In our area, it can snow on and off from Thanksgiving through mid-April.  Usually the snow melts in between snowfalls.  Occasionally, there are snowstorms blanketing us with a foot or two, and rarely, up to 6 feet.  The snow here is often frozen crusty from early morning to about 10: am, then softening to wet and heavy in the warmth of the day.  Some years, rain may pack it down some, then overnight it freezes pretty solid. 

Hard-packed snow and ice on the road surface usually affords better traction than slippery wet snow.  Speeds must be kept low on the many curves to get here; on a slippery, icey or slushy surface, downhills and curves often require a crawl in 2nd or even 1st gear.   Even experienced drivers sometimes slide around; how far one slides depends on ones speed. 

Because of our remoteness, we discourage winter visits by guests who don’t plan to drive a snow-storm-worthy vehicle.  Such a vehicle would be 4-wheel drive and have healthy, aggressive tires with studs or chains.  A heavier, loaded vehicle would have the best traction, but it should be able to clear the unplowed snow that remains between the tire tracks.  It would be equipped with an emergency kit consisting of a strong tow rope, a shovel, blanket or sleeping bag, warm coats, gloves, hats, water-proof boots, ready-to-eat nutrition and water, a thermos of hot chocolate (easy on the caffeine!), 2 towels, a working flashlight, magazines, your favorite pain-relievers, and a good sense of humor! 

Most cell phones cease to work shortly after leaving the Redding area and don’t work on the Big Bend Rd, except maybe on the high spots.

Our normal season is open from April 1  to  November 15.  Winter reservations must be made far in advance.
   
Because of all the preparations on our end, our policy for winter reservations is:  cancellations within 48 hours of arrival will have their deposit refunded less a $10 cancellation fee; cancellations within 24 hours of arrival will have their deposit refunded less a $25 cancellation fee; unfortunately, no-shows will lose their deposit.