Frustration mounts as chainless semi stalls Highway 35 in snow storm on Saturday, trapping vehicles near Government Camp

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 21, 2026 — A stalled semi-truck without chains triggered a multivehicle traffic hazard involving dozens of vehicles Saturday afternoon on Highway 35 near Government Camp, as heavy snowfall created dangerous conditions on Mount Hood during peak weekend travel.

Oregon State Police Trooper Kurtis Patterson responded at about 12:33 p.m. to milepost 59 after a fully loaded commercial motor vehicle lost traction and stalled, blocking both lanes of the highway, according to the OSP log. The incident quickly caused a buildup of vehicles, likely including skiers and other weekend travelers, who were unable to pass.

Initial reports estimated about 20 vehicles were affected, but responders found nearly twice that number upon arrival. Several vehicles sustained minor damage. No injuries were reported, and drivers exchanged information at the scene before leaving.

Heavy snow fell throughout the day Saturday, with Mount Hood ski resorts reporting between 6 and 8 inches of new snow in about six hours. The snowfall intensified around midafternoon, contributing to hazardous driving conditions across the mountain. The Oregon Department of Transportation also closed U.S. Highway 26 eastbound near Government Camp around 2 p.m. due to unsafe conditions.

Deputies from the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene on Highway 35, while ODOT crews helped clear the roadway and applied traction materials to improve driving conditions.

The driver of the commercial motor vehicle was cited for multiple violations, including failure to use required tire chains, which authorities said was the primary cause of the incident.

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