WSDOT crews are plowing through snow drifts up to 20 feet deep on the final 2.7 miles of SR 542 to Artist Point. (Photos: WSDOT)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Washington State Department of Transportation crews continue making progress on reopening the final stretch of the Mount Baker Highway to Artist Point.
In an update Wednesday afternoon, WSDOT said maintenance crews are plowing through snow drifts reaching up to 20 feet deep. Meanwhile, weather has warmed as crews work to clear the final 2.7 miles of State Route 542 beyond the Mount Baker Ski Area.
Once crews finish removing snow from the roadway, they will begin additional work required before reopening the route. That includes clearing debris, installing signs and striping the roadway.
WSDOT has not announced an estimated reopening date. However, officials said work continues to move forward.
One of Washington’s Most Challenging Seasonal Projects
The annual effort to reopen Artist Point is one of Washington’s most challenging seasonal road projects. Heavy snowfall at the end of the Mount Baker Highway often buries the roadway under towering drifts that can persist well into summer.
Artist Point sits at an elevation of about 5,100 feet and offers some of the most popular alpine views in the North Cascades. The area provides access to hiking trails, photography opportunities and panoramic views of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan.
Each year, thousands of visitors travel the scenic highway once crews reopen the road for the summer season.
PNW Daily will continue to monitor progress and provide updates as WSDOT moves closer to reopening the route.
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