Expert: Steve Summers - 12/1/2001

Question
We are going to be driving from lA to Yosemite for Xmas. Will we be delayed by snowy roads or closed roads? We are from Florida and have no knowledge of driving in those conditions. We know we will have to carry chains to enter the park,but we are worrying about the drive there. We are staying in Fish Camp.

Also,we have two days to drive there.Is there any other place on the way we shouldn't miss?

Answer
I can't tell you what will happen between now and Xmas, but you can check out www.4yosemite.com/parkinfo.htm for up to date road conditions. Highway 41 (the main road from the south) is still open, but a storm can close it at any time. Check the site occasionally for updates, and check it just before you leave.

Driving in snow is not terribly fun. Just remember to take it slow, and you should be fine. If you DO get to a point where chains are required, here'a a tip: There are usually a number of enterprising young men & women in the turnouts where people have to put on chains. For a feee, they will put the chains on for you while you stay warm and DRY in your car. The price varies, and the last time I paid to have it done, it was $20 or $30. I would say it's money well spent if you don't want to roll around in the snow and you are unfamiliar with snow chains.

If you are in LA, take a few hours to go to either Pasadena, which is getting ready for the Rose Parade, or go to the new Hollywood & Highland complex. The H&H is right next to Mann's Theater, and is a good place to check out. In Pasadena, you can see the floats being built for a small fee. I do this with my family each year, and everybody loves it. After we see the floats, we go into Old Town Pasadena and eat.

Keep in mind that the first 200 miles from LA to Fresno should go pretty quickly. I do it in 3-4 hours, depending on conditions. From Fresno, Highway 41 should go smoothly, and it takes about an hour to get to Oakhurst. Stop here to gas up and get your last chance at recognizable fast food. Fish Camp is another 20-30 minutes up the road, depending on conditions.

Just past Oakhurst is the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railraod, which boasts a real steam engine. Check out their web site at www.ymsprr.com.

Have fun,

Steve