Bear Valley, CA…The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed State Route 4 (SR-4) for the winter as of Wednesday, November 29, 2017.  The recent storms, and accumulation of snow, make the seasonal closure necessary for the safety of motorists and Caltrans crews. The weather conditions on the pass and subsequent road conditions are among the determining factors in the decision to make the seasonal closure.  Once the pass is closed for winter, it will not be reopened until conditions warrant. Each year, Caltrans crews work diligently to clear debris, remove snow and make repairs so the highway can reopen by the Memorial Day weekend.

Check ahead: Please check local highway conditions before planning to travel to the high country by visiting the Caltrans QuickMap site at quickmap.dot.ca.gov orcall the Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Also, the radio may be tuned to Caltrans Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) at 530 AM, 1610 AM or 1670 AM for information.

For road conditions in Yosemite National Park, please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm  or call 209-372-0200.

Be prepared: Winter weather and road conditions can change rapidly. Motorists should expect the worst conditions and be prepared when traveling in areas subject to hazardous conditions.  Caltrans reminds drivers to carry chains and to be prepared for winter driving conditions. We recommend carrying blankets, water, food, a shovel, gloves, a flashlight, and sand or kitty litter to provide traction in case your vehicle becomes stuck.

All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires should, additionally, carry chains/traction control devices when traveling during snowy weather.

Drivers without chains in their possession may not be allowed to proceed.  When highway signs indicate that chains are required, drivers must stop and install chains or risk being cited and fined.

CHAIN CONTROL REQUIREMENT LEVELS:

No Restrictions – Watch for snow on pavement.

R-1:    Chains are required on all commercial vehicles (trucks or buses).  All other vehicles (cars, pick-ups, vans, etc.) must have either snow tread tires or chains on the drive axle.

R-2:    Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel drives with snow tread tires.  Four-wheel drive vehicles must carry chains in the vehicle.

R-3:    Chains required – ALL VEHICLES – no exceptions.

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For the safety of workers and other motorists, please Be Work Zone Alert.

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