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- Reduce your speed to match driving conditions and allow more time to reach your destination. Know that bridges and ramps may be more slippery than the roadway. Keep your fuel tank full. Bad weather may cause long delays or closures. Turn on your headlights to see and be seen. Be observant and maintain a safe distance behind snow removal equipment.
dot.ca.gov/news-releases/news-release-2019-002
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Caltrans is encouraging motorists traveling to or through the mountains this winter to be prepared for winter driving conditions. Learn more in these updated tips to help drivers keep safe: Download and print our Winter Driving Brochure (PDF) and view a Winter Driving Tips video (2:40). #DontCrowdThePlow. And, before you leave, always remember ...
- Settle into San Francisco. Once you have arrived in San Francisco and have adjusted to the time zone in California, it’s time to explore this fascinating city.
- Enjoy Visiting Los Angeles. When you get to Los Angeles, you must prepare for your visit. And it’s not an easy thing to do! We are talking about a huge metropolis and visiting it without a precise program could ruin your experience.
- Snow in Death Valley. You have finally arrived in Death Valley, one of the most fascinating and remarkable national parks. You can visit most of Death Valley in one day, and the winter, which is definitely milder than the summer, so its easier to enjoy the visit of the whole area.
- The Extravagance of Las Vegas. In just over 2 hours, you will arrive in Las Vegas, one of the most unique cities you can visit in the USA. All the main attractions are concentrated in the Las Vegas Strip, the famous street lined with bizarre hotels, endless casinos, and all the nightlife you could want (maybe too much!).
Winter in California can vary from sunshine to rain, wind and snow. From the wintery deserts to high Sierra to the packed freeways, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reminds you that winter brings its own special road safety and travel preparation lists.
- Uncover the beauty Lake Tahoe has to offer. This is where local SoCals go to get some snow – this obviously had to be 1st on my list! Lake Tahoe is a real-life winter wonderland with stunning snow-covered landscapes and ski resorts at every turn.
- Plan a getaway at Yosemite National Park. I visited Yosemite National Park in February 2023 and was in LOVE with the ice-covered trails, lively waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes.
- Discover the winter months in San Diego. I’m a San Diego native, so I might be a little biased, but it’s the finest (and sunniest) city on Earth! If you’re looking to escape the cold weather wherever you’re from, San Diego is one of the sunniest cities in the Golden State (seriously, all year round).
- Take a trip to Los Angeles for endless winter activities. I’ve been to LA so many times, and I gotta say, there’s always something new to do here. If you haven’t figured it out yet – the Southern California coast in the winter season is generally pretty warm, and Los Angeles is no exception!
- Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite places to visit in California in winter. My family had a place here when I was growing up, and I’ve spent a lot of time in this part of the Golden State.
- Los Angeles. Los Angeles is next on my list of the best places to visit in California in winter. With mild weather, world-class beaches, award-winning restaurants, and plenty to do and see, LA has a lot going for it.
- Solvang & Santa Ynez Valley. In Santa Barbara County, Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley make for another great winter getaway in California. Situated between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the San Rafael Mountains, this part of the Golden State is known for its award-winning vineyards and wineries, charming towns, and beautiful scenery.
- Mammoth Lakes. Mammoth Lakes is another of the best places to visit in California in winter. It’s known for offering a wide variety of outdoor activities in the colder months.
Although big snowstorms are great for extending California’s ski season—all the way to July in some cases—they also create potential weather-related challenges for drivers heading to the mountains.
Read winter driving safety tips before driving to Big Bear Lake. Learn where to check for updates when Big Bear requires tire chains and read other safety tips.
