History of Snoqualmie Pass in Timeline

Snoqualmie Pass is a mountain pass in Washington state, facilitating passage through the Cascade Range via Interstate 90. Located at 3,015 feet (919 m) on the Kittitas-King county line, it serves as a crucial transportation route across the mountains.

1909: Railroad Line Completed

In 1909, the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad completed a line through Snoqualmie Pass as part of its Pacific Extension.

1914: Snoqualmie Tunnel Constructed

In 1914, the 2¼-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel was constructed from Hyak due west to Rockdale.

1915: Sunset Highway Opened

In 1915, the Sunset Highway was opened through the pass, near the original rail line.

1927: Road becomes U.S. Route 10

In 1927, the road over Snoqualmie Pass became U.S. Route 10.

1931: Road Plowing Begins

In 1931, U.S. Route 10 began to be plowed and kept open during winter.

1933: First Ski Hill Cleared

In 1933, the first alpine ski hill was cleared at Snoqualmie Pass.

January 21, 1934: Seattle Ski Park Opens

On January 21, 1934, the Seattle Parks Department opened the Seattle Ski Park at Snoqualmie Pass, which was the first municipally owned ski facility in the United States.

1934: U.S. Route 10 Paved

In 1934, U.S. Route 10 was finally paved through Snoqualmie Pass.

1940: Seattle Ski Park Closes

In 1940, the city government closed the Seattle Ski Park at Snoqualmie Pass.

June 24, 1946: Spokane Indians Team Killed in Bus Accident

On June 24, 1946, seven players on the Spokane Indians minor league baseball team and their manager, were killed in a bus accident on the Snoqualmie Pass Highway.