NORTH CASCADES, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – It’s official. The road to Artist Point is now closed.

WSDOT says the final 2.7 miles of the Mount Baker Highway (SR 542) from Heather Meadows up to Artist Point closed for the winter on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at 8 a.m.

The road will remain open up to that point throughout the winter season for recreationalists, but drivers should monitor road conditions.

Meanwhile, the Mount Baker Ski Area says NOAA is forecasting colder, wetter weather for the North Cascades this winter.

Applications are open now for jobs at the ski area and Midweek Passes for skiers and snowboarders are on sale until Friday, Oct. 25.