Over the last few days Yosemite has received a large accumulation of snow with more snow and rain expected today and into the middle of next week.
Chain controls are currently in effect for Highway 41 from Fresno and Oakhurst from 3.5 miles North of Big Cedar Springs. Chain controls are also in effect along Highway 120 into the park. No chain controls have been reported for Highway 140.
All motorists are REQUIRED to CARRY chains in their vehicle when entering the park in winter and chains may become MANDATORY at any time.
Valley roads may be icy even after being plowed and may have a layer of 3-5 inches of hard ice especially on Southside Drive and in shaded areas. I would not recommend taking a lower clearance vehicle such as the family car as ice may become grooved and you may scrape or become high-centered.
Highway 120 into the park is currently undergoing bridge construction between Groveland and 49 Junction. Traffic controls are in effect during the day with a 30-40 minute wait time. Highway 120 is CLOSED AT NIGHT for construction. Take Highway 140 through Merced or Highway 41 through Oakhurst and Fresno if you’re headed out of the park after 5:00pm.
For more information on California Highway Conditions you can go online to: http://www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi
For Yosemite National Park Road Conditions call: (209) 372-0200 (press 1 then 1).