North Cascades: Cascade River Road Closes to Vehicles Starting October 13

If you're planning a trip to North Cascades, note this change before you lock in your itinerary. Starting October 13, Cascade River Road is closed to vehicles at milepost 20, near Eldorado. The reason is road maintenance. The work ties up the roadway, so no vehicle can get past the gate set up there.

In practical terms, the closure falls two miles before the trailhead. You won't be able to drive all the way to the end of the road the way you can in peak season. You'll need to park before the gate and finish the trip some other way. The good news is that foot and bike traffic are still allowed past the gate, which keeps access open for hikers and cyclists willing to cover those last couple of miles under their own power.

One very practical thing to keep in mind on site. Do not block the gate with a vehicle. The crews need to be able to open it and drive through at any time for the work. Pick a parking spot that leaves the access completely clear, even for a stop you expect to be quick.

For you, this shift mostly changes the logistics of the day. Plan for the extra distance on foot or by bike, bring water, and pack gear suited to the mid-fall chill at elevation. Daylight runs short this time of year, so start early if you're aiming for the Eldorado area and the trails beyond it.

If the area is new to you, take the time to read the North Cascades park guide before you head out. It helps you work out your distances and choose routes that still make sense despite this closure. As long as the work lasts, treat this stretch of road as closed to vehicles until further notice, and lean on the foot and bike access to keep your plans on track.