Snow expected Monday; visitors urged to check conditions and prepare for winter travel
(Las Vegas, February 12, 2026) – Visitors planning recreational activities during the Presidents’ Day 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, except at Lee Canyon Ski Resort. Snow showers are expected Monday and throughout next week, which may affect road conditions. Before traveling to the mountains, visitors are encouraged to check the latest weather and road reports and consider postponing their trip until roads have been plowed to ensure safe travel.
Mountain weather can change quickly, so preparation is key. For the latest forecast, visit the National Weather Service or Mt. Charleston Weather. For real-time driving conditions, chain requirements, and road closures, call 511 within Nevada or visit www.nvroads.com. Law enforcement officials urge travelers to comply with highway reader boards on U.S. Route 95 and Nevada State Routes 156 (Lee Canyon Road) and 157 (Kyle Canyon Road). Failure to follow traction and chain requirements can lead to accidents, stuck vehicles, and citations. For detailed traction and chain requirements, visit https://bit.ly/NDOTTractionandChainRequirements.
In case 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.
When traveling to the SMNRA, start with a full tank of gas as there are no gas stations on the mountain, and pack essential items such as tire chains, tow strap, cell phone, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, snow shovel, blankets or sleeping bags, first aid kit, compass, maps, sand or kitty litter for traction, spare batteries, non-perishable food, and water.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, dress in layers suitable for winter conditions and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid trespassing on private property or entering closed areas and remember that sledding is safest in locations with at least 12 inches of snow. Help protect the environment by packing out your trash or using designated dumpsters and keep pets on a leash while cleaning up after them.
Hikers should prepare for variable conditions, from dry paths to black ice, slush and deep snow. Waterproof boots and traction devices are essential, with snowshoes for deep snow and micro-spikes for packed ice. Trekking poles are highly recommended for added balance and stability.
Because SMNRA is a popular destination that attracts thousands of visitors during holiday weekends, travelers should arrive early and be patient. Carpooling is encouraged; however, ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are not recommended due to limited cell service and heavy traffic.
To ensure public safety, the Nevada Highway Patrol and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police monitor traffic, parking, and road conditions in Kyle and Lee Canyons. Delays and periodic road closures may occur, so obey all posted parking signs. Illegally parked vehicles may be fined and towed. In areas where roadside parking is permitted, make sure all tires are to the right of the white line to keep lanes clear for emergency vehicles.
For those seeking developed winter sports, Lee Canyon Ski Resort is currently open for the season, thanks to 59 inches of natural snowfall, supplemented 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. Lift tickets, rentals and private lessons can be purchased in advance at www.leecanyonlv.com . Visitors coming for lunch on the deck or a scenic chair ride do not need a reservation.
Lee Canyon also manages several recreation areas, including McWilliams Campground, Old Mill Picnic Area, Sawmill Trailhead, and Foxtail Snow Play Area. Old Mill typically opens on weekends and holidays, while Foxtail operates on weekends and holidays when there is at least 12 inches of snow. Currently, Foxtail and Old Mill do not have sufficient snow for winter activities, but Old Mill remains open for picnicking. For the latest updates, visit the resort’s website.
The Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway facilities and parking area at 2525 Kyle Canyon Road are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily but may be closed during weather events. Public restroom facilities are available in Kyle Canyon at the Cliff Rose Trailhead, across the traffic circle from the visitor gateway, and in Lee Canyon at the 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.