Press releases

Updated Conditions for Inyo County Mountain Roads

The Inyo County Road Dept team has been working extremely hard to clear mountain roads before fishing opener. Due to historic snowpack in the Sierra, this year has proven to be quite challenging. However, as of this week there are some new open roads!

South Lake 4-25-17 … courtesy of Inyo County Sheriff’s office

Upper Rock Creek, above Tom’s Place – CLOSED- Mono County Road was going to begin snow removal operations the week of April 17th, however, due to challenging snow conditions this has not been possible. Inyo will not be able to access and estimate the snow removal timeline for the last mile of Rock Creek Rd. in Inyo County until the week of May 15th.

Pine Creek Rd. – OPEN- No restrictions

Sabrina Rd., – OPEN – We have cleared and will maintain two lane access to the lake parking lot, parking is limited at Sabrina Lake. The road will still be ICY at times – so drive cautiously.

North Lake Rd. – CLOSED- Due to the narrow and hazardous sections of road, there are no immediate plans to open North Lake Rd., conditions will be monitored and reassessed May 8th.

South Lake Rd. – CLOSURE MOVING- Effective Friday (4/28) at 4:30pm, the closure will move to Parchers Resort and Pack Station. There will be limited parking available there, and ICY conditions. Walking access will be from there to South Lake.

Glacier Lodge Rd. -OPEN- No restrictions

Onion Valley Rd. – OPEN, Effective Friday (4/28) at 4:30pm. expect ICY conditions at times.

Whitney Portal Rd. – OPEN, Effective Friday (4/28) at 4:30pm.

Horseshoe Meadows Rd. – CLOSED- Due to road structural damage and rockslides; Inyo County is in the process of emergency opening repairs, we are anticipating limited access mid-June, depending on conditions.

Nine Mile Rd. – OPEN – No restrictions.

Please anticipate limited parking at higher elevations due to snow, so plan ahead. And remember that road conditions can change based on the weather so stay up to date.
You may see road workers, please be courteous.

What is a road closure?

Mountain roads in Inyo County are closed during the month of November and re-open (weather permitting) by May 1st.

Seasonal road closures are required due to weather-related hazardous conditions including rock and mud slides, heavy snow, and flood risks. While some mountain roads are equipped with gates that physically block vehicle access, other roads rely on signage to inform the public.

“Although we are nearing the end of road closure season, there have been several common questions that the public has asked for clarification on,” stated Inyo County Road Superintendent Chris Cash. “It is our hope that by providing some clarification, both our residents and our visitors are better informed and ultimately safer.”

District Five Supervisor Matt Kingsley agrees, “Road closures are in place for your safety. Responsible outdoor recreation begins with each of us; and whether it is a posted sign or a closed gate, please be respectful and remember that putting yourself at risk ultimately places others at risk.”

What is a road closure? A road closure is meant to block vehicular traffic; this includes all motorized vehicles (ATVs, motorcycles, cars).

Can I walk, ride a bike, or ski past a road closure? If there is road construction or a road clearing operation there may be an additional sign posted stating “No Pedestrian Traffic”. If you see this sign you may not enter on foot, skis, or bicycle. If you do not see this sign you may walk, ski, or ride a bicycle at your own risk.

What could happen if I ignore a road closure? Ignoring a posted sign is an infraction and you may be cited under CA Vehicle Code 21461(a). Although it has not been common practice for the County of Inyo to enforce road closures, there has been a notable increase in vehicle traffic on closed Inyo County mountain roads.

If you are inclined to recreate past a road closure please park safely below the closure and walk to your desired location.