The Historic Columbia River Highway, also known as U.S. 30, will be closed to daytime traffic between Larch Mountain Road and Vista House starting Monday, February 23. The closure is expected to last up to three weeks as crews remove hazardous trees and loose rock from the area.
Work will take place on weekdays from approximately 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the highway reopening at night and on weekends. This section of the highway was affected by landslides caused by rainstorms in December, but temporary repairs allowed it to reopen until now.
The removal of hazardous trees is estimated to take about one week, followed by two weeks of rock scaling. During the closure period, some local destinations will remain accessible. According to officials, “the Portland Women’s Forum will remain accessible from the west side, and Vista House will be accessible from the east.” The highway itself will continue to open during nights and weekends.
Travelers passing through the gorge are advised to use Interstate 84 as a detour route. Exit 22 at Corbett Hill Road and Exit 28 at Bridal Veil will stay open for those needing access along the Historic Highway. To reach Vista House, drivers should take eastbound I-84 Exit 28 to Bridal Veil and travel west on the historic highway; visitors heading to Portland Women’s Forum should use I-84 Exit 22 to Corbett Hill Road.
Officials remind travelers that road work schedules may change due to weather conditions. For current updates on road closures or changes in schedule, drivers are encouraged to check Tripcheck.com before traveling (https://tripcheck.com).
The combined hazardous tree removal and rock scaling are expected to take about three weeks.
