Crews work around the clock to repair Highway 2 damage near Skykomish, Washington. Source: WSDOT.
SKYKOMISH, Wash. — After weeks of closures and changing timelines causing major turmoil for Stevens Pass Resort pass holders from the westside, U.S. Highway 2 near Skykomish is expected to reopen in both directions between Skykomish and Stevens Pass Resort by Sunday, according to state transportation officials.
However, drivers should be aware this reopening comes with significant limitations, nightly closures, and ongoing pilot-car operations farther east. U.S. Highway 2 near Skykomish remains an active work zone and is not yet a reliable through-route across the Cascades.
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Below is a west-to-east breakdown of what is open and what is not.
Skykomish to Stevens Pass Resort (MP 50–64)
OPEN in both directions, 24/7 starting Sunday, Jan. 4
Due to limited access east of the summit, U.S. 2 at Stevens Pass (MP 64) will close nightly at 6 p.m.
Overnight travel across the pass is not available
Stevens Pass Resort to Mill Creek Road (MP 64–71)
OPEN daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Daylight pilot-car operations only
Alternating one-way traffic guided by a pilot car
Active work zone: drivers must not pass the pilot car or vehicles following it
Mill Creek Road to Coles Corner (MP 71–85)
OPEN in both directions
Daytime access only: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Coles Corner to Leavenworth (MP 85–99)
REMAINS CLOSED in both directions
Closure is located in Tumwater Canyon
Repairs began Dec. 23 and are expected to continue through mid-March
Detour: Chumstick Highway to Beaver Valley Road
Why This Section Is Reopening Now
Except for the Christmas Day holiday, construction crews have worked around the clock removing debris and completing roadway and streambed repairs. Recent inspections determined that roads and bridges between Skykomish and Stevens Pass can safely handle limited traffic, allowing this partial reopening.
What Drivers Should Expect
Delays are likely
Nightly closures remain in place
Pilot-car restrictions limit capacity
U.S. 2 is not yet suitable for regular through-travel
Transportation officials continue to recommend I-90 or U.S. 12 as alternate routes when possible.
This story affects travel access to Stevens Pass Resort, Skykomish, and Leavenworth, particularly for winter recreation, freight, and regional commuters.
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