Installing Snow Chains: What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road

When driving in winter conditions along U.S. 395 and into Mammoth Lakes, being prepared matters. In particular:

• You should bring tire snow chains with you. Chains are often required — especially when conditions get icy or when the California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforces chain controls near Bishop to allow exit from town. Even if  CHP is not requiring chains on tires, they may require you to have them on board before you exit Bishop, even if you're riding snow tires and 4x4.
• Chains and cable kits are very expensive in Mono and Inyo County. Buying ahead or renting chains can save you from high local markups.
• Practice installing your chains in a dry, flat location before a storm hits so you’re comfortable when the weather turns.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Install Snow Chains

There are lots of helpful videos on Youtube, but in a pinch, here's a quick overview. Be sure to also check your vehicle and tire manufacturer's instructions;Park safely. Pull off the road, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.

1. Lay the chains on the ground behind the drive wheels while wearing boots and gloves.
2. Drape the chains over the tire, ensuring they hang evenly and wrap around.
3. Drive forward slowly a few feet, so the chains settle around the circumference of the tire.
4. Reconnect the back ends of the chains and ensure a snug fit — there should be no loose links.
5. Drive slowly (< 30 mph) for the first few hundred feet and re-check tension.
6. Remove chains when the chain control ends or when surface conditions are clear. Leaving them on pavement can damage tires and vehicle.

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​🛠 Local Chain-Install & Tire Services in the Mammoth Lakes Area

• Mammoth Mobile Tire Services – Mobile tire & installation service; great for chain install help if you’re already in town.
  Phone: (760) 914-2210. 
• Mammoth Chevron (3236 Main St., Mammoth Lakes) – Sells and installs snow chains/cables during winter. Phone: (760) 934-8111. 
• Norco Service Center-Goodyear (3670 Main St., Mammoth Lakes) – Full-service automotive shop; can assist with tires and chain setup. Phone: (760) 934-9693.

🧭 Quick Tips for Your Arrival

• When driving into town on US-395, stop early to install chains if required — waiting too long can be risky.
• If you’ll be staying for multiple days and expect snow, check your chain tension daily – mounting unevenly can cause damage.
• Leaving Mammoth? Prepare in advance — chain requirements can come up suddenly when roads freeze overnight.

Bottom line: Bring your own chains, know how to install them, and keep the local service numbers handy. Being ready makes all the difference when snow hits the Eastern Sierra.