Where to Play in Snow in San Diego

Not only will roads be slick but the threat of getting fined is very real so plan ahead

If you're planning a visit to the fresh snow in San Diego's East County, you need to be aware of a few things.

Chains may be required if you want to get up on the Sunrise Highway or anywhere near the top of Mount Laguna, Mount Cuyamaca or Palomar Mountain

You'll also need an "Adventure Permit" if you plan on parking for any length of time to go sledding. 

Without it, you may end up with a citation and up to a $100 fine. 

The permits cost $5 and can be purchased at the Lodge.  The Laguna Mountain Lodge is a good destination.  The owners know the mountain, the best places to go "legally" go sledding and they have oodles of snow clothing and equipment for sale. Map to the lodge.

If you plan on just "winging it" and figure you'll stop and sled at the first snow-covered hill you see, again, it could end up being a pretty expensive trip. 

You can get fined without the proper permit. 

You can also get fined if you don't park your vehicle completely off the road and are a hindrance to either traffic or snowplows. 

You can also get fined if you park on private property without permission.  It doesn't matter if other people are doing it.  It's not uncommon to see a whole line of vehicles being cited for breaking the law.

Also,  be sure you're ready for winter weather and winter-weather-driving.  The chains are a must and make sure your vehicle is up to the trip.  Chances are your vehicle is not used to freezing weather and you're probably not used to driving in ice and snow.  Extra caution is necessary on all counts. 

You'll need extra, dry clothing as well, especially socks, shoes or boots; a fully charged cell phone for emergencies and plenty of trash bags. 

You can always tell how much snow the mountains get by all the trash you find when it melts. The rangers ask that you please take out of the park everything you brought it.

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