When the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) announced the extended closure of Wyoming State Highway 22/Teton Pass due to significant geological events, including a landslide at milepost 12.8 and a mudslide at milepost 15. It appeared that a solution would be hard to find. But as WYDOT crews and geologists assess the area’s stability and safety hazards, a temporary solution is in their sights.
WYDOT, in conjunction with various agencies, is developing both short-term and long-term solutions to the disruption and engineers are preparing to construct a temporary detour using local materials to pave two lanes around the slide at milepost 12.8. This detour is expected to open in the coming weeks with restrictions on vehicle weight and width.
Governor Mark Gordon has praised the swift action and coordination among state and federal agencies aimed at restoring access. Meanwhile, plans for a permanent reconstruction of the affected road sections are underway, with no fixed timeline for completion. Current efforts include aerial surveys and geological drilling.
Further mitigation measures include installing a box culvert at milepoint 15 to improve drainage and manage ongoing mudslide risks. This work will be carried out in parallel with the temporary detour construction.
Despite the road closure, WYDOT and the US Forest Service are ensuring that access to nearby recreational areas remains available. Signage is being placed to direct visitors to campsites outside the affected zones, and both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and the Town of Jackson continue to welcome tourists.
Governor Gordon has also issued an Executive Order declaring an emergency, enabling Wyoming to access additional federal resources for these substantial repairs. WYDOT acknowledges the collaboration and support from the Idaho Transportation Department, the US Forest Service, and other partners during this critical period.
START Bus commuter transit buses to and from Teton Valley have been rerouted through Star Valley.
