WINTHROP, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The North Cascades Highway is shutting down for winter this Thursday, Dec. 4.

State Route 20 will close at 6 p.m. on Dec. 4 between Ross Dam trailhead at milepost 134 and Silver Star gate at milepost 171, covering Rainy Pass and Washington Pass.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) says heavy snow and avalanche risk make the closure necessary for safety.

Crews expect snow showers starting Friday, and with current snow loads in avalanche paths, WSDOT says it’s time to lock the gates.

The highway typically reopens in April or May.