SR 473

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter season Dec. 4

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter season Dec. 4

I-17 101 traffic interchange

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter season Dec. 4

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter season Dec. 4

November 29, 2023

ADOT also sets closure dates for three White Mountains highways

PHOENIX – As happens every winter because of heavy snowfall in the area, the Arizona Department of Transportation will close State Route 67 between Jacob Lake (US 89A) and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park on Monday, Dec. 4. 

The highway reopens each spring, usually around mid-May, along with visitor accommodations at the North Rim. US 89A will remain open at the junction with SR 67.

ADOT also has set winter closure dates for these state highways in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, though snowfall may result in earlier closures:

  • State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake: Thursday, Dec. 7

  • State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake: Friday, Dec. 29

  • State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake: Friday, Dec. 29

In addition, ADOT recently closed the upper unpaved section of State Route 366, which ascends Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona. This regular winter closure begins one-half mile past the Coronado National Forest’s Shannon Campground, at the end of the pavement. 

Before heading out this winter, drivers should 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 has tips for traveling in areas with snow at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

ADOT reopens White Mountains-area highways for summer season

ADOT reopens White Mountains-area highways for summer season

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT reopens White Mountains-area highways for summer season

ADOT reopens White Mountains-area highways for summer season

April 20, 2023

SR 273 and SR 261 lead to Sunrise Park, Big Lake

PHOENIX – With springtime and warmer weather here, two White Mountains-area state highways reopened Thursday, April 20, after being closed for the winter, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

State Route 261 runs from State Route 260 near Eagar to Big Lake, while State Route 273 goes from SR 260 to Sunrise Park and Big Lake.

State Route 473, running south from SR 260 on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, is scheduled to reopen on Friday, April 21.

ADOT encourages motorists to enjoy the mountains this summer and return home safely by observing the following tips:

  • Make sure you and your passengers are buckled in.
  • Check your vehicle before you go; proper tire pressure is important.
  • Be patient (don’t speed and don’t follow other vehicles too closely).
  • Get an adequate amount of sleep before your trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Build some extra travel time into your schedule.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Before you leave, check for information about highway restrictions across Arizona at ADOT’s Traveler Information website, az511.gov or dial 511.

ADOT reopens highways in White Mountains after winter closures

ADOT reopens highways in White Mountains after winter closures

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT reopens highways in White Mountains after winter closures

ADOT reopens highways in White Mountains after winter closures

April 15, 2021

PHOENIX – With springtime upon us, the Arizona Department of Transportation reopened three White Mountains-area state highways Thursday, April 15, after being closed for the winter.

State Route 261 runs from State Route 260 near Eagar to Big Lake, while State Route 273 goes from SR 260 to Sunrise Park and Big Lake.

State Route 473, runs south from SR 260 on the White Mountain Apache Reservation, to Hawley Lake.

State Route 366, which leads up Mount Graham near Safford, also reopened on April 15. However, ADOT is still in the middle of a roadway repair project and drivers should continue to expect delays on SR 366 as work continues. The project is to repair damage caused during the 2017 Frye Fire on Mount Graham.

Another highway that closes for the winter, State Route 67, leading to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, is scheduled to reopen with park facilities in mid-May.

When traveling this year, please remember to do the following:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

Spring has sprung, which means you can again travel these roads

Spring has sprung, which means you can again travel these roads

SR24-1

Spring has sprung, which means you can again travel these roads

Spring has sprung, which means you can again travel these roads

By David Rookhuyzen / ADOT Communications
April 15, 2021

Snow melting. Flowers growing. The swallows returning to Capistrano. All signs of spring finally returning after months of winter. 

In the world of transportation, there is another unmistakable sign that warmer weather is here to stay: The annual reopening of state highways in northern Arizona.

Starting today several state highways leading to popular outdoor destinations have reopened including:

  • State Route 261 between Eager and Big Lake in the White Mountains
  • State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake in the White Mountains (that's the highway in the photo to the right, taken last year)
  • State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake in the White Mountains.

In addition, State Route 366, known as Swift Trail, has reopened above Shannon Campground on Mount Graham. However, ADOT is still in the middle of a roadway repair project and drivers should continue to expect delays on SR 366 as work continues.

And once spring is fully in swing, State Route 67, leading from Jacob Lake to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon will reopen. That is currently scheduled for mid-May. That's the highway in the bottom right photo, which was also taken last year.

These highways are closed in the winter months due to the significant levels of snowfall each receives. The closures also allow ADOT to best use its resources keeping more heavily traveled highways open.

To reopen state highways after a long winter's nap involves a fair amount of spring cleaning. And by spring cleaning we mean using heavy-duty snowblowers to clear the road for eager motorists. 

We welcome everyone to take a drive through high country again, but remind you to continue to be safe. If you are heading out, take normal precautions such as:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

You can find these and more summer trip safety tips in a recent blog post. 

