subject: Driving In Winter Wonderland [print this page] When it comes to some of the heaviest snowfalls in the state of California, very few can beat the record of Mammoth Lakes. Fortunately, Mammoth Lake has an efficient team of snow removal crew who ensures that the area is always safe to pass through.
Since the snowfall at Mammoth Lakes is more pronounced than in other areas, drivers as well as vacationers are advised to follow certain guidelines to ensure their safety on the road. If you would be travelling to or through Mammoth Lakes, one of the things that you have to keep in mind is that, from the first of November until the end of April the following month, there are virtually no parking areas around the town roads.
If you would be travelling in the eastern Sierra during winter months, you would have to carry chains at all times. Whenever you see signs indicating that chains are required, you have to put the chains on your wheels. This would help give you more friction in areas where snow is thickest. If you fail to put on the chains, you would be stopped by the highway patrol. In instances when you do not have chains with you, you will not be allowed to continue your trip.
If you see signs along the way to your Mammoth Lakes lodging that state R-1, R-2 and R-3, these means that chains or snow tires must be put on at all times except for four-wheel-drive vehicles, in the case of R-1. If you see an R-2, this means that chains are required on all vehicle types except four-wheel-drives that have snow tires. R-3, on the other hand, means that all vehicles are required to put on chains.
Since during winter trips to the mountain can take a longer amount of time, make sure that you leave your Mammoth Lakes lodging early. Since you have plenty of time, you are less likely to speed up in order to get ahead of the line. Keep in mind that icy roads and speeding vehicles are an invitation for disaster.
Lastly, even when the snow storm stops, it does not mean that you can already speed up when driving. Keep in mind that there are some areas where black ice can form. Your best option would still be to slow down and arrive to your Mammoth Lakes lodging in one piece.
