DUI Checkpoints in Alpine County, CA

Alpine County is one of the smallest and least populated counties in California, tucked in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Even though it’s a quiet and scenic area with towns like Markleeville and Bear Valley, it still sees traffic from tourists, especially during ski season and summer travel. Major roads like Highway 4 and Highway 89 run through the region, which are common routes for both locals and visitors.

Despite its small population, Alpine County isn’t immune to DUI incidents. In 2024, there were around 15 DUI-related crashes, resulting in 2 fatalities and several injuries. Because of the county’s mountainous roads and seasonal tourism, law enforcement continues to conduct DUI checkpoints—especially during holiday weekends and local events—to keep everyone safe.

Below is a list of known DUI checkpoint locations in Alpine County, based on 2024 activity:

Markleeville DUI Checkpoints

Highway 89 near Montgomery Street

• Location: Hwy 89 & Montgomery St

• Agency: Alpine County Sheriff’s Office

• Details: Regularly monitored during the summer months and local festivals. Hours usually run from 6 PM to 11 PM.

Bear Valley DUI Checkpoints

Highway 4 near Bear Valley Road

• Location: Hwy 4 & Bear Valley Rd

• Agency: California Highway Patrol

• Details: Set up during ski season and holiday weekends. DUI patrols focus on evening hours, usually 6 PM to midnight.

Lake Alpine Area Checkpoints

Highway 4 near Lake Alpine Campground

• Location: Hwy 4 & Lake Alpine Camp Entrance

• Agency: California Highway Patrol

• Details: Checkpoints often pop up during busy camping weekends from 5 PM to 10 PM.

Woodfords Area DUI Patrols

Highway 88 near Emigrant Trail

• Location: Hwy 88 & Emigrant Trail

• Agency: Alpine County Sheriff’s Office

• Details: This is a key route connecting to South Lake Tahoe. Expect checkpoints during major holidays like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July from 6 PM to 11 PM.

Hung-A-Lel-Ti Community Checkpoints

Diamond Valley Road near Highway 89

• Location: Diamond Valley Rd & Hwy 89

• Agency: Tribal Law Enforcement / Alpine County Sheriff’s Office

• Details: DUI checkpoints set during tribal events and community gatherings. Usual hours are 6 PM to 10 PM.

Even in a rural place like Alpine County, driving under the influence is taken seriously. Whether you’re visiting for outdoor adventures or just passing through, always plan ahead and drive sober. A DUI charge—or worse, a crash—can change lives in an instant. Stay safe and help keep these beautiful mountain roads free from danger.