Caltrans Announces Seasonal Road Closures of Mountain Passes

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Caltrans has closed these three mountain passes for the season. | Image: Caltrans Instagram

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has closed State Route 4/Ebbetts Pass, State Route 89/Monitor Pass, and State Route 108/Sonora Pass for the winter. 

  • State Route 4/Ebbetts Pass is currently closed from the Mt. Reba turnoff just west of Lake Alpine to Silver Creek, 5 miles west of the Route 89 junction (Alpine County).
  • State Route 89/Monitor Pass is closed from U.S. 395 to the Alpine/Mono County line.
  • State Route 108/Sonora Pass is currently closed from Kennedy Meadows (Tuolumne County) to the U.S. 395 junction in Mono County.

Tioga Pass has been closed since November 21, 2023.

The recent storms, and accumulation of snow, make the seasonal closures necessary for the safety of motorists and Caltrans crews. The weather conditions on the passes and subsequent road conditions are among the determining factors in the decision to make the seasonal closures. Once the passes are closed for winter, they 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 safely to motorists.

For the latest road condition information, tune your radio to the Caltrans Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) at 530 AM, 1610 AM or 1670 AM or call the Caltrans Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Real time conditions are also available online and for mobile phones at quickmap.dot.ca.gov. Changeable Message Signs with flashing beacons will have information regarding the pass closures.

Caltrans urges motorists to use caution while driving in winter conditions and watch for icy road surfaces in the overnight and early morning hours. Please keep in mind that 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.  All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires should, additionally, carry chains 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.

Map showing locations of Tioga, Sonora, Ebbetts, and Monitor passes in California.

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