LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A winter storm headed for Mt. Charleston could make travel on the mountain difficult this weekend, Clark County officials warned on Friday.
Snow conditions this year haven’t been great for families who want to take advantage of snow play so close to Las Vegas, but that could change starting Saturday night. The Spring Mountains National Recreation area is expecting light snow showers continuing into Wednesday.
One forecast calls for up to 13 inches of new snow at Lee Canyon. That means travel could be a problem if you’re not prepared.
Officials urged visitors to pay attention to forecasts, advisories, highway reader boards and flashing signs on U.S. 95, Kyle Canyon Road (SR157) and Lee Canyon Road (SR156).
- Mt. Charleston weather conditions: https://mtcharlestonweather.com/
- Nevada road conditions: https://www.nvroads.com/
Travelers can even check webcams for current conditions. Officials recommend looking at:
- The Mount Charleston Weather Webcam (https://mtcharlestonweather.com/webcam/) faces towards Nevada State Route 156 (Lee Canyon Road), which is helpful to see snow play traffic.
- The Lee Canyon Resort Webcam (https://www.leecanyonlv.com/webcams/) shows various angles of the slopes and lodge area.
Signs will indicate when four-wheel drive and snow tires or tire chains are required to proceed up the mountain. Failure to comply could result in traffic citations. For more detailed information on Nevada Department of Transportation’s traction and chain requirements, please visit: https://bit.ly/NDOTTractionandChainRequirements.
More guidance from agencies in the Mt. Charleston Winter Alliance includes:
- In case of a roadway emergency, dial NHP (647) or 911 to report a serious accident. Since cell phone service is limited, public phones are located on Lee Canyon Road across from Lee Meadows, Old Mill Picnic Area, and Foxtail Snow Play Area. Local 702 and 911 calls from these phones are free.
- When traveling to the Spring Mountains, visitors should start with a full tank of gas because there are no gas stations on the mountain. Always carry with you: tire chains, tow strap, cell phone, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, snow shovel, blankets/sleeping bags, first aid kit, compass, maps, bag of sand/kitty litter for traction, spare batteries, non-perishable foods, and water.
- Travelers should also wear appropriate clothing. Do not trespass on private property or closed areas. All winter snow play activities should end before the daylight fades and colder temperatures set in, potentially making it unsafe to continue. Sledding is also not recommended in areas where there is less than 12 inches of snow. Trash should be carried home or placed in dumpsters or trashcans. Owners should keep pets on a leash and clean up their waste.
- Lee Canyon Ski Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other activities. Guests should purchase daily lift tickets, rentals, and private lessons in advance. Reservations are not required for scenic chair rides or dining at the resort’s restaurants. For more information, visit www.leecanyonlv.com.
For more detailed winter safety tips, please visit: https://bit.ly/SMNRAWinterSafetyTips or https://bit.ly/WinterRecreationTips.
