State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake closing for winter

PHOENIX – Due to the forecast calling for snow, ADOT will be closing the highway leading to Hawley Lake for the winter on Thursday, Nov. 29.

SR 473, along with state routes 261 and 273 in the White Mountains, normally closes on Dec. 31, but weather can prompt an earlier closure.

State Route 67, the highway that leads to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, is scheduled to close for the winter on Monday, Dec. 3. ADOT doesn’t clear snow from SR 67 during the winter since North Rim visitor accommodations are closed. US 89A remains open during the winter.

ADOT reminds motorists heading into snow country to drive with caution and follow this advice:

• Don’t let GPS and navigation apps replace common sense. When a highway is closed, a suggested alternate route involving an unpaved, unplowed road can lead you into danger.
• Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, blankets, water and snacks.
• Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip. Never pass a snowplow.
• Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop or to avoid hazards.
• Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
• Check weather and road conditions before you travel. Let someone know your route.
• Bring a small bag of sand (or cat litter) for wheel traction.

Additional information on winter driving is available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Before heading out on the roads, drivers are encouraged to call 511 or visit ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The website features camera images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.