Follow UDOT's Wasatch Back communications team for current info on road conditions. Photo: Francois Olwage//UnSplash

PARK CITY, Utah — Winter weather in the Wasatch Back can shift quickly, and drivers can use Utah Department of Transportation tools to safely navigate mountain roads.

Since Jan. 22, 2025, UDOT’s Wasatch Back communications program has provided real-time travel updates and winter driving education for Parleys Canyon, Park City and surrounding roadways. The ongoing effort is designed to help drivers make informed decisions during storms, busy ski weekends and major events.

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UDOT Wasatch Back shares information through social media (@udotwasatchback on Instagram, Facebook and X) and the website wasatchback.udot.utah.gov. The program is an extension of UDOT’s Roads to Recreation initiative, which has supported winter travel in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons since 2019.

“Parleys Canyon and Park City are critical corridors for Utah’s winter recreation, and ensuring drivers have access to timely, accurate information is a top priority,” said Becky Parker, UDOT traveler information director, in a release. “This program helps us reach drivers with the information they need to travel more safely and efficiently.”

Reporting focuses on key routes that frequently experience winter impacts, including I-80 in Parleys Canyon, U.S. 40 between Silver Creek Junction and Mayflower, S.R. 224 from Kimball Junction into Park City and S.R. 248 from Quinns Junction into Park City.

Updates include notifications about major crashes, when Utah’s Traction Law is in effect, ski resort parking impacts and other significant traffic disruptions. During storms, UDOT also shares video footage of road conditions to show drivers what to expect before they head out.

“This effort is about giving drivers the tools they need to make informed decisions,” Parker said. “Whether it’s updates on road conditions during a snowstorm, tips on preparing for mountain driving or insights from our plow crews, we’re here to help keep people moving.”

Along with monitoring UDOT’s travel updates, Summit County Health officials are encouraging drivers to take basic winter safety precautions.

Drivers should ensure their vehicles are winter-ready by checking tires, batteries, windshield wipers and fluid levels, and by carrying a winter emergency kit with blankets, water, non-perishable snacks, flares and a first-aid kit.

On snowy or icy roads, officials advise reducing speed, increasing following distance and avoiding sudden braking or sharp steering. If a vehicle begins to slide, drivers should steer gently in the direction they want the front of the car to go.

Motorists are also urged to give snowplows plenty of space. Drivers should stay at least 200 feet back to avoid flying debris, avoid passing unless absolutely necessary and never pass a snowplow on the right.