SKAGIT COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A distant portion of the North Cascades Highway has reopened after undergoing emergency repairs.

WSDOT announced on Friday, Jan. 2 that the highway is back open between Silver Star gate and Early Winters gate, or mileposts 171 and 178, west of Winthrop.

It came roughly two weeks after the road closed due to mud and debris slides.

The road is commonly used for recreation and WSDOT is reminding travelers to follow the usual backcountry measures for preparation and safety.

Crews are still working to reopen the six-mile stretch of the highway between Early Winters and Goat Creek Road.