Cascade Lakes Highway Opens Early After Low-Snow Winter
Deschutes County says crews finished seasonal clearing faster than usual because of warm winter conditions and limited snowfall.
BEND, Ore. – Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road are now open for the season after Deschutes County crews completed snow-clearing work earlier than many years.
The Deschutes County Road Department opened both roads Thursday morning.
According to Deschutes County, snow removal on Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road can take up to six weeks in a typical year. This year, county officials said crews were able to finish the work more quickly because of a warm winter and limited snowfall.
The early opening highlights lower snowpack conditions in the Central Oregon Cascades west of Bend, where the popular seasonal routes provide access to lakes, trailheads, campgrounds and recreation areas.
Drivers heading into the area should still be prepared for changing mountain conditions, especially at higher elevations where snow, ice or debris may remain near roadsides and recreation sites.
Cover image: Cascade Lakes Highway is open for the season after Deschutes County crews completed snow-clearing work. County officials said this year’s warm winter and limited snowfall allowed crews to finish the work faster than usual. Photo courtesy of Deschutes County.
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