Tioga Pass at the start of October

[Pixelthing]

How crazy would we be to consider taking the Tioga Pass (SR120) from Yosemite to Death Valley on the 5th or 6th October?

We've read lots of articles that say it can only be guaranteed to be open until the end of Sept, so would it just be unlucky to find it closed, or would we be foolish for not bargaining on diverting to Fresno?

Thanks,
Craig.

[Midwest Michael]

Welcome to the RTA Forum!

If the road is unpassable, they close it for the season. Usually that happens in late october or november, (last year it didn't close until early December) so you'll probably be able to drive it at the time of your trip. The closing and opening dates are also the subject of an annual contest here at RTA.

If they do close the road, they will have signs posted even as you are just starting to approach the National Park. Its not like you'd get halfway across the mountain, and then they'd suddenly let you know that the road is closed. If winter does come very early this year, then you'd have to divert, but I certainly wouldn't preplan to go that way at the time of year you are traveling.

[Pixelthing]

Thanks for the comment - much appreciated...

Craig.

[Southwest Dave]

Hi there,

I agree with Michael, nothing is for certain but I would doubt it will close for the season when you are visiting. I would like to add that there is still a possibility of temporary closure due to overnight temperatures. We drove across in the middle of October last year and it was closed because of ice until lunchtime, at which time it had thawed and was deemed safe to travel, although it didn't officially close untill Dec.

I think you will be fine but it's something else to consider as it could add a delay if you are hoping on an early start across Tioga. It's fantastic drive by the way, so allow plenty of time to stop and admire the views and take lots of pictures.

[Mark Sedenquist]

How crazy would we be to consider taking the Tioga Pass (SR120) from Yosemite

With a username like Pixelthing -- you must be a photographer? If so, as much as I love Tioga Pass -- if you are up for some serious mountain photographic options -- consider taking Ebbets Pass (CA-4) over the mountains to US-395. Ebbets Pass in early October will be flat-out gorgeous (it's a lot less traveled in than Tioga) but still one of my favorite roads in the west.

Mark