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The Fourth of July weekend is a peak travel period in Washington State, and Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 is expected to see significant traffic delays. As the primary route across the Cascade Mountains, this corridor connects Seattle to central and eastern Washington—and holiday travel often leads to major congestion.

Increased Traffic, Lingering Construction Zones

Although the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has paused all active construction from July 3–6 to accommodate the holiday rush, existing work zones and lane reductions remain in effect. Projects like deck replacement, bridge repairs, and rock slope stabilization near Easton have temporarily halted, but narrowed shoulders, lane shifts, and restricted passing zones continue to impact drivers.

Travelers should be especially cautious and plan for slowdowns near these affected areas. Even without workers present, the residual impacts of construction can significantly hinder traffic flow.

Peak Delay Windows

According to WSDOT’s travel forecasts, the worst delays typically occur:

  • Eastbound I-90: Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening (July 3–4) as travelers head toward central and eastern Washington.
  • Westbound I-90: Sunday and Monday (July 6–7), as people return to the Seattle area.

Traffic is expected to be heaviest between 10 AM and 5 PM each day. Drivers are encouraged to travel early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid congestion.

No Active Closures, But Travel Will Still Be Slow

WSDOT will not conduct any rock blasting or lane closures during the holiday period. However, travelers should expect continued narrow lanes and decreased speeds through work zones, even when construction crews are not active. Traffic accidents or vehicle breakdowns can further complicate travel by creating unexpected backups.

To receive real-time alerts, travelers can text “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.

Tips for Navigating Snoqualmie Pass During the Holiday

  • Avoid Peak Hours: Travel early in the morning or later in the evening to steer clear of midday congestion.
  • Monitor Road Conditions: Use WSDOT’s live traffic cameras and travel alerts at wsdot.com.
  • Prepare for Delays: Carry snacks, water, and emergency supplies in case you are stuck in traffic.
  • Drive Cautiously: Even with construction paused, work zones remain active areas of concern. Watch for signage, uneven pavement, and sudden slowdowns.

Is There an Alternative Route?

While alternate passes such as Stevens Pass (US-2) exist, they may not be practical for most drivers due to added distance and limited capacity. Snoqualmie Pass remains the most efficient route for travelers heading to and from Eastern Washington—but only with proper planning and patience.

Call to Action

If you have questions about road safety laws, traffic infractions, or how construction zone violations are enforced in Washington, contact Blanford Law today at ken@blanfordlaw.com or 253-720-9304 for experienced legal guidance.

Additional Resources