Deschutes County Road Department plans to close Cascade Lakes Highway, Paulina Lake Road for the winter on Nov. 19

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes County Road Department announced this week that it plans to close the Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road for the winter season on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at about 8 a.m.

The high-elevation forest highways are closed annually in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to provide for winter recreation opportunities.

Deschutes County provides maintenance on these highways through an easement agreement with the Forest Service.

"It is not uncommon for roadside snow accumulation to exceed five to 10 feet at the road summit," the county announcement said. "Continual snow/ice maintenance of these road segments is cost-prohibitive."

The Road Department said it will aim to remove snow and open both Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road prior to Memorial Day each year.

Significant weather events may require closure prior to Nov. 19. Please check the Road Department website (www.deschutes.org/road) for updates in advance of opening and closing target dates.