Driving the old S302 road to Yakexia Snow Mountain in Sichuan
Yakexia Snow Mountain is a high mountain pass reaching an elevation of 4,306m (14,127ft) above sea level. Located in the Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in northwestern Sichuan, China, this pass was once a critical point on the 302 Provincial Road (S302). Today, while most traffic uses the modern tunnel, the old mountain road remains a challenging trek for those seeking high-altitude off-road logistics.
| Road facts: Yakexia Snow Mountain | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sichuan Province, China |
| Elevation | 4,306 m (14,127 ft) |
| Road Number | Old S302 (Provincial Road) |
| Length | 15 km (9.3 miles) |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel |
Is the road to Yakexia Snow Mountain still open?
The 15 km stretch of the old S302 starts and ends where the road meets the new tunnel entrance. While the tunnel has replaced the main transit for commercial vehicles, the original pass remains navigable but entirely unpaved. This high-altitude sector lies about 400km northwest of Chengdu, between Heishui and Rangkou. Because it is no longer the primary route, maintenance is minimal, and a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended to handle the deteriorating gravel surface and unpredictable mud after snowmelt.
What are the main hazards on the Yakexia Pass?
The drive to the 4,306m summit comprises extremely steep sections and 10 tight hairpin turns. Logistically, the main hazard is the lack of traffic; if you experience a mechanical failure or get stuck, help is far away. The roadbed climbs through dense pine forests before breaking into rocky, exposed terrain near the peak. Technically, you must be prepared for hypoxia-related power loss in your engine as you surpass the 4,000m mark. The descent is equally demanding, requiring consistent engine braking to prevent overheating on the steep, unpaved ramps that lead back to the main highway.
Best time to drive the old S302 in Sichuan
Due to its elevation, Yakexia Snow Mountain is often blocked by snow for much of the year. The 15 km transit is best attempted between late June and September. Even in summer, the rocky mountains surrounding the pass can trigger sudden weather shifts. High-altitude mist can reduce visibility to near zero on the hairpin sections, making the lack of guardrails a significant risk. Always check local conditions before bypassing the tunnel, as the old road is prone to landslides that can block the 15 km loop without warning.
Pic: https://static.panoramio.com.storage.googleapis.com/photos/large/25821660.jpg