Spring Mountains National Recreation Area has Insufficient Snow for Safe Winter Play over Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday
(Issued by the US Forest Service – Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest)
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 16, 2026 – Visitors planning to enjoy recreation activities over the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend should be aware that the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area (SMNRA), commonly known as Mt. Charleston, currently lacks sufficient snow for safe winter activities. Furthermore, no snowfall is anticipated in the next five days. Weather forecast indicates daytime temperatures will be in the low to mid-50s, while nighttime temperatures are expected to drop to the low to mid-30s.
Lee Canyon is open for the season, thanks to 54 inches of natural snowfall complemented by man-made snow. All five lifts have been operating for most of the season, offering terrain for every ability level, including top-to-bottom terrain park features off the Bluebird lift. Guests are encouraged to purchase daily lift tickets, rentals, and private lessons in advance at www.leecanyonlv.com. Visitors coming up for lunch on the deck or a scenic chair ride do not need a reservation.
During the winter months, the resort manages several recreation areas in Lee Canyon, including McWilliams Campground, Old Mill Picnic Area, Sawmill Trailhead, and the Foxtail Snow Play Area. The Old Mill Picnic Area typically opens on weekends and holidays, while Foxtail operates on weekends and holidays when there is at least 12 inches of snow. For the most up-to-date information, visitors should check the resort’s website. Currently, Foxtail and Old Mill do not have sufficient snow for winter activities.
Even without snow, the SMNRA is still a great place to recreate this winter, but a holiday weekend can bring thousands of cars to the area. Go early, be patient, and abide by traffic laws. Also, consider carpooling with friends and family to the mountain and NOT using ride share services (e.g. Uber or Lyft), because limited cell service and traffic may not allow for pickup for return rides. It is also important to leave earlier than you might in the summer months to allow enough time to enjoy your chosen activity before daylight fades and colder temperatures set in, potentially making it unsafe to continue.
To prioritize public safety and emergency access during the busy winter season, the Nevada Highway Patrol and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department monitor traffic and parking in Kyle and Lee canyons. Access may be regulated, and visitors should anticipate potential delays or periodic closures on Nevada State Routes 156 (Lee Canyon Road), 157 (Kyle Canyon Road), and 158 (Deer Creek Road). Travelers are encouraged to check for real-time road conditions and chain requirements by calling 511 or visiting www.nvroads.com before heading out.
It is important to abide by all posted parking signs when parking in Kyle and Lee canyons. Illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed and towed when parking on the mountain. In areas where roadside parking is permitted, ensure all tires are to the right of the white line to keep the lane clear for emergency vehicles.
In the unlikely event of a roadway emergency, dial *NHP (*647) or 911 to report a serious accident. Since cell phone service is limited, public phones are located on Lee Canyon Road across from Lee Meadows, Old Mill Picnic Area, and Foxtail Snow Play Area. Local 702 and 911 calls from these phones are free.
Hikers on the SMNRA should prepare for everything from dry paths to black ice, slush, and deep powder. Waterproof boots and traction devices are essential. Use snowshoes for deep snow and micro-spikes for packed ice to ensure solid footing. Trekking poles are highly recommended for added balance and stability across changing terrain.
Regardless of your planned activity, all visitors should arrive prepared. When traveling to the SMNRA, visitors should start with a full tank of gas because there are no gas stations on the mountain. Always carry with you: tire chains, tow strap, cell phone, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, snow shovel, blankets/sleeping bags, first aid kit, compass, maps, bag of sand/kitty litter for traction, spare batteries, non-perishable foods, and water.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable time on the mountain, here are a few suggestions for your trip. Please dress in appropriate layers for winter conditions and be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid trespassing on private property or entering closed areas. As a reminder, sledding is best enjoyed in areas with at least 12 inches of snow. Help us protect the environment by packing out your trash or using the designated dumpsters. Finally, please keep pets on a leash and clean up their waste during your visit.
“Beyond general mountain etiquette, fire safety remains a top priority,” said Chief Jason Douglas of the Mt. Charleston Fire Protection District. Douglas reminds the public that fire restrictions are always in effect here. You cannot have a campfire within one mile of any homes (including Kyle and Lee canyons, Cold Creek, and others listed on signs).
"If you start a warming fire, it must stay small and attended," Douglas added. "Always have water and a shovel nearby. Before you walk away, the fire must be totally extinguished - douse it, stir it into mud, and make sure it is cool to the touch." Learn more fire prevention tips.
The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway facilities and parking at 2525 Kyle Canyon Road are open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Public restrooms are in Kyle Canyon at the Cliff Rose Trailhead (across from the visitor gateway) and in Lee Canyon at Sawmill Picnic Area.
Anyone planning a winter trip to the SMNRA can get area-specific weather, driving, and snow details at www.gomtcharleston.com/snow-season/. For real-time updates and safety tips, visit: www.facebook.com/GoMtCharleston; www.instagram.com/gomtcharleston/; or https://x.com/GoMtCharleston.
The Mt. Charleston Winter Alliance promotes public safety during the winter months when Kyle Canyon and Lee Canyon see large spikes in visitation. Agency partners include: USDA Forest Service, Clark County, Lee Canyon Ski Resort, Nevada Highway Patrol (NHP), Mount Charleston Fire Protection District, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (Metro), Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), Clark County Fire, National Weather Service, Go Mt Charleston, and Mt. Charleston Lodge.