Heading to Yosemite From November? Carry Tire Chains: Four-Wheel Drive and Rentals Are Not Exempt, and the Fine Can Reach $5,000
Yosemite National Park in California has entered its snowy season. The National Park Service's tire chain requirements page says visitors going anywhere in Yosemite from November through March, even those heading only to Yosemite Valley and using the free shuttle, should expect chain requirements to be in effect, and whenever chain controls are in effect, all vehicles must have chains in possession, including four-wheel drive and rental vehicles.
Controls come in three levels. Under R-1, chains must go on the drive wheels unless the vehicle is a car, pickup or SUV under 6,000 pounds with snow tires on at least two drive wheels, tread at least 6/32 of an inch deep, and no trailer. R-2 narrows the exemption to vehicles under 6,500 pounds with snow tires on all four wheels, four-wheel or all-wheel drive engaged, and no trailer. R-3 allows no exceptions: every vehicle must use chains. Many battery-electric trucks and some large electric SUVs exceed the weight limits and must chain up even at R-1 and R-2.
What counts is spelled out: chains and cables are both legal traction devices, tire socks are acceptable, and plastic devices, straps and other emergency alternatives do not meet the legal requirement. Rental companies generally do not provide chains, and rental cars are not exempt. The speed limit in chain control areas is 25 mph.
The penalties are real: failing to put on chains when required can bring a citation of up to $5,000, and drivers without chains may have to call a tow truck to supply them, at a cost of up to a few hundred dollars, a wait of several hours, and no AAA coverage. Current in-park road information is on 209-372-0200, then 1, 1. Drivers who cannot or do not want to use chains can park at a YARTS bus stop on Highway 140 and ride the bus into the park. (Source: National Park Service)
Source: National Park Service
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：装了防滑链和防滑索的轮胎。国家公园管理局图片。 / Photo: Tires fitted with chains and cables. Image from the National Park Service.
