Roads and Transportation

Winter Travel Advice

Chains, my baby's got me locked up in chains
And they ain't the kind that you can see.
Whoa, it's chains of love got a hold on me. Yeah!
Chains, well I can't break away from these chains,
Can't run around 'cause I'm not free.
Whoa, these chains of love won't let me be. Yeah!
Now believe me when I tell you I think you're fine.
I'd like to hold you, but, darling,
I'm imprisoned by these Chains, my baby's got me locked up in chains,
And they ain't the kind that you can see.
Whoa, it's chains of love got a hold on me . . . CAROL KING, 1962

Carol King knows chains. You should too.

Between October and May, vehicles to Big Bear MUST carry tire chains. We do not recommend the cheap kind, they break. Depending on road conditions, R1 through R4 chain restrictions may be in place for either SR 18, SR 38 or SR 330.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officials may stop you from coming up the mountain or require you to put on your chains first. You may not be allowed to travel up the mountain without them or be required to put them on before you do. The roads may be closed with only emergency vehicle access. Know before you go – check Caltrans Quick Map.

Be courteous to California Highway Patrol and CalTrans workers – they are there to keep the roads and YOU safe! Always allow extra travel time during inclement weather.

Be patient, go slow and do not tailgate! More About Chains

Mountain Transit – It’s Cheap and Easy to Use

Once in Big Bear, reduce traffic and your stress level by hopping on a Mountain Transit bus. Lots of routes and bus stops. Plan Your Trip.

By all means, don’t drink and drive, or fire up a doobie and drive. Instead, take Dial a Ride.

It's the Mountains

Our winters require special attention to the weather and road conditions.