Glacier Point Road in Yosemite has been closed to wheeled traffic/file photo

Winter snows have prompted the closure of the Tioga and Glacier Point roads to wheeled traffic in Yosemite National Park.

The Tioga Road is a seasonal road that closes each season, based on weather and road conditions. The road is closed from Crane Flat junction to park line at Tioga Pass, 5 miles west of Lee Vining and US 395. The Glacier Point Road is also closed for the season, from the Yosemite Ski and Snow Board Area to Glacier Point. This section of road closes each season, based on weather and road conditions.

A series of winter storms is expected to pass through the Yosemite area through the weekend. Snow and rain are expected throughout the park. Motorists should be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible delays.

Yosemite National Park is open year-round with snow removal on all other roads within the park. Highway 120 West, Highway 140, and Highway 41 remain open year-round and provide access to Yosemite Valley. The Hetch Hetchy Road is open for day use throughout the winter months.

All roads within the park are subject to chain control or temporary closures due to hazardous driving conditions. All motorists are required to carry tire chains, even if their car is equipped with four-wheel drive, while driving in the park during the winter months. Chain control may go into effect at any time. The following chain control guidelines exist:

* “R-1” requires vehicles to have mud and snow tires or tire chains

* “R-2” requires vehicles to have 4-Wheel drive or tire chains

* “R-3” requires all vehicles to use tire chains

For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, call 209-372-0200.