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Sonora Pass Highway Opens For Summer Travel

TUOLOMNE COUNTY — For those who love the adventure of a road trip up and over Sonora Pass on Highway 108, pack up the car — summer is here!

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has removed the winter snow, cleared the debris and made the necessary repairs to open State Route 108 over Sonora Pass at noon today, Wednesday, May 18.

For those who are adventurous, this is one for the bucket list. The highway over the pass is extremely steep (exceeding 8 percent for most of the traverse, and up to 26 percent grades in some locations), narrow and winding between Kennedy Meadows on the west side and Leavitt Meadows on the east. The route is not recommended for vehicles or vehicle combinations that are unusually wide, heavy or long. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonora_Pass)

Caltrans crews have been working diligently to ensure the roadway is ready for summer travel and get the pass open for motorists who utilize this route. To see some of the challenges that come with opening the mountain routes, check out this video.

Caltrans crews responsible for the road opening extend their best wishes for safe summer traveling to those who enjoy the recreational opportunities this part of California has to offer.

Winter weather and road conditions can change rapidly. Motorists should expect the worst conditions and be prepared when traveling in areas subject to hazardous conditions. All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires should, additionally, carry chains when traveling during snowy weather.

For the latest in highway information please call our Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).

For the safety of workers and other motorists, please Slow For the Cone Zone!

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Sierra News Online

Sierra News Online