With snow season in full effect, we’re looking forward to seeing you all making snowmen and memories here at The Pines Resort. Still, there is something we value slightly more than all the fun you can possibly have: your safety. So, here are some snow safety tips we want to share with you before you dive into the fresh foot of snow here at the lake!
ROAD CONDITIONS CAN CHANGE QUICKLY
Mountains that are covered in snow are beautiful, but the roads covered with snow are dangerous. Even if you think that you know how to drive in the snow, keep in mind that driving on unfamiliar roads can pose their own challenges. The differences in elevation within rather short distances traveled can lead to a variety of road conditions.
On the short drive from Oakhurst to Bass Lake, there is at least 1,000 feet of elevation change. That often results in the switch over from rain to snow and with it, icy road conditions. It has happened so often that an old restaurant and bar just north of Oakhurst on highway 41 was aptly named “Snowline”. Just past the “Snowline” is the turn toward Bass Lake on road 222. This road climbs in elevation for several miles and is often a location for chain control after a fresh snowfall.
Make safety your priority. Drive with confidence but also with caution. In cooler, wet temps, a thin, transparent layer of ice forms over the road and is essentially impossible to notice, making the mountain roads dangerous.
For this very reason, it is important you 1) drive slowly and 2) do not panic should you find yourself sliding on the road. Do not slam on the breaks and try your best to steer your vehicle straight.
CHAIN ENFORCEMENT CAN HAPPEN AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE
Chain enforcement can happen at any point during the winter and even into the spring. Every winter storm drops snow at different elevations. The enforcement of using chains can begin as far south as below Coarsegold or as far north as Fish Camp. It is this large variation that necessitates always having chains in your car before making the drive up to Bass Lake during the winter and spring seasons. There are reduced speed limits when driving with chains on your vehicle so if you plan on coming to play in fresh snow, then give yourself plenty of travel time.
We should note, there is one exception to the mandatory chains rule: Vehicles with 4-wheel drive AND all-weather tires do not require chains. However, it is always better to air on the side of caution, so keeping a set of chains in your trunk “just in case” is a good idea.
SOME (or all) ROADS MAY BE CLOSED WITHIN YOSEMITE
Depending on the severity of the recent storms, some or all of the roads in Yosemite can be closed due to heavy snow and fallen trees. However, conditions are frequently changing. Visit the Yosemite website for updated info on the park’s weather and road conditions. You can also follow the Yosemite National Park Service’s Instagram page @yosemitenps for photos and updates.
While snow is never guaranteed, it is often expected anytime from December to March and sometimes even into April. Even if there is no snow on the ground at the lake, a short drive up highway 41 or Beasore road will often result in finding enough snow to play. So, keep your eyes on the weather and make plans to bring the littles out for some winter wonderland fun.
OTHER THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
Do not let wintery weather to negatively impact your travel plans. There are “snow” many reasons to visit Bass Lake and Yosemite in Winter! You can still travel safely in winter weather. The goal is to plan and prepare ahead, that way you can make your trip stress-free and enjoyable.
7 Tips for Traveling in Winter:
Tip 1: Monitor the weather – avoid travelling early in the morning when roads tend to be icy or while heavy snow is expected.
Tip 2: Check Road Conditions – before you get everyone loaded in the car, double check road conditions for possible road closures and chain requirements.
Tip 3: Be Flexible – make safety your priority and allow some flexibility in your plans. You may need to change your departure time, sometimes that means leaving earlier or arriving a day later. Other times, you will have to change your planned route to avoid delays or hazardous conditions.
Tip 4: Be Understanding – snowstorms affect everyone, not just you! Believe us, when we say, that as a Hotel, we would rather be packed full than have to cancel your reservations. Things happen! Snowstorms are sometimes followed by fallen trees, flooded cabins or power outages. Often, small accommodation, like changing room types is enough to handle it, other times due to power outages (very rarely) we need to reschedule everyone for another day.
Tip 5: Prepare your car – make sure that your car is equipped with safety kit, that includes a set of chains, shovel, flashlights, etc.
Tip 6: Educate yourself – make sure to review safety recommendations for driving in the snow. This is not the time to show off your driving skills. Your goal is to make it safely to your destination:
- increase distance between the car in front of you
- keep your running lights on
- do not slam on your brakes
- bring phone charger
- have plenty of gas, etc.
Tip 7: Be Safe – if, at any time you break down or need to pull over – stay in your vehicle and call for help. If you are not comfortable to drive – do not feel pressured. Lack of confidence when driving and being under stress can pose more danger for you and other travelers. We will be flexible and happy to accommodate you at another time.
Be Safe and come to visit the Winter Wonderland at Bass Lake!
You might also like
Leave A Reply