Tioga pass end September

[kwai]

I'm planning a trip for 3 weeks starting near the end of September, flying into San Fran and out from Phoenix.

The first stop on the way is Yosemite and heading from there towards Vegas, probably via Death Valley. I gather the Tioga pass may or may not be open at that time of year, so I was hoping to plan an extra stop to make the a drive the long way round feasible. If Tioga pass is closed is one of the routes round North of that likely to be open? If so, I could book somewhere around Mono Lake / Mammoth Lakes area. Any recommendations for somewhere to stay in this area?

thanks,
Ben

[Mark Sedenquist]

I'm planning a trip for 3 weeks starting near the end of September, flying into San Fran and out from Phoenix.

Welcome to the Great American RoadTrip Forum -- I have mentioned it before, but your window may be the most perfect time of the year for roadtripping in the west.

The first stop on the way is Yosemite and heading from there towards Vegas, probably via Death Valley.

Tioga Pass usually closes with the first major snowfall. Last year it was not closed until November 25th and the average is still around Halloween, so I think you will be fine.

I gather the Tioga pass may or may not be open at that time of year, so I was hoping to plan an extra stop to make the a drive the long way round feasible.

There are seven passes over the Sierra Nevada Mountains (four north of Tioga) one down near Sequoia NP and one through the foothills along SR-58. SR-58 Tehachapi) and I-80 (Reno) are both conidered to be all-weather passes (although both are sometimes closed when conditions get bad enough).

If Tioga pass is closed is one of the routes round North of that likely to be open?

Yes, Sonora Pass, US-50 and I-80 are open most days throughout the winter and spring.

If so, I could book somewhere around Mono Lake / Mammoth Lakes area. Any recommendations for somewhere to stay in this area?

Mammoth Lakes is gorgeous -- hundreds of motel and condo rooms here -- Bishop would be my personal favorite in the area.

Happy Planning!

Mark

[Mark Sedenquist]

Ben,

Be sure to read Mark Helmlinger's field report about this area, for other cool stuff to see on your way!

Mark