Winter Driving on I-5 Through Dunsmuir and Mount Shasta: A Practical Guide
Winter Driving on I-5 Through Dunsmuir and Mount Shasta: A Practical Guide
The stretch of I-5 between Redding and the Oregon line is one of the most beautiful drives in California, and in winter it is also one of the most demanding. The highway climbs out of the Sacramento Valley, follows the upper Sacramento River canyon past Dunsmuir, and crosses higher ground around Mount Shasta and Weed. Storms can move in fast. Here is what we have learned from years of watching travelers come in off the snowy highway.
Check conditions before you leave
Conditions can change between Redding and Dunsmuir in under an hour. Before you set out:
- Caltrans QuickMap (quickmap.dot.ca.gov) shows chain controls, closures and highway cameras in real time.
- Caltrans road information line: 1-800-427-7623 gives current highway conditions by route number.
- The National Weather Service forecast for the Mount Shasta area tells you if a storm is coming in overnight.
If you are heading north into Oregon, check ODOT's TripCheck for the Siskiyou Summit as well.
Understand chain controls
When Caltrans sets chain controls you will see signs and checkpoints. In general:
- R1: chains or snow tires required on the drive axle, except four-wheel-drive vehicles with snow tires.
- R2: chains required on all vehicles except four-wheel or all-wheel drive with snow tires on all four wheels.
- R3: chains required on all vehicles, no exceptions.
Carry chains that fit your tires even if you drive an AWD vehicle, and practice putting them on in your driveway, not on the shoulder in the dark. Chain installers often work the checkpoints during storms, but have cash and expect a wait.
Pack for a slow day
A winter delay on I-5 can turn a four-hour drive into an eight-hour one. Keep these in the car:
- A full tank, or at least half a tank at all times
- Warm layers, gloves, a blanket and a flashlight
- Water and snacks
- A phone charger and an ice scraper
Drive the canyon with care
Through the canyon around Dunsmuir the highway curves and shaded sections stay icy long after the sun comes out. Slow down before curves and bridges, leave extra room behind trucks, and never use cruise control on wet or icy pavement.
Know where to take a break
The best thing you can do on a long winter drive is stop before you are tired. Dunsmuir sits right on I-5, so it is an easy place to get off, warm up, check the road report and eat a real meal before the climb past Mount Shasta. We see a lot of drivers who planned to push through and are glad they did not.
If you have kids or a dog with you, our guide to dog-friendly things to do in Dunsmuir has a few easy places to stretch your legs.
Packing a winter car kit
Even a short delay on a mountain highway can mean sitting in the cold. Keep these in the car from fall through spring:
- Chains that fit your tires, plus gloves and a kneeling pad or mat for putting them on.
- Warm layers, a blanket and a hat for everyone in the car.
- Water and snacks.
- A flashlight with fresh batteries.
- An ice scraper and snow brush.
- A phone charger.
- A full tank. Fill up in Redding or Mount Shasta before long stretches.
Driving tips on snowy grades
Slow down well before curves, leave extra space and avoid sudden braking. Use lower gears on downhill grades. Watch for black ice on bridges and shaded spots in the canyon, which can stay icy after the rest of the road dries. If visibility drops, it is okay to pull off at a safe exit and wait it out.
When to stop and wait
If chain controls go up, conditions are worsening or you are tired, taking a break is the smart move. Dunsmuir is right off the highway, and a warm meal while a storm passes beats white-knuckle driving. Check Caltrans QuickMap again before you get back on the road.
Warm food for cold days
Our barbecue menu and burger menu are made for cold-weather appetites. Read about why travelers keep coming back, and see what else is near Yaks.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need chains on I-5 near Mount Shasta?
When Caltrans sets chain controls, yes, unless your vehicle meets the exemption for that level. Carry chains from late fall through spring.
Where can I check I-5 road conditions?
Use Caltrans QuickMap or call 1-800-427-7623 for California highways.
What are the hours at Yaks on the 5?
We are open 11:30 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Holiday hours can change, so call (530) 678-3517 to confirm.
Where can I check I-5 conditions near Mount Shasta?
Use Caltrans QuickMap or call the Caltrans road information line at 1-800-427-7623 for current conditions and chain controls.
Is Dunsmuir a good place to wait out a storm?
Dunsmuir is right off I-5, so it is an easy place to stop, eat and check conditions before continuing.
Plan your stop at Yaks
Yaks on the 5 is at 4917 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, just off I-5. We are open 11:30 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Call (530) 678-3517 if you want to check anything before you drive, and browse the full menu to pick your burger before you get here.
Winter tip: in winter our seating is indoors, so it is a warm place to wait out a chain control while you check QuickMap.
