Prepare for Smooth Thanksgiving Travel: WSDOT Tips for Commuters

WSDOT wants commuters to know that Thanksgiving travel can be manageable.

WSDOT spokesperson Lauren Loebsack states, “You can expect to see more people on the roads. Check our travel charts to plan your trip.”

Here are some travel tips to consider:

• If you plan to stop during your trip, review a list of safety rest areas. Avoid driving when tired.
• Anticipate peak traffic, especially on the Wednesday and Friday before Thanksgiving when many are traveling to dinner.
• If traveling through mountain passes like Steven and Blewett, ensure you have proper traction tires. Bring warm clothing and blankets in case of emergency. Check the mountain passes webpage for updates.
• Be prepared for unexpected events, such as accidents or fallen trees, which can cause delays.

Other important information:

• State Routes 410 and 123 are closed due to heavy snowfall and avalanche danger. The SR 20/North Cascades Highway is also closed for the season.
• Toll rates will apply on Thursday, Nov. 28, on the SR 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. I-405 express toll lanes will be free on Thanksgiving. Visit the Good To Go! visitors page for toll information.
• Expect long waits at state ferry terminals. Westbound travel is expected to be busy on Nov. 27-28 and eastbound travel on Nov. 29-30. To avoid vehicle lines, consider traveling as a walk-on passenger. More details are available on the Washington State Ferries website.

For Amtrak Cascade passengers, it’s recommended to buy tickets early and arrive at the station one hour before departure. Trains run from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Eugene, Oregon. More information can be found on the Amtrak Cascades website or by calling 800-USA-RAIL. Also, pilots can find info on state-sponsored airports here.

Prepare and travel safely this Thanksgiving!