DIABLO, Wash. — The North Cascades Highway has officially reopened for the summer season.

Crews have been clearing SR 20 of the winter and spring snows for weeks, and the gates were opened on Tuesday.

Unlike past openings, this year’s event was done without a lot of fanfare because of coronavirus restrictions.

Officials are still discouraging leisure travel and the North Cascades National Park remains closed, but the highway is a critical link in supporting freight movement, especially timber.

Even with the road now open, the DOT warns that facilities and access off the highway are limited and drivers should plan accordingly.