ODOT crews will close the east side of McKenzie Pass (OR 242) on Thursday, November 6, marking the beginning of the annual full seasonal closure. The west side of the pass was closed earlier on October 14 as winter weather approaches.
A new change this year involves moving the east-side gate one mile closer to Sisters. This adjustment is intended to give drivers a safer area to turn around.
McKenzie Pass is a secondary scenic highway that has been closing each winter since 1962. ODOT does not maintain the route during winter due to concerns about weather, costs, and logistics. Instead, efforts focus on keeping main highways clear and safe for travel. During the closure period, vehicles are not allowed past the gates.
The closure applies only to vehicle traffic; public lands in the area remain open. Recreational users such as skiers and snowshoers may go beyond the closed gates but do so at their own risk. “The U.S. Forest Service has published guidelines for recreating in a National Forest,” according to ODOT officials. Visitors are encouraged to follow these guidelines and consider potential risks.
Winter conditions on McKenzie Pass can be dangerous because there are no services or cell coverage available, and weather changes quickly. After snow begins melting in spring, recreational visitors may encounter hazards like fallen trees, rockslides, or damaged pavement.
The seasonal closure became standard practice after McKenzie Pass was designated a scenic highway in 1962 with completion of another section of Oregon 126. The narrow roadway’s elevation—5,325 feet—made it difficult to keep open during winter even when it served as a main route between Willamette Valley and Central Oregon.
Travelers can check which mountain routes are currently open and view up-to-date road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511 for more information about road closures across Oregon.
More details about McKenzie Pass (OR 242) are available on ODOT’s website.
