Up to three feet of snow has fallen over the past few days in areas like the San Bernardino Mountains, but conditions visiting those spots can be precarious. The California Highway Patrol is urging drivers to be prepared.
Most roads going up to mountain communities are still icy so tire chain requirements are in place for most vehicles. Some drivers who tried heading up without chains were turned away by CHP officers Thursday.
Many others were forced to learn a new skill on the spot.
"I just don't really know how to put them on. I only come up every couple years so I never bothered to learn," said Andrew Malingowski of Culver City.
All mountain roads are under a level 2 chain requirement. Chains or traction devices are required for all cars except vehicles with four-wheel drive or all-week drive with four snow-tread tires. However, they must still carry chains in case conditions worsen.
While the storm has moved out of Southern California, clearing skies will only make for colder overnight lows and potential black ice. Driving 25 mph is recommended.
Those who do head up should also take extra water, food and blankets just in case.