Winter Access to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Snow may close the Generals Highway between Lodgepole and Grant Grove briefly during or after storms, or for weeks at a time. Other sections of the road may close briefly for plowing. For current weather and road conditions, phone the park's 24-hour information line at 559-565-3341, then press 4. This recording is updated between 9 and 9:30 am daily.
For information on road conditions throughout California, call CALTRANS at 1-800-427-7623.
Check your car before venturing into the mountains in the winter. Make sure that your vehicle's electrical system and battery are up to par, that you have adequate anti-freeze to protect your car to -25 degrees F (-32 degrees C), and that your wiper blades are in good condition.
Snow tires or tire chains may be required on park roads. Always carry chains that fit your tires. Watch for Chains Required signs along the road. Snow tires are labeled M/S, M+s (mud and snow), or display a snowflake on the sidewall. Chains are available for sale or rent in Three Rivers and at local businesses along Highway 180.
Roads above the 4000' elevation are often icy, especially in shady places. Drive carefully! Allow 6 seconds of distance between you and car ahead. Gently feather your brakes when slowing down. Avoid sudden acceleration, turns or stops which may cause your vehicle to lose traction.
Snowplows may appear at any time, moving with or against traffic. If you encounter a plow, slow down and proceed with extreme caution. Plows may be unable to stop.
Remove snow from car roofs. Tragic accidents have been caused by snow sliding over the windshield and blocking the driver's vision.

The following roads close from late fall through spring. Check bulletin board for current status. In fall and spring when closure or opening might be imminent, call 559-565-3341 then press 4 for the most up-to-date information:

Highway 180 from Hume Lake Junction east into the Kings Canyon and Cedar Grove.
The Mineral King Road starting 18 miles from Highway 198 to the Mineral King Valley, 25 miles up.
The Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road in Giant Forest.
The Panoramic Point Road in Grant Grove.
The Crystal Cave Road and Crystal Cave itself, located off the Generals Highway between Potwisha Campground and Giant Forest.
The Redwood Mountain Road in Kings Canyon.

Winter Access to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

The following roads close from late fall through spring. Check bulletin board for current status. In fall and spring when closure or opening might be imminent, call 559-565-3341 then press 4 for the most up-to-date information:

http://www.nps.gov/seki/winterrd.htm Last update: May 17, 2001

http://www.nps.gov/seki/winterrd.htm
Last update: May 17, 2001