Sierra Vista Scenic Byway
Visitor Services
There are rest stops, scenic pullouts, and interpretive signs along the byway.
Boardwalks and paths as well as restroom facilities are fully ADA compliant for disabled travelers.
NOTE: The America's Byways® website is federally funded and cannot promote commercial businesses. This data may not be complete or up to date. The National Scenic Byways Program is not responsible for the quality of your travel experience. See the right column on the Byway Overview page for local contact information.
Special Considerations
Visitors will want to do some amount of research on the history, geologic features and regional flora and fauna of the central Sierra Nevada to fully enjoy all aspects of this trip. Books, maps and brochures are available at US Forest Service offices and information centers around the region.
Travel Precautions - The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is a seasonal route. Weather and other changing conditions can close the roads in this area with little or no notice. Be sure to check with local agencies before commencing your trip. Leave an itinerary with someone who can notify authorities if needed. Consult literature on the byway web site for suggested items you should take to insure a successful trip. Be sure to bring along extra water, food, warm clothing, a flashlight, and other necessary items.
Services available along this route are limited. During summer months only. Wagner's Store at Mammoth Pool has a private campground, food, and is the only facility with gasoline.
Restrictions
Snowfall regulates the opening and/or closing of the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. Mammoth Pool reservoir is closed in early spring for the Sierra Deer Herd migration. Sierra National Forest offices or the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau should be contacted for specific dates.
The Beasore Road has a graded dirt surface from the end of the Minarets Road to Muglar Meadow (8 miles). Passenger cars can negotiate this section but travel on the rough surface is slow- approximately 15 miles per hour. The remainder of Beasore Road is paved and offers an enjoyable trip. Traveling to Nelder Grove from Cold Springs Summit is a graded dirt road, so expect to travel slowly.
Seasons
- Best Time to Drive
Scenic views on the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway are the best from opening through July or August. Wildflower season is short and is best during mid-summer.
- High Season
Travel on the byway around Independence Day could lead to more encounters with other visitors than other times of the season.
- Off Season
The byway may be closed due to snowfall from fall to early spring. Be sure to contact a Sierra National Forest office or the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau first.
Road Conditions
- To find up to date information about the road conditions along Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, please visit the FHWA listing of web sites for more information.
- California







