Planning to Drive in Rocky During the Spring?Road conditions and weather can vary greatly throughout the year. All visitors driving in and around the Rocky Mountain National Park area from mid-October to early June should be prepared for winter driving conditions. Roads may be snowpacked and icy. Remember to slow down and keep your distance from other vehicles. Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing roads. Due to weather and adverse conditions, roads in Rocky Mountain National Park may close at any time. Colorado Traction Control Law may be implemented as conditions require.What Does it Mean When Traction Control is Active in the Park?For the safety of all motorists driving in Rocky Mountain National Park during the winter season, the Colorado Vehicle Traction Law may become active at any time, based on weather and road conditions. While Rocky Mountain National Park has federal exclusive jurisdiction, the park is authorized under 36 CFR 4.2(b) to enforce applicable local and state traffic regulations. When the Colorado Vehicle Traction Law is active in RMNP, this means that all vehicles (including 4-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, and 2-Wheel Drive) must have properly rated tires (Mud and Snow, Mountain and Snow or All-Weather Tires) with a minimum of 3/16" tread. If you have improperly rated tires on your vehicle, then you must use an approved traction control device. These may include snow chains, cables, tire/snow socks, or studded tires. When the traction law is in place in RMNP, if a ve hicle is involved in a motor vehicle crash, to include sliding off the road due to icy conditions, motorists will be cited if their vehicle does not meet Colorado Traction Control Law requirements.Where Can I Learn About the Current Status of Park Roads?
How Can I Find Information on Roads Outside the Park?Visit the Colorado Department of Transportation for road conditions outside the park.
Interested in Exploring the Bear Lake Road Corridor?Bear Lake Road is a paved road that is 9.2-miles long. It winds and climbs in elevation from 8,200 feet above sea level (2,500 meters) at the junction with Trail Ridge Road to 9,475 feet (2888 meters) where the road ends at the Bear Lake Parking Area and Trailhead. All About Trail Ridge RoadDid you know that Rocky Mountain National Park has the highest paved roads in any national park in the United States? Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, cresting at an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. What is the current status of Trail Ridge Road?Trail Ridge Road, which is Highway 34 through Rocky Mountain National Park, is closed to through travel for the winter season. Weather permitting, the road is closed at Many Parks Curve on the east side of the park and at the Colorado River Trailhead on the west side of the park.
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Last updated: May 8, 2024