How to Check for Oregon Road Closures

Road closures are common in Oregon, so be sure to check your route before hitting the road, especially during the winter.
Written by Jason Tushinski
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Updated on Mar 23, 2023
Maintenance, construction, and extreme weather events can cause frequent road closures and delays in Oregon. Some shutdowns are temporary, while others can last significantly longer due to extreme circumstances, such as wildfires. Be prepared to adjust your driving plans accordingly.
Wet, windy weather can wreak havoc on Oregon roads, let alone severe weather events such as flooding and wildfires. Since the Beaver State has it all, it shouldn't be surprising that road closures are a fact of life here, especially during the rainy winter season.
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How to check for road closures in Oregon

Road closures are hard to anticipate, and without enough of a heads-up, they can leave you in the lurch, facing significant delays.
However, Oregon drivers can stay in the loop by using
TripCheck
, a website run by Oregon’s Department of Transportation (ODOT) that monitors road conditions statewide. Here, you can get real-time information on closures and delays, as well as tips to ensure your drive is safe.
You can also dial 511 on your smartphone to hear the latest traffic information. Alternatively, call 800-977-ODOT (6368) if you’re in Oregon or 503-588-2941 if you’re out of state.

Oregon roads that close frequently

For the most part, road closures in Oregon are temporary—they’re often caused by accidents, construction, or weather. But you’ll also find road closures within Oregon’s state parks and forests. This could be due to seasonal hunting, logging, or maintenance and repairs. 
Here are some frequently closed roads in Oregon:

Tillamook State Forest

Located 40 miles west of
Portland
in the Northern Oregon Coast Range, you’ll find ample opportunities to camp, hike, bike, fish, and swim within the 364,000 protected acres of
Tillamook State Forest
. However, before you head this way, head to the
Department of Forestry’s website
to check for road closures that could interrupt your plans. 
Shutdowns are common due to weather damage, logging, or hunting season. These are some of the most commonly closed roads within Tillamook State Forest:
  • Buick Canyon Road—closed due to storm damage
  • Cedar Creek Road—closed due to slumping roadways
  • Cook Creek Road (at Hoevet Creek)—road is not passable
  • Smith Bypass Road—closed to due landslides
  • Murphy Grade Road—closed at the 0.5-mile mark
The following roads are closed from September 1 through November 30 each year for hunting:
  • Arch Support OHA
  • Gods Valley TMA
  • Big Bear OHA
  • Fall Creek Ridge OHA
  • Hole in Wall OHA
  • Joyce OHA
  • Lower Lost Creek OHA
  • Quarry North Murphy Road OHA
  • Wolf Creek OHA

Santiam State Forest

The Santiam State Forest is located 25 miles southeast of
Salem, Oregon,
and sits on the Cascade Mountains’ western edge. This state park covers more than 47,000 acres. It was heavily damaged by wildfires in 2020, and most roads within it remain closed. 
However, the Crooked Finger OHA Area is open.

Why you need the best (and cheapest) car insurance in Oregon

Driving in Oregon can get tricky, especially if you’re traveling along the coast through the rainy season or close to areas dealing with wildfires. Wherever you’re headed throughout the Beaver State, you’ll want to stay on top of road closures—particularly if you’re visiting a state forest. 
No matter where you’re traveling, protect yourself and your vehicle with a robust car insurance policy. The
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