ADOT to close state routes 366, 473 for the winter on Monday, Nov. 16

ADOT to close state routes 366, 473 for the winter on Monday, Nov. 16

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT to close state routes 366, 473 for the winter on Monday, Nov. 16

ADOT to close state routes 366, 473 for the winter on Monday, Nov. 16

November 12, 2020

PHOENIX – With the winter months rapidly approaching, the Arizona Department of Transportation will close State Route 473 in the White Mountains area and State Route 366, also known as Swift Trail, heading up Mount Graham in southern Arizona for the winter on Monday. Nov. 16.

State Route 67 leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon will close on Dec. 1, while other White Mountains area highways such as state route 261 and 273 will close by Dec. 31. These highways could close sooner depending on the weather.

ADOT closes these highways annually as part of the agency’s winter shutdown schedule due to significant amounts of snowfall these regions typically receive.

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 mobile device, 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.

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

I-17 101 traffic interchange

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

SR 67 to Grand Canyon North Rim closing for winter Tuesday, Nov. 26

November 26, 2019

PHOENIX – Because of the incoming winter storm, the Arizona Department of Transportation is closing State Route 67 to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

During the winter, ADOT closes and doesn’t clear snow from SR 67, a 43-mile highway between US 89A at Jacob Lake and the park, since North Rim visitor accommodations are shut down. After closing on Dec. 1 – or earlier when weather warrants, as in this case – SR 67 reopens each spring, usually around mid-May.

US 89A remains open during the winter, as do the Grand Canyon National Park facilities at the South Rim.

Meanwhile, State Route 473 leading from State Route 260 to lakes in the White Mountains will close for the winter Wednesday, Nov. 27, due to the incoming storm. State routes 261 and 273, also in the White Mountains, are scheduled to close no later than Dec. 31.

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, be sure to call 511 or visit ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions. 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.

State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake closing for winter

State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake closing for winter

I-17 101 traffic interchange

State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake closing for winter

State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake closing for winter

November 28, 2018

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. 

 

State Route 473 to Hawley Lake closing for the winter

State Route 473 to Hawley Lake closing for the winter

I-17 101 traffic interchange

State Route 473 to Hawley Lake closing for the winter

State Route 473 to Hawley Lake closing for the winter

November 13, 2017

PHOENIX ‒ State Route 473 leading to Hawley Lake in the White Mountains will close for the winter on Thursday, Nov. 16, at its junction with State Route 260, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The 10-mile-long highway east of Pinetop-Lakeside will remain closed until at least April 15.

Other high-country state highways that will close over the next six weeks include SR 67 leading to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. That route, traveling 43 miles south from US 89A, will close Friday, Dec. 1, unless a major snowstorm occurs before then.

With park facilities closed for the winter, ADOT doesn’t plow SR 67, which will be blocked about a half mile south of US 89A at Jacob Lake. It’s scheduled to reopen in mid-May along with North Rim lodges, campgrounds and other amenities.

State Route 64 remains open all year to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

Other winter closures include State Route 273 past Sunrise Park and State Route 261 west of Eagar, which are scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 28, unless a severe storm happens sooner.

In southeastern Arizona, the upper, unpaved portion of SR 366 that leads to Mount Graham near Safford has already closed for winter. Motorized vehicles aren’t allowed on SR 366 past a locked gate a half mile past the Coronado National Forest’s Shannon Campground, but hikers, mountain bikers and cross-country skiers can still use the area. 

State routes 366, 273 and 262 will reopen in the spring.

Tips on winter driving are available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, by calling 511 and through ADOT’s Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT. When a freeway closure or other major traffic event occurs, our free app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information directly to app users in affected areas – where possible, in advance of alternate routes.

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

ADOT set to reopen routes to lakes in White Mountains

April 11, 2017

PHOENIX – After a long winter’s nap, three state highways to lakes in the White Mountains are scheduled to reopen Thursday, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

They are: State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake; State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake; and State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake.

Another highway that closes for the winter, State Route 67, leading to the north rim of the Grand Canyon, is anticipated to reopen in mid-May.

Before heading off to enjoy the mountains, motorists should do the following:

  • Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
  • Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
  • Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
  • Get enough sleep before the trip.
  • Bring extra water and food.
  • Never drink and drive.
  • Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

State Route 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon closed for winter season

State Route 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon closed for winter season

I-17 101 traffic interchange

State Route 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon closed for winter season

State Route 67 to North Rim of Grand Canyon closed for winter season

December 1, 2015

PHOENIX ‒ The Arizona Department of Transportation has closed State Route 67 between Jacob Lake (US 89A) and the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park for the winter season effective Tuesday, Dec. 1.

ADOT doesn’t clear snow from SR 67 during the winter since North Rim visitor accommodations are closed. The highway reopens each spring, usually around mid-May. US 89A remains open during the winter.

In addition, State Route 473, a 10-mile-long highway that provides direct access to the Hawley Lake recreational area in the White Mountains region, is closed for the winter.

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

  • Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip. Never pass a snowplow.V
  • Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged cellphone, extra clothing, water and snacks.
  • Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop or to avoid hazards.
  • If stopped on the roadway, leave room for emergency vehicles to get around you.
  • Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
  • If you slide off the roadway, stay with your vehicle. The Department of Public Safety or ADOT will respond.
  • 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.