04/21/2026
Update on Road opening, Spring is early this year :)
https://www.facebook.com/100064360826677/posts/1490575286431151/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v
Here’s an update on seasonal road openings in Deschutes County.
The County is targeting a full opening of Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road in early May, depending on snow, ice and weather conditions.
The Road Department maintains more than 700 miles of paved roads with limited staff, equipment and daylight hours. Under the County’s Snow and Ice Plan, the goal is to open both roads prior to Memorial Day.
Crews began snow removal work on Paulina Lake Road last week and will move to Cascade Lakes Highway once that work is complete. While the process typically takes about six weeks, favorable conditions this year may allow for a significantly shorter timeline.
Roads will open once they are cleared and conditions are deemed safe, including when the risk of additional winter weather is no longer a concern. The County is also coordinating with the U.S. Forest Service and does not anticipate any extended closure requests at this time.
Cascade Lakes Highway is currently accessible from the south, with a temporary gate in place at Lava Lake.
Updates will be shared on Deschutes County social media channels and the Road Department website at www.deschutes.org/road.
*Photo does not represent current conditions.