Teton Pass reopened to trailer traffic on Tuesday, April 1 after months of seasonal restrictions that began November 15. The measure was intended to protect drivers from steep terrain and severe winter conditions on Wyoming Highway 22.
This reintroduction follows an extended closure that forced drivers to seek alternate routes through Swan Valley, resulting in significant additional mileage. Trailers under 60,000 pounds gross vehicle weight are now permitted, and motorists are encouraged to remain alert for sudden weather changes in these high elevations.
According to a local outlet providing details, truckers who choose detours can still rely on Wyoming Highway 26/89 to bypass Teton Pass when necessary. Officials emphasize that road closures may occur whenever chain laws are enforced, underscoring the pass’s susceptibility to abrupt snowfall or icy surfaces.
Regulations specify an annual prohibition on all trailers in this corridor from November 15 through April 15. Those guidelines, listed in official documents for seasonal travel, are designed to enhance safety during treacherous winter months. Fines can apply to travelers who disregard the rules or fail to comply with chain requirements.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation notes Teton Pass can be “extremely dangerous for overweight trucks,” citing “grade steepness, grade length and curve severity can cause trucks to lose control.” Authorities warn that oversized vehicles risk higher chances of brake failure, citing steep downhill stretches and abrupt switchbacks common in this mountainous region.
Officials also remind motorists to heed posted speed limits and perform brake checks before tackling descents. The state’s chain law imposes penalties of $250, rising to $750 if a closure results from violations. Travelers are advised to monitor weather forecasts regularly in order to avoid dangerous conditions.
Officials anticipate that the reopening will enable more efficient direct travel between Idaho and Jackson Hole now that the trailer ban has been lifted. Many local drivers rely on the pass for shorter routes, as it connects remote areas more directly than other highways.
Some cautionary measures remain a priority, such as verifying weight limits. Vehicles must remain strictly below 60,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. Drivers are also encouraged to confirm that tires and braking systems are in top condition.
Abrupt weather shifts can still catch travelers off guard. Clearing crews are prepared to respond, but sudden ice or snow often emerges late in the season, creating variable driving conditions. Road authorities recommend carrying chains and checking advisories before departure.
While the duration of the annual winter stipulations is well established, future storms can still cause unplanned closures. In these instances, signs or notifications along the highway may alert drivers to re-route or wait for further instructions.
Officials consider these safety measures necessary given the pass’s steep inclines and sharp curves. They stress that taking extra care will help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the corridor remains open for critical travel in both directions.
Drivers heading over Teton Pass are encouraged to follow all posted guidelines for safe mountain driving. Chain laws, weight limits, and speed restrictions reflect an ongoing commitment to balancing efficient regional connectivity with prudent caution on roads prone to sudden weather events.
