Driving Safety Tips for the San Bernardino Mountains in Various Weather Conditions
Driving through the San Bernardino Mountains can be a breathtaking experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when the weather turns. Whether you’re navigating through wind, fog, snow, or rain, it’s crucial to be prepared and stay safe. Here are some essential tips to help you drive safely in these conditions.
General Tips for All Conditions
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Keep your vehicle well-maintained with a full gas tank, and check your tires, wipers, and engine fluids before hitting the road.
- Carry Essentials: Bring warm clothes, appropriate shoes, a charged cell phone and charger, and a trash bag to keep the environment clean. Bring snacks and water in case you get stuck in traffic.
- Plan Your Trip: Avoid traveling during peak times to reduce the risk of traffic bottlenecks and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Stay Informed: Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before you travel. Use resources like Caltrans QuickMap for real-time updates.
Windy Road Conditions
- Stay Alert: High winds can cause sudden gusts that may push your vehicle, especially on open stretches of road. Keep both hands on the wheel and stay focused.
- Reduce Speed: Slowing down gives you more control over your vehicle and reduces the impact of wind gusts.
- Watch for Debris: Wind can blow debris onto the road. Be prepared to avoid branches, rocks, and other obstacles.
- Avoid Large Vehicles: Trucks and buses are more affected by wind and can sway or even tip over. Keep a safe distance from them.
Foggy Road Conditions
- Use Low Beams: High beams can reflect off the fog and reduce visibility. Use low beams or fog lights if you have them.
- Slow Down: Fog reduces visibility, so drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the distance you can see.
- Follow Road Markings: Use the road’s centerline or edge markings to guide you.
- Increase Following Distance: Give yourself more space between your car and the vehicle in front to allow for sudden stops.
Snowy Road Conditions
- Equip Your Vehicle: Always carry tire chains, even if there’s no chain control at the time. Fall / Winter conditions can change fast.
- Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater, and exhaust system are in good condition.
- Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed to maintain control and avoid skidding.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer gently to prevent losing traction.
- Stay Informed: Check road conditions and closures before you travel.
Rainy Road Conditions
- Check Your Tires: Ensure your tires have good tread and are properly inflated to prevent hydroplaning.
- Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights to improve visibility and make your vehicle more visible to others.
- Avoid Puddles: Driving through standing water can cause hydroplaning and hide potholes or debris.
- Drive Slowly: Mountain roads have switchbacks and hard angled turns to navigate. Take your time.
- Increase Following Distance: Wet roads increase stopping distances, so give yourself more space to stop safely.
Driving in the San Bernardino Mountains can be a rewarding experience if you are well-prepared and cautious. By following these tips, you can ensure a safer journey through the beautiful but challenging terrain.
check before you drive
Weather & Road Condition
Links & Information
Snow Plowing & Removal
General Snow Removal and snow plowing Information for San Bernardino County
National Weather Service
Current weather conditions for Lake Arrowhead.
Current Road Closures
Visit the San Bernardino County Road Closure page before traveling or exploring our mountain roads. Maintenance, rain, fire or snow can be reasons for closures.
Explore The Forest
Visit the US Forest Services Page for San Bernardino National Forest where you can find out about Adventure Passes and permits, fire restrictions, road closures and recreational sites.