NHP: Expect traffic headaches during Mt. Charleston's busiest days

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Nevada Highway Patrol is warning people that the next several days will be the busiest time for Mount Charleston.

Trooper Jason Buratczuk said in an email that NHP expects the busy period to last through Jan. 6, which will mean congested roads.

Illegal parking is a major cause of the congestion, according to Buratczuk, and troopers have been issuing citations that run $190 per ticket.

"The mission of the Nevada Highway Patrol during these busy weeks is to keep the roads clear, period," he said. "Troopers and paramedics have to be able to respond to incidents on the mountain."

About 3,000 parking spots on the mountain fill up before 10 a.m., he said, and anyone leaving for the mountain after 1 p.m. can expect to sit in traffic.

If congestion becomes an issue, NHP will only allow residents, employees and ski pass holders up the mountain.

The busy period comes as visitor services for Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, including restrooms, remain closed due to the partial government shutdown.

Lee Canyon, Mt. Charleston Lodge and The Retreat on Charleston Peak are still open, according to a statement on the Spring Mountains website.

Anyone visiting the mountains is advised to check road conditions at NVRoads.com or GoMtCharleston.com.