Mountain Loop Highway to partially reopen Friday

VERLOT — Hikers and campers can rejoice as Snohomish County and the U.S. Forest Service will partially open Mountain Loop Highway on Friday.

A 7-mile section of paved road will be open between the Deer Creek gate and the Barlow Pass gate. An unpaved, 12-mile section between Barlow Pass and Bedal Campground will remain closed until the Forest Service deems it passable.

“Normally, Mountain Loop Highway remains closed through Memorial Day, so we are pleased to provide early access to this very popular outdoor destination ahead of schedule,” said Kelly Snyder, Snohomish County Public Works director, in a press release. “We ask that visitors respect the remaining closure while enjoying the many recreational opportunities accessible along the west side of the highway.”

The road was originally pioneered in 1891 by miners and loggers. It was designated a scenic byway in 1991 and now runs for 55 miles. An estimated 200 cars per day use the road between Granite Falls and Darrington to access the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in the summer, the release said.

https://www.heraldnet.com/news/mountain-loop-highway-to-partially-reopen-friday/