Snow Smart Driving. It's a Mammoth Thing.

December 18, 2024

Planning a trip to Mammoth Lakes for skiing and winter adventure? Fantastic! We’re thrilled for you to experience all that this beautiful destination has to offer. Whether you're flying in and renting a car or driving your own vehicle, winter travel can come with its share of challenges, particularly when it comes to unpredictable road conditions.

To help ensure your snowy vacation stays safe and stress-free, we’ve put together some essential tips for winter driving in Mammoth Lakes.

In this mountain town, getting there isn’t just about where you’re headed—it’s about how you get there.

Essential tips for winter driving in Mammoth Lakes

Check road conditions

The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) officials urge you to check road conditions often. Call 800-427-7623 for up-to-the-minute information or visit the CalTrans website for road conditions and closure information in California.

If you're traveling through Nevada on your way to Mammoth Lakes, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) provides similar updates for Nevada road conditions via phone at 877-687-6237 or on the NDOT website.

Clear snow off your car

Whether a storm brings three inches of snow or three feet, clearing off your vehicle completely is the first step to safe driving in winter conditions. The front windshield and windows are obvious parts of the vehicle that need attention before driving, but many people forget to clear off the roof and hood of the vehicle. Snow piled on the roof can come loose when the vehicle is in motion and be hazardous for both the driver and other vehicles on the road. Be sure to keep your headlights and taillights clear before hitting the road so other vehicles can see your car, especially in foggy or snowy conditions.

Leave extra travel time

Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Excessive speed is an invitation for trouble on snow or ice and is the major cause of traffic accidents during winter. Winter road conditions leave very little margin for driver error and very little opportunity for safe, quick braking. Going too fast definitely increases your chances of being involved in an accident. So please, SLOW DOWN! This is especially important when approaching turns. Stay cautious and take your time.

Expect icy spots (even if you can't see them!)

After a storm, many roads will soon be clear, but there are places throughout town, especially in shady areas, bridges and underpasses where there will be patches of black ice for some time. Late night or early morning hours are especially dangerous since moisture has had a chance to accumulate. So be on the lookout for these spots and slow down before you get to them.

Stock up on gas and supplies

Changing route or turning back may be necessary during a bad storm. Or you may be caught in a traffic delay. Keep your gas tank as full as possible and pack water, food, warm blankets, and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.

Carry the proper equipment

Winter driving requires proper winter driving equipment. All vehicles are required to carry snow chains during storms. Other recommended items include an ice scraper or commercial deicer, gloves, a broom or brush for clearing snow, a shovel to free your car if it's "snowed in."

We love to see cars with chains, but be sure to pull over and put them on in an appropriate location — before you need them! We know winter storms can feel hectic but take a deep breath, check your surroundings and put on (or take off) chains safely in a parking space, or pulled fully off the side of the road, and don't forget to engage your emergency brake. State Route 203 as you get off the Mammoth Lakes exit from HWY 395 can be a good spot to chain up since you may encounter more snow and icy just a couple minutes up the road where the elevation climbs into town. Pro-tip: Have a headlamp ready for a hands-free light source in case you need to put chains on in the dark or stormy conditions and turn your hazard lights on for increased visibility from other drivers.

Anticipate poor visibility

Speaking of visibility, it is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles, snow equipment and wildlife. Even though snow removal vehicles have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm so practice caution and stay alert.

Be willing to pull over

If the storm becomes too dangerous to drive in and you are forced to pull over, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be mindful to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems while you wait in your vehicle.

Be sure to park legally

Because of overnight plowing, parking on any town roadway is illegal from November 1 through April 30. Park your vehicle in designated areas and make sure it is well inside the orange snow stakes to avoid a collision from snow removal equipment.

Take public transit

Whenever possible, take public transit and safe yourself the hassle. Hoping on public transportation means less stressful driving and parking for you, and more enjoying the magical winter scenery!

Road condition information

The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans)

Phone: 800-427-7623 for up-to-the-minute information
CalTrans website for road conditions and closure information in California

Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT)

Phone: 877-687-6237
NDOT website

Author

Visit Mammoth

Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.