The road to Artist Point opened about 2 p.m. Thursday, the earliest opening on record by more than a month. The previous earliest opening was June 29.
“We usually start clearing the road in late May or early June, but with so little snow in the mountains, it made sense to open this popular location early,” said Tony Hernandez, WSDOT’s maintenance superintendent for the area. “This is definitely an unusual event. I don’t think a mid-spring opening will become an annual event.”
In the event of late season snowfall, WSDOT will close the section beyond the winter gate, re-evaluate the conditions and then reopen the road as soon as conditions allow. Drivers should check the Artist Point web page before traveling to the area.
Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so drivers who visit Artist Point between now and the end of June should be prepared for winter driving conditions. Visitors should carry tire chains, food, water, warm clothes and blankets in case of sudden weather changes.
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