Passes into eastern Washington still clear? (Seattle, Spokane: moving, trailer, areas)

[VirtualErik]

Hi guys, I normally post in the Seattle thread, but this one is more with the entire state. So I am planning on moving out that way possibly mid October give or take a few weeks, and I've never made that drive before, though last year in October I made the drive from Oregon back here to GA and I didn't run into any issues, though I didn't really have to go over any mountains.

That being said I believe I will be going over some forest and mountain passes coming into Eastern Washington into Spokane as I make my way into Seattle. Has it started snowing up in the higher altitude areas yet? Is it still save to drive over in October?

I do have a 4x4 Blazer with good tread on the tires still. Also I will be towing a small uhaul trailer.

Thanks!

[Hemlock140]

No, not yet, the last storm snow level was still over 7,000 feet, so only on mountain peaks. Check though, it would be rare, but there could be some snow before then. Normally, no snow until after November 1st, when snow tires are allowed. The last time I remember snow issues on the roads in October was about 1995.

[teddyearp]

Weather is hard to predict; as the previous poster said, they should still be clear, but just in case:

WSDOT - Statewide Mountain Pass Map

[pnwguy2]

It it is very unusual for the main passes to get snowfall before late October. I would include I 90 and even US 2 in this category. However there are the odd years where snowfall can come early or can come late but it is just not normal. Even in the middle of winter I 90 is kept clear most of the time. Yes, storms can bring shutdowns and/or slowdowns but really are not a major concern most days. If you want to talk about other mountain passes then yes you will be experiencing more winter conditions especially over white Pass. The main thing is to monitor conditions and know what you are going to run into. Fortunately there are many ways to do this either via the Internet, phone apps, and even then old-fashioned telephone line. Plan ahead and you should have few problems.

[VirtualErik]

Originally Posted by pnwguy2

It it is very unusual for the main passes to get snowfall before late October. I would include I 90 and even US 2 in this category. However there are the odd years where snowfall can come early or can come late but it is just not normal. Even in the middle of winter I 90 is kept clear most of the time. Yes, storms can bring shutdowns and/or slowdowns but really are not a major concern most days. If you want to talk about other mountain passes then yes you will be experiencing more winter conditions especially over white Pass. The main thing is to monitor conditions and know what you are going to run into. Fortunately there are many ways to do this either via the Internet, phone apps, and even then old-fashioned telephone line. Plan ahead and you should have few problems.

That's good to know, Google maps when I put in the route, shows me going by I 90. So I should be fine unless like you said, something unusual happens.