Note: Be sure to check the latest CalTrans Road Report online for Highway 4 before you travel. The highway closes occassionally during the autumn with storms.

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The high-country segment of Highway 4 between Lake Alpine and Silver Creek is closed during the winter months (approximately mid-November to May). The Forest Service keeps portions of this section groomed for winter recreation activities such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. CalTrans crews maintain the lower elevation portions of the route for winter travel; however, 4-wheel drive and/or chains or snow tires are frequently required due to heavy snow accumulation or icy conditions.

The highway reopens in the spring after snowmelt, normally by Memorial Day, but sometimes as early as April or as late as July depending on snow conditions.

ROAD CONDITIONS

Check the latest CalTrans Road Report online for Highway 4 before you travel, or call their toll-free voice activated phone service, 800.427.7623. This service is available free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You'll get up-to-the-minute road conditions and information about incidents that may cause significant traffic delays; weather restrictions; highway closures; 1-way traffic controls; lane closures; construction and maintenance project advisories and emergencies.

Also, if you're visiting Ebbetts Pass in the winter, please visit the CalTrans Winter Driving Tips page. Help keep everyone safe on the road!

WEATHER CONDITIONS

There are several great weather resources online for the spots along the Scenic Byway. Here are just a few ...

NWS ARNOLD, CA 7-Day Forecast

NWS MARKLEEVILLE, CA 7-Day Forecast

Click here for an hourly update on temperature, precipitation, and wind via Bear Valley Mountain Resort.

Here is a live weather link from Quaking Aspen road in Bear Valley, which includes live web cams.