Remote Surveillance Trailer in Truckee, CA

For five straight days, snow fell with relentless force in the Sierra, piling up faster than crews could clear it and transforming Truckee-Tahoe into a winter wonderland snow globe. By the time skies began to clear, the storm had delivered one of the most significant snowfall events in decades — and secured a place in the record books.

The Central Sierra Snow Lab reported that 111 inches of snow fell over five days between Feb. 16 and Feb. 20. The total marks the most snow recorded there during any five-day period since April 1982 and the third-highest five-day total since record-keeping began in 1970.

The lab, operated by University of California, Berkeley, sits at about 6,900 feet near Donner Pass and is widely cited for its long-running snowfall and snowpack measurements in the Sierra Nevada.

CSSL officials noted that only two other five-day stretches have recorded more snow since digitized records began: 113 inches in December 1970 and 118.5 inches in April 1982.

“At this point, the snowpack is basically building an extension onto the lab,” the Snow Lab wrote on Facebook during live storm updates. “Send snacks. Or a shovel. Or both.”

Weather Outlook

Despite the historic totals, a warmer storm cycle brought periods of heavy rain

to Tahoe, leaving slushy conditions at area resorts and disappointing many recreationists who had hoped the powder would stick around.

Luckily, forecasters say snow showers are possible again Wednesday afternoon into the evening. Snow levels are expected to start around 7,000 feet Wednesday morning before falling to about 5,000 feet by evening, according to OpenSnow forecaster Bryan Allegretto.

“A dry pattern is expected to set up starting Thursday, which could last into the third week of March,” he said.

TRUCKEE, calif. – Winter has arrived with a vengeance. A series of cold winter storms are expected to bring heavy snow, gusty winds and hazardous travel conditions to the greater Tahoe region beginning Monday and continuing through at least Thursday, with additional storms possible into next week.

Here is a breakdown of the latest forecast from OpenSnow and current road conditions in Truckee.

Heavier snowfall is forecast to push into the region Monday and Tuesday, with snow showers lingering into Wednesday and more snow expected Thursday. Additional snow showers are possible Friday and Saturday, though some forecast models suggest a brief break before another potential storm series arrives Sunday night and continues through Feb. 25 or 26.

“Heavy snow is expected at times Monday through Thursday, with the heaviest snow Monday through Tuesday night,” OpenSnow forecaster Bryan Allegretto wrote. “Strong winds Monday night through Tuesday will cause blowing snow and very low visibility.”

Snow levels are expected to start around 5,000 feet Monday before dropping below 1,000 feet at times. For much of the storm cycle, snow levels are forecast to range between 2,000 and 3,000 feet, bringing snow to lower elevations, including foothill roadways and parts of western Nevada.

“Carry chains and be prepared for winter driving conditions and very slow travel through Thursday night,” Allegretto wrote. “The highway could close at times, especially with the heavy snowfall rates Monday–Tuesday and strong winds Monday night into Tuesday.”

Travelers heading to the Tahoe Basin this weekend should also prepare for potential storms and delays.

“If you plan to drive up to the Tahoe Basin this upcoming weekend, be prepared for possible storms and travel delays coming and going, but maybe a better chance going Sunday night,” Allegretto said.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Northeast California, the Greater Lake Tahoe region and Mono County in effect from Sunday, Feb. 15, through 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18.

“Strong winds Tuesday may cause near-zero visibility and whiteout conditions in the Sierra at times,” the warning states.

Chain controls in effect

As of 10 a.m. Monday, multiple chain controls were in place in the Truckee area:

Under R-2 restrictions, chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. Those vehicles must still carry chains in chain control areas.

MAX restrictions require chains for all trucks, and holding traffic indicates all vehicles are being stopped at chain control checkpoints due to weather or incidents.

Authorities are urging people to check road conditions before traveling and allow extra time for mountain travel throughout the week.

California’s Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to hulking snowy mountains, scenic lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, grizzly bears, mountain lions, mule deers, and hardy sequoia trees. But amidst this nature-rich and historic region of the United States, you’ll also find towns that will put you at ease with their lackadaisical pace and vibe, perfect for travelers looking for an escape and adventure into nature, to forget the worries of modern living. Here are 8 slow-paced towns of California’s Sierra Nevada that will recharge your batteries and put you at ease.

