US 26 eastbound snow congestion creates headaches for Mt. Hood travelers

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — U.S. 26 eastbound is congested with traffic due to snow on the roads, seven miles east of Welches.

This comes after a brief closure near milepost 48-53, with a line of cars backed up on U.S. 26 on Saturday afternoon.

The Oregon Department of Transportation said that there may be delays of up to two hours due to the slow traffic.

The situation means a big travel headache for people who want to head up to Mount Hood this weekend, since the closure is near Government Camp.

Mount Hood ski resorts picked up between 6 and 8 inches of snow in a little more than 6 hours Saturday, leading to reduced visibility and several spinouts near Government Camp.

ODOT says all eastbound lanes, including the median and shoulder, are affected on that section of U.S. 26.

As the Cascades receives more and more snow on Saturday, travel is becoming difficult near Mt. Hood. February 21, 2026 (KOIN).
Travel to Government Camp on Mt. Hood may be a headache as snow has cause road congestion. February 21, 2026 (KOIN).
U.S. 26 eastbound is congested seven miles east of Welches, due to snow on February 21, 2026 (ODOT).

A winter weather advisory remains in effect until 10:00 p.m. Saturday evening for the Cascades of northern Oregon, including Mount Hood. Roads, bridges and overpasses are slick and hazardous. Always remember to have an emergency driving kit readily available with items such as a flashlight, batteries, blankets, drinking water, shovels, non-perishable foods, and tire chains.

ODOT’s TripCheck site has the latest information on current delays and finding alternative routes. ODOT also has information about traction tire requirements.

The KOIN 6 News weather team will continue to monitor the situation and bring the latest updates.