If the status above displays R-1 or R-2, carry chains or cables in your vehicle. R-1 requires chains or snow tires on all vehicles. R-2 requires chains on all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with snow tires on all four wheels. If the road is listed as R-3, chains are required on every vehicle, with no exceptions.
Always verify these automated readings with official sources at Nevada 511 before departing.
Understanding Kingsbury Grade Conditions
Kingsbury Grade (SR-207) connects the Carson Valley to the South Lake Tahoe basin. It is a steep, winding mountain pass that climbs significantly from the valley floor to the summit. Weather conditions change rapidly between the base and the top of the pass.
While the summit is located at 7,338 ft at Daggett Summit / Tramway, the lower sections of the grade, such as the Kingsbury RWIS location at 5,380 ft, often experience different precipitation types and temperatures. A rainstorm at the base frequently becomes a snowstorm by the time a vehicle reaches the summit.
Monitoring the Pass
Use the SR-207 webcams to view current visibility and road surface conditions. The Daggett Summit camera provides the most accurate view of the highest point on the route. If the camera shows snow accumulation or ice, expect chain controls to be implemented shortly, even if they are not yet active on the official feed.
Alternate Routes
If SR-207 closes due to weather, accidents, or construction, the primary alternatives to reach South Lake Tahoe from the Carson Valley are:
- US-50: Located to the north, this is the main highway connecting Carson City to South Lake Tahoe via Spooner Summit.
- SR-88: Located to the south, this route connects the Minden/Gardnerville area to the South Lake Tahoe basin via Woodfords and Carson Pass.
Check all road conditions in the region before selecting an alternate route, as storms often impact multiple passes simultaneously. When driving these routes during winter months, keep an emergency kit in the vehicle, including water, blankets, and a flashlight, regardless of the current chain control status.