Truckee

Whether you prefer outdoor activities in winter or summer, Truckee offers an array of options for outdoor lovers. Ski resorts like Northstar California, Tahoe Donner, and Boreal Mountain provide diverse slopes for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snow-tubing. Additionally, the high Sierra location features scenic winter trails such as Donner Summit Canyon and Johnson Canyon Overlook, ideal for snowshoeing.

In the summertime, you can hike through Truckee's beautiful natural landscapes filled with pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping mountain views. Truckee River Regional Park and Tahoe National Forest are popular choices for scenic hikes, or if you’re fascinated with the infamous Donner Party, you can visit the Donner Memorial State Park which houses the Emigrant Trail Museum and The Pioneer Monument.

Oakhurst

This charming mountain town is steeped in the history of the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing insight into the lives of 19th-century farmers and merchants who influenced the area. At Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park, visitors can see two well-preserved homes, schoolrooms, and jails from that era. The two houses showcase distinctive architectural styles typical of the region.

You can then mix up some nature sightseeing with history by riding on a vintage steam train at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which offers a unique way to take in the beauty of the Sierra Mountains. You also can’t leave Oakhurst without taking a scenic drive through the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, one of the largest sequoia groves in the world, with over 500 larger-than-life redwoods.

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes lies east of Mammoth Mountain within the scenic Inyo National Forest, making it a popular spot for campers. It features over 800 campsites, where visitors can enjoy the scenery of wildflower meadows, clear lakes, and pine forests. Mammoth Mountain also offers excellent winter outdoor activities, receiving an average snowfall of more than 9 meters. Skiers and snowboarders will find great runs like Gremlin’s Gulch, Wipeout Chutes, and Paranoid Flats, while the mountain also supports snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.

When it’s time to take a break from the outdoors, you can indulge in the highly lauded beers of the Mammoth Brewing Company. The company is 2500m above sea level and ferments the highest-altitude beers on the west coast, using straight-from-the-mountain alpine water.

Grass Valley

This town, at the core of historic California Gold Country, was home to the Empire Mine and North Star Mine, two of California’s most lucrative gold rush mines. To explore its rich history, visit the Empire Mine State Historic Park, which features many original mine buildings, the owner's mansion, and restored gardens. Additionally, the park offers fourteen miles of forested trails, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

If that’s not enough history for you, you can also visit the North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum, and the Grass Valley Museum, or take a relaxing stroll through Grass Valley’s historic downtown. Its downtown core has scores of 19th-century buildings like the Miner’s Hotel, Van’s Opera House, and The Owl Grill and Saloon. It will also not disappoint when it comes to choices for shopping and dining.

Sonora

Sonora’s closeness to Yosemite National Park, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, and Columbia State Park makes it a favored spot for outdoor lovers. In fall, it becomes an ideal location for a relaxed weekend getaway, with downtown streets painted in gold, red, and orange hues. Visitors can enjoy browsing antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques amid this scenic setting.

Well-preserved 19th-century structures such as the Tuolumne County Courthouse, Sonora’s Opera Hall, and the City Hotel give Sonora an Old West ambiance, drawing numerous Hollywood television and film productions. The town center features a 3-mile natural trail named Dragoon Gulch Trail, ideal for leisurely walks with family or couples looking for a romantic scenic view of the city and nearby mountains.

Mariposa

It’s easy to overlook Mariposa when heading directly to Yosemite National Park. Nonetheless, exploring this charming town feels like stepping into an Old Western gold rush scene. Numerous historic buildings in its downtown area, including the Mariposa County Courthouse, St. Joseph Catholic Church, and Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail, originate from the 1850s. Its streets still follow the original grid design established by founder and former California senator John C. Fremont.

To truly experience Mariposa’s pioneering history, visit the Mariposa Museum and History Center. This award-winning small museum displays artifacts from the gold rush and offers recreations of old homes and shops from that period. Although the town is small, it is rich in history and culture and deserves to be a highlighted stop.

Bishop

Bishop attracts both passionate climbers and thrill-seekers, but it’s also perfect for tourists seeking relaxation. The Owens River Gorge and the Happy and Buttermilks bouldering spots showcase top-tier crags and boulders that challenge climbers of all skill levels. While pushing their limits vertically, climbers can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Sierra Mountains surrounding them.

Keough Hot Springs is an ideal destination for travelers looking for relaxation and inspiration, soothing tired muscles and easing anxious minds. It provides campsites for tents and RVs, with pools open year-round. After enjoying some pampering and feeling refreshed, visitors can explore shops, restaurants, bars, breweries, and murals in Bishop's downtown area.

