• View from the Canyon Rim Trail. Photo by Jeff Kochevar

    Colorado

    National Monument Colorado

  • Fire Restrictions in effect

    Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle. Charcoal fires are permitted only in provided grills in the campground and picnic areas. No wood fires. Gas stoves are permitted only in campground and picnic areas. All fireworks are prohibited.

Winter Driving Conditions on Rim Rock Drive

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Date: December 10, 2009

Winter Driving Conditions on Rim Rock Drive  -  Expect Icy Conditions!

Stormy conditions have made Rim Rock Drive icy and hazardous. Driving across the top of Rim Rock Drive is not recommended due to exceptionally icy conditions. Plowing and sanding will only be focused on the east and west hills during continued stormy periods.

Rim Rock Drive from Colorado National Monument’s visitor center eastward to DS Road will not be plowed during active storms and will not be an access road for those who may otherwise use 16½ Road in good weather. Glade Park commuters who need to access Rim Rock Drive during winter storms should plan to use the DS Road on East Rim Rock Drive to exit the monument as the rest of Rim Rock Drive will not be plowed.

Once storms subside and conditions permit, Colorado National Monument staff will plow the length of Rim Rock Drive to make it available for all motorists.

Motorists need to give snowplows ample room  - keep a safe distance as plow operators may not be able to see cars following too closely. Biyclists are prohibited from bicycling on Rim Rock Drive while plows are working on any portion of the road.

Motorists driving through Colorado National Monument are reminded to drive cautiously and obey posted speed limits. During winter months, be prepared to encounter ice and snow conditions at any time and in any location even if roads in the valley are clear. Be especially alert for ice on the switchbacks on both the east and west hills of Rim Rock Drive. Speed limits are being enforced and tickets are being issued regularly to speeders, including some with mandatory court appearances.

Did You Know?

collared lizard

With a large head and powerful jaws, the collared lizard is a carnivore. If you wonder why this lizard will hang around long enough for you to take its picture, know that the lizard is protecting its territory! More...