Seasonal routes on state highways in the Central Sierra open for summer season; stay-at-home order remains in effect

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced today it has opened seasonal highways in the Sierra after completing necessary road repairs and removing winter snow and debris in preparation for the summer season.

The opening of the Sierra routes comes at a time when California’s “stay-at-home” order remains in effect until further notice. All Californians are reminded that it is critical to stay home during this time in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, social distancing behaviors and other preventive measures as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the California Department of Public Health help protect the health and well-being of everyone. #StayHomeSaveLives

A comprehensive update on the status of the seasonal passes is listed below:

• State Route 4 (Ebbetts Pass) Open for the summer season.

• State Route 89 (Monitor Pass) Open for the summer season.

• State Route 108 (Sonora Pass) Open for the summer season.

• State Route 120 (Tuolumne County) Open for the summer season.

• State Route 120 (Mono County) Open for the summer season.

Yosemite National Park remains closed at this time. National Park Service officials manage Tioga Road inside Yosemite National Park. Please call the Park Service for updates at: (209) 372-0200.

• State Route 158 Open for the summer season.

• State Route 168 West (Bishop Creek) Open for the summer season.

For the latest road condition information, call the Caltrans Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Real time conditions are also available online and for mobile phones at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov. Changeable Message Signs with flashing beacons will have information regarding the pass closures visible along the highways.

Early season conditions exist and road conditions can change rapidly. All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires should, additionally, carry chains when traveling during the spring season. There are minimal services available and limited mobile phone service along the high elevations of these Sierra routes. Visitors are advised to have a full tank of gas and to carry extra food, water and clothing to be prepared for emergencies.