Date: January 26, 2011
Contact: Visitor Center, 970-858-3617 ext. 360
Colorado National Monument has begun plowing the top section of Rim Rock Drive approximately one month earlier than scheduled due to this winter's lack of snow. Plowing operations are expected to take approximately three days. Then the road will be allowed to dry out before opening to motorized traffic on Monday, January 31.
During the interim period pedestrians and cyclists are welcome to utilize the upper section of Rim Rock Drive during daylight hours only. Pet owners on foot are welcome to walk dogs as long as the dogs are on leashes at all times, remain on the pavement of Rim Rock Drive and pet owners clean up dog waste. Pedestrians and cyclists should use caution and be alert for snow and long sections of ice pack while using Rim Rock Drive.
During plowing operations pedestrians and cyclists are urged to use extreme caution and give plows plenty of room to maneuver. Plow operators cannot easily see individuals on foot or on bikes. Pedestrians and cyclists should yield to the plow, move away from the area being plowed and allow the plow to pass before continuing to walk or bike in the vicinity of the plow.
Rim Rock Drive will open gate to gate to motorists on Monday, January 31. If new snow storms come there may be short temporary closures until the road can be plowed for motorized use.
Throughout the remaining winter months there may continue to be patches of snow and black ice along Rim Rock Drive. All users should proceed cautiously and be prepared for sudden changing winter conditions.
