WILSON, WYOMING – No trailers of any kind will be allowed on Teton Pass between November 15 and April 1, under Wyoming Department of Transportation rules that take effect in less than three weeks on one of the steepest highways in the continental United States.
The ban covers WY-22 over Teton Pass, west of Jackson, and runs through the winter season every year. WYDOT also applies temporary trailer restrictions on the pass when the weather turns bad, as it did late Monday night, October 26, when the first snow of the season hit. Restrictions may continue to be issued ahead of the official date because of winter weather.
WYDOT warned drivers to take the rules seriously. “Any deviation from these requirements will increase the crash probability and threaten your life and the lives of other drivers on the pass.”
Chain Law Penalties
When conditions are hazardous, chain laws go into effect. In Wyoming, failing to follow the chain law can bring a $250 fine, or a $750 fine for a violation that results in a road closure.
Permanent Restrictions on the Pass
Several other restrictions apply year-round:
- A 60,000-pound maximum weight limit is in effect at all times on WY-22 between the town of Wilson and the Idaho state line.
- All drivers of motorhomes, campers, RVs, vehicles pulling trailers, and vehicles with a GVWR or GCWR over 10,000 pounds must certify with the WY 22 Safe Pass Program before driving those vehicles on the pass.
- Tire chains may be required for all vehicles under certain conditions.
WYDOT describes Teton Pass as having steep grades, sharp curves, and hazardous conditions. The road rises about 2,400 feet from its base near Wilson before descending to the Idaho state line, where WY-22 becomes Idaho State Highway 33. Closures during bad weather or heavy snow should be expected, and avalanches are possible whenever snow is present. Drivers are encouraged to use lower gears to keep speeds appropriate on steep downhill grades.
Alternate Routes
Trucks can use alternate routes around Teton Pass. The most frequently used route from Idaho runs through the Snake River Canyon on Wyoming Highway 26/89. Another common alternate between Jackson, Wyoming, and Driggs, Idaho, runs south from Jackson through Hoback Junction toward Alpine, Wyoming, and then west into Idaho’s Swan Valley.
Information courtesy of WYDOT.
📸 Image(s) used under fair use for news reporting.
