Snowfall - last year it closed on the 28th, this year on the 7th. Earlier than usual. From the Dept. of Transportation:
Autumn snow and ice close SR 542 to Artist Point
Snow and icy conditions are forecasted on State Route 542/Mount Baker Highway and crews have closed the final 2.7 miles of the highway to vehicle traffic. The gate will remain closed until next year.
Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance crews remove snow and ice from SR 542 during the winter but this final stretch, known as the Road to Artist Point, is narrow with sharp curves and steep slopes. WSDOT closes it to vehicle traffic each winter season for the safety, while at the same time a portion of the road becomes part of Mt. Baker Ski Area’s terrain.
The earliest recorded closure was on September 27, 2007. It usually closes much later in October / November.
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