South Lake Tahoe

A trip to Sierra Nevada isn't complete without a refreshing dip in the clear, sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe boasts numerous gorgeous beaches, set amidst towering ponderosa pines, majestic California redwoods, and breathtaking mountain scenery. In summer, the waters warm up beautifully, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. If you're looking for a relaxing break from the water, you can enjoy one of the popular lake tours on yachts, paddlewheel boats, or catamarans, creating wonderful memories along the way.

South Lake Tahoe is also steeped in the history of America’s Gilded Age and the Tallac Historic Site will give you a glimpse into what life was like during this vibrant time in history. When it's time for food, dining options like The Fresh Ketch and The Brewery at Lake Tahoe will not disappoint.

The days of the California Gold Rush are long gone but today, the Sierra Nevada promises a different kind of wealth. The small slow-paced towns surrounding this gorgeous region provide something even better than gold, peace of mind. They remind us that the finer things in life are found in nature’s abundant beauty and communities that value tranquility, history, and adventure in the great outdoors. So, the next time you’re feeling blue, take a trip to the Sierra Nevada and get in the splendor of one of these slow-paced towns.

Snow started covering the Sierra Nevada on Tuesday afternoon, and as is often the case, Donner Pass has gotten the worst of it.

When you've lived in the nearby town of Truckee for over 50 years, like Mike Bosco, chances are you've seen more than your fair share of bad drivers over the summit.

"They drive way too fast and just because they have four-wheel drive, they think they're invincible, and they follow people way too close," said Bosco, who's lived on and off in the area since 1968.

Bosco said he's seen it all when it comes to bad drivers and winter weather.

"[This] January is one of the warmest Januaries I've ever seen because I've been just working in my shorts," he said.

Bosco said he's a little skeptical we'll see a lot of accumulation. But if we do, he recommended taking advantage of the fresh snow while you can.

"You know, I go skiing for a few hours every day, and then if I have interior work to do, I would do that in the afternoons," he said.

Speaking of skiing, one Bay Area man has been skiing in the area for about five years.

When asked how he prepares, Andrew Bolt of San Francisco said, "For skiing, it's the clothing, of course. For the car, just having the chains and just watching the forecast. When I head back to the bay, just checking the road conditions before I leave."

Bolt said he's never had to use his chains, but he doesn't venture this way without them. He also makes sure to top off his car.

"I've seen horror stories with Donner Pass. So you always have to hope that you have enough in the tank to ride it out and stay warm," he said.

Bolt said he's got a unique challenge in the winter with his electric car. The cold weather isn't kind to his battery, and therefore his mileage.

"Once it gets below 40 [degrees], it's a pretty significant drop off. Probably 20% at least," Bolt said.

You can check Caltrans QuickMap for the latest conditions over Donner.

Whatever brings you over the passes, don't forget to pack your chains, as well as your patience.

Truckee, California – A pattern change beginning Sunday will bring multiple days of mountain snow and travel impacts across Northern California.

According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, showers and Sierra snow will develop late Sunday and continue through midweek. The greatest impacts are expected from Tuesday into early Wednesday, when snowfall rates increase and travel conditions deteriorate at higher elevations.

Forecast guidance shows widespread snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches across Sierra passes, with localized totals of 12 to 18 inches possible along the crest. Snowfall will primarily affect elevations above 6,000 to 7,000 feet Monday, with snow levels lowering to around 5,000 to 6,000 feet Tuesday and Wednesday.

These conditions are likely to impact major mountain corridors, including Interstate 80 near Donner Summit, U.S. Highway 50 over Echo Summit, and State Route 88 through Carson Pass. Chain controls are likely during periods of heavier snow, and travel delays should be expected, particularly overnight and during the morning commute.

The Weather Service classifies the overall impact as moderate, citing slick roads, reduced visibility, and longer-than-normal travel times. Motorists are encouraged to monitor Caltrans QuickMap for the latest road conditions and chain requirements.

While valley locations will mainly see rain, cooler temperatures could contribute to slick conditions during heavier showers. No widespread flooding is expected at this time, but wet roads may slow travel in urban areas.

Officials advise travelers to plan ahead, carry chains when heading into the mountains, and allow extra time to reach destinations. Those commuting for work or school, especially early morning travelers and young workers heading into mountain communities, should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Snow showers are expected to gradually taper late Wednesday into early Thursday, though lingering travel impacts may persist in higher terrain.