Highway 108
Sierra Sun Times file photo
May 30, 2019 - TUOLUMNE COUNTY — The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has removed the winter snow, cleared the debris, made necessary repairs and opened
State Route 108 (SR-108)/Sonora Pass at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, 2019.Sonora Pass a few days ago credit: Caltrans
Caltrans manages three trans-Sierra passes in the Central Sierra that are closed during winter and generally open in spring: Ebbetts Pass/ SR-4 in Alpine County, Sonora Pass/SR-108 (Tuolumne County) and Monitor Pass/SR-89 (Alpine County). Tioga Pass/SR-120 is managed by Yosemite National Park.
Sonora Pass rises to 9,623 feet, making it the second highest pass in the Sierra. Even with low volumes of snow, Sonora Pass and Ebbetts Pass require closure during the winter season. Sonora Pass has grades in excess of 20% and Ebbetts Pass had grades in excess of 23%, far exceeding typical highway grades of 6%. The steep grades, high elevation and narrow road cannot accommodate snow removal equipment and vehicular traffic at the same time.
Travelers are advised that there are minimal services available and limited mobile phone service along the high elevations of Sonora Pass. Visitors are also advised to have a full tank of gas and to carry extra food, water and clothing to be prepared for any emergencies.
Caltrans crews responsible for the road opening extend their wishes for safe summer traveling to those who enjoy the recreational opportunities this part of California has to offer.
For the latest information check http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or call 1-800-427-ROAD.
Source: Caltrans
