King of the Hammers week is January 31 through February 9. The date of the actual King of the Hammers race—the toughest and largest one-day road race in North America—is Friday, February 7. The California Highway Patrol is anticipating heavier-than-normal traffic flow in our Morongo Basin during that time. Tens of thousands of racers and spectators in their motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers will be driving on State Routes 62 and 247 as they descend on Johnson Valley to compete and watch the King of the Hammers races starting tomorrow. The CHP asks drivers to be patient around the slower moving vehicles, and to be aware that most of the visitors may be unfamiliar with the Morongo Basin. Most spectators and participants will be leaving Johnson Valley on Sunday, February 9. The CHP will be deploying additional patrol units in the next week. Drivers and residents are warned that the CHP will strictly enforce all driving under the influence laws both on and off the highway, and in BLM territories as well. Operating an off-highway vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs carries the same consequences as operating any other motor vehicle.
