Is access along 120 going to be open up to certain points as goes the plowing? For example could it be possible that by the weekend of the 3rd that I could get to Tenaya Lake? Or does it remain closed until all plowing is completed and the entire route is open? The article didn't mention that.

It remains closed until the entire thing opens each year.

(Lassen NP does it better)

Dang, we're going to the valley but were going to hike Cloud's Rest via the Sunrise Trail. Guess it will be Happy Isle now, my sister-in-law is going and the Sunrise would be more her speed.

It's a long hike from Happy Isle, view will be great though!

Often a week or so beforehand they open the road to bycicles. Probably not much help.

You can drive up to the park entrance currently*.







*so i've heard.


EDIT: confirmed
http://www.sierrawave.net/24345/tioga-pass-anticipated/

I was there the first weekend of March and the roads were clear into the valley. Only when you got back to the parking areas at Happy Isle was there some snow, but very little. The trail to the top of upper falls was basically clear as well.

The trail is south facing, and last weekend there wasn't any snow to speak of on the south side of Smith Peak (nearly 8000 feet high), so I don't think snow will stop you.

Sonora Pass opened today.

thata a pretty early opening isnt it?

All the roads are opening early this year. Hope everybody gets a chance to take advantage of the long summer ahead.