LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Nevada State Police worked to make sure drivers heading up to Mt. Charleston on Thursday were safe to take on the snow and icy conditions.
They closed Kyle and Lee Canyon roads to drivers who didn't have snow chains or Four Wheel Drive with snow tires. Many stopped after getting turned around to put on chains, but others didn't have them. That led to lines of cars at times headed back down the mountain.
Mary Kielar reports from Mt. Charleston:
As of 3:45 p.m. Thursday, Kyle Canyon Road (State Route 157) had reopened, a Nevada State Police spokesperson confirmed to Channel 13.
A spokesperson for Lee Canyon resort tells Channel 13 they were fully staffed and ready to open for the day but "State Route 156 (Lee Canyon Road), which is managed and maintained by NDOT, had not been cleared." Guests who bought a lift ticket but weren't able to reach the resort are encouraged to contact Lee Canyon at info@leecanyonlv.com, the spokesperson noted.
NDOT responded after Channel 13 reached out with the resort's claim. Kelsey McFarland, NDOT's public information office, said the conditions Thursday morning created a "very active response for maintenance crews."
She added that NDOT made the decision with Nevada State Police to temporarily close parts of State Routes 156 and 157. "These decisions were made to allow crews to address hazardous conditions and remove vehicles from the roadway so snow removal operations could be conducted safely."
Some families decided to stick around and enjoy a chilly but sunny day together before leaving the area.
"We’re still having fun," said Sally Truhatte, who smiled as her daughters made snow angels and took videos on their phones in the snow.
She said, "It’s windy, but it’s still beautiful," pointing us to the small snowman the family built.
Nevada State Police posted the road closure notice on their X account Thursday. If you're curious about current road conditions, you can check there as well.
#TrafficAlert State Route 157(Kyle Canyon Road) has been completely shut down, due to inclement weather conditions. Also, State Route 156(Lee Canyon Rd) from State Route 158(Deer Creek Rd) is requiring CHAINS OR SNOW TIRES. Please avoid area and choose another time to visit this… pic.twitter.com/jxMbuXyGsG
— Nevada State Police (@NVStatePolice) January 8, 2026
