For over 20 years, McKenzie Pass Highway 242 has been a cherished winter recreation area for snowmobilers, skiers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This iconic roadway provides breathtaking access to Oregon’s natural beauty and offers safe, car-free recreation for countless individuals and families. Yet, recent decisions by ODOT have effectively closed Highway 242 to all forms of winter recreation, keeping the gates locked and restricting public access during the off-season.

This decision affects us all:

• Local Traditions: Generations of Oregon families have enjoyed McKenzie Pass during the winter months. The pass has become a central part of our recreational culture, providing a safe, groomed, and accessible route through one of Oregon’s most scenic landscapes.
• Economic Impact: Local businesses in Sisters, Oregon, rely on winter tourism generated by snowmobilers, skiers, and outdoor lovers. Closing McKenzie Pass could hurt these businesses and negatively impact the local economy.
• Community Safety: The Mt. Jefferson Snowmobile Club has groomed McKenzie Pass for over two decades, ensuring safe routes for winter recreationalists. The club’s grooming efforts mitigate avalanche risks and maintain clear trails, providing a safer environment for all visitors. Closing the pass without any grooming efforts will increase potential dangers, especially as people will likely still attempt to use these routes.

We are asking ODOT, USFS, and other key stakeholders to reconsider this closure. Instead of blocking winter access completely, let’s work together to create a solution that allows safe and responsible recreation while maintaining public safety and supporting local economies.

We believe in the importance of:

• Safe, Managed Winter Access: Allowing the Mt. Jefferson Snowmobile Club to continue grooming efforts will ensure that those who recreate on Highway 242 can do so safely.
• Public Engagement: Decisions like these should include input from the community that loves and uses this land. We urge ODOT and USFS to engage with our community in an open dialogue to find the best way forward.
• Economic and Recreational Benefits: Keeping McKenzie Pass open benefits not only recreationalists but also local businesses that depend on winter tourism.

We urge you to sign this petition to show your support for keeping McKenzie Pass Highway 242 open for winter recreation. Your signature will help us demonstrate the widespread community support for maintaining safe, managed winter access to this beloved area.

Together, we can keep McKenzie Pass open, safe, and accessible for all!

Sign this petition to make your voice heard!