Teton Pass, Snake River Canyon closed due to slides

February 9, 2017

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has closed Teton Pass and Snake River Canyon in the Jackson area because of multiple avalanches.

The slides are the result of unprecedented levels of snow accumulation and drastic temperature swings.

US 189-191 south of Jackson and southeast of Hoback Junction remains open into Jackson but has the potential to close at any moment if the threat of avalanches increases.

Teton Pass (WYO 22), between the Idaho state line and Jackson, will likely remain closed through Saturday. Snake River Canyon (US 26-89), west of Hoback Junction, will remain closed Thursday into Friday.

The opening of Teton Pass and Snake River Canyon will depend on whether conditions improve enough for crews to safely work in those areas. Due to the snow accumulation, precipitation and other conditions, the threat of additional avalanches is high.

WYDOT will open the highways as soon as it is safe for the traveling public.

Crews continue to monitor avalanche activity and are working throughout the area to remove snow.

Hoback Canyon closed earlier Thursday so crews could perform controlled avalanche work. After performing that work, Hoback Canyon reopened but crews had to go back in later to remove additional snow that slid on to the road.

WYDOT crews are working to ensure Hoback Canyon remains open and additional personnel and equipment are en route to assist in clearing the highways.

Motorists can check the latest road conditions by visiting WYDOT’s 511 Travel Information Map.

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