Old McKenzie Pass closed

With approximately 6 inches of snow already accumulated on the west side of the McKenzie Pass Highway, and more snow expected through the week, the Oregon Dept. of Transportation has closed OR 242, west of the summit, for the season.

The highway was closed to through traffic at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 10th, from the junction with 126 to milepost 76.7, three-quarters of a mile west of the Dee Wright Observatory. Access to the observatory will still be available from Sisters until additional snow accumulates on the eastern roadway.

In other higher elevation areas Oregon’s Sno-Park program helps provide snow removal at about 100 winter recreation parking areas (Sno-Parks) across the state. Sno-Parks are in most of Oregon’s mountain passes and in most ski, snowmobile, and snow play areas. A list of areas designated as a Sno-Park is available at http://www.trickcheck.com under “Travel Center.”

Motorists who park in a Sno-Park from November 1st through April 30th need a valid Sno-Park permit displayed in their vehicle near the lower left corner of the windshield. Parking in a Sno-Park without a permit may result in a fine.

ODOT offers three types of permits: a $25 seasonal permit; a $9 three-day permit good for three consecutive days; and a $4 daily permit.

Permits are sold at all DMV offices and by permit vendors at winter resorts, sporting goods stores and other retail outlets. Permit vendors may charge an additional service fee. A list of permit vendors is available at www.tripcheck.com under “Travel Center.”

Image above courtesy ODOT.

McKenzie River Reflections