pass Conditions – Stevens Pass

It’s always a good idea to check your emergency supplies and car conditions before you leave home. We have created a checklist for you to make sure you are ready for the trip: Prepare for Winter Travel – Be Road Trip Ready!

Each spring we anxiously await the opening of the North Cascades Highway to allow access across the northern loop between the Methow Valley and the Skagit Valley. This link shows the history of opening and closing dates of the North Cascades Highway: Opening/Closing History

Winter recreation on SR 20

Hikers, skiers, snowmobilers and other recreationists can access the closed portion of the highway during the winter season. Users should park in designated parking areas to allow plow drivers the space they need to clear snow around the closed stretch’s access gates. Even thought the Loop is not passable over SR 20 travelers should still be prepared for winter driving conditions. Since WSDOT closes this stretch of the highway due to avalanche risk, anyone using this area should check forecasts and be aware of quickly changing conditions in the mountains. Travelers can also check conditions with North Cascades National Park before traveling to this area.

Why the highway is closed in winter:

[WSDOT says] We close the North Cascades Highway when weather, snow conditions and avalanche danger threaten the safety of drivers and our maintenance crews. Avalanches typically close the highway between late November and mid-December. Unlike US 2 Stevens Pass and I-90 Snoqualmie Pass, the North Cascades does not have facilities to perform avalanche control work to alleviate the condition. For the safety of the traveling public and winter maintenance crews, the pass must be closed.