Winter Break Visitation Tips
With winter break starting for Clark County students next week, the Las Vegas community often looks to Mount Charleston for winter recreation opportunities. Considering the novelty of snow in the desert, it is understandable that visitors want to venture the short distance from Las Vegas to enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and other typical snow play activities.
Unfortunately, there is currently no snow on the ground to support snow play, and no snowfall is expected in the near future. Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so always check the National Weather Service website before you make the journey.
Despite the lack of snow, the colder temperatures have helped Lee Canyon Ski Resort mark its earliest opening in over a decade. Currently, three out of five lifts are operating, offering access to beginner and intermediate terrain and over 15 terrain park features for riders of all skill levels.
Even without snow, Mount Charleston is still a great place to come and recreate this winter. Several recreation sites remain that are open year-round to the public, including McWilliams and Fletcher View Campgrounds, Kyle Canyon and Sawmill Picnic Areas, and numerous trailheads and trails. Check out a complete list of open sites here.
Getting Here
When you are planning a winter trip to Mount Charleston, be sure to check area-specific weather, driving, parking, and snow play information before you leave. Also, call 511 to check driving conditions, chain requirements, and road closures before traveling. For public safety, it is also best to wait to drive up the mountain until after a snowstorm and roads have time to be plowed.
Be sure to leave earlier than you might in the summer months to allow enough time to enjoy your chosen activity before the daylight fades and colder temperatures set in, potentially making it unsafe to continue. 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, a bag of sand/kitty litter for traction, spare batteries, non-perishable foods, and water. Here is another great resource to make sure you are ready to go before visiting the Mountain.
Trail Safety
Once you’re on the mountain, you’ll notice that snow-covered landscapes look very different than in summer. While out on the trails, do not rely on others' tracks, which could lead you astray. Always be willing to turn around. Weather and trail conditions can change quickly as snow falls and melts. Even the best-laid plans can go awry, so it is important to know what to do if you find yourself disoriented.
During the winter months, trails on Mount Charleston experience a wide range of conditions, including dry, black ice, hard-packed snow and ice, loose snow, slush, and every combination. Waterproof footwear and traction devices are essential. In deep snow, snowshoes reduce how much a hiker sinks into the powder. On packed snow and ice, micro-spikes and other traction devices provide additional traction for better footing. Trekking poles are also highly recommended to provide more points of contact with the ground, which increases balance and traction.
If you Do need help
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.
To ensure timely emergency response and public safety during the popular winter months, the Nevada Highway Patrol and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department monitor traffic congestion, available parking, and road conditions in Kyle and Lee Canyons and regulate access. Depending on conditions, delays, and periodic road closures may occur on Nevada State Routes 156 (Lee Canyon Road), 157 (Kyle Canyon Road), and 158 (Deer Creek Road).
While You’re here
It is important to abide by all posted parking and trespassing signs. Illegally parked vehicles may be fined and towed. In areas where roadside parking is permitted, ensure all tires are to the right of the white line to keep the lane clear for emergency vehicles.
Always wear appropriate clothing for your planned activities. Sledding is not recommended in areas with less than 12 inches of snow, and trash should be carried home or placed in dumpsters or trashcans. Owners should also keep pets on a leash and clean up their waste.
The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway facilities and parking area at 2525 Kyle Canyon Road are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The facility is closed on Christmas Day and may be closed during weather events. Public restroom facilities are available in Kyle Canyon at the Cliff Rose Trailhead across the traffic circle from the visitor gateway and in Lee Canyon at Sawmill Picnic Area.
Whatever the weather looks like, Mount Charleston is the perfect place to make winter memories. To make sure you have the best time, it's important to stay safe. Dress in layers to stay warm, wear the right gear, and check the weather and trail conditions before you head out. Always ski or ride within your ability, stay aware of your surroundings, and remember to drink water—even in the cold. With a little preparation, you can have an amazing time on the mountain and stay safe at the same time!
———
This announcement was adapted from a press release put out by the Mount Charleston Winter Alliance. The Winter Alliance promotes public safety during the winter months when Kyle Canyon and Lee Canyon see large spikes in visitation. Mount Charleston Fire and Rescue is a partner in the effort in addition to these entities: Clark County, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (Metro), Lee Canyon Ski Resort, Mt. Charleston Lodge, National Weather Service, Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP), and U.S. Forest Service.
