The Oregon Department of Transportation announced on March 13 that the Historic Columbia River Highway will remain closed between Larch Mountain Road and Vista House following a landslide that occurred just east of Larch Mountain Road on March 11.
The closure affects travel along a popular scenic route, with officials citing ongoing instability in the slide area due to saturated soil. The department said it cannot estimate when the highway will reopen until crews are able to safely inspect the hillside, assess damage, clear debris, and begin repairs to both the roadway and a concrete guardrail.
“The slide area is still active because of the amount of water in the soil. With less rain forecast next week, we will be able to inspect the hillside, assess the damage, clear the debris and start repair work on the roadway and concrete guardrail. We will not have an estimate for when the highway can reopen until the hillside can be properly inspected as conditions improve,” officials said in a statement.
During this closure, access to local destinations remains possible via alternate routes. The Portland Women’s Forum is accessible from the west side, while Vista House can be reached from the east. Interstate 84 serves as a detour for travelers through the Columbia River Gorge. Exit 22 at Corbett Hill Road and Exit 28 at Bridal Veil remain open for those seeking access to points along the Historic Highway. To reach Vista House, drivers should use eastbound I-84 Exit 28 to Bridal Veil and travel west on the historic highway; visitors heading to Portland Women’s Forum should take I-84 Exit 22 to Corbett Hill Road.
Officials advise all travelers in Oregon—especially during severe weather—to check Tripcheck.com for up-to-date road conditions before setting out.
