NPS Photo Additional Trail Ridge Road InformationTrail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. It is 48-miles one-way across Rocky Mountain National Park and climbs to an elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. During the summer season, Trail Ridge Road connects the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake. 
NPS Photo Take a Scenic Drive on Bear Lake RoadBear Lake Road is open year-round. In the winter and spring, be prepared for snow and ice on the road. Traction control may go into effect at any time. 
NPS Winter Road Closures are In EffectDuring the winter season, a number of roads inside Rocky Mountain National Park are closed to vehicles. The closures listed below are currently in effect. On the East Side of RMNP
On the West Side of RMNP
Expect Conditions to Vary at Different ElevationsRoad conditions and weather can vary greatly throughout the year. Visitors driving in and around the Rocky Mountain National Park area from mid-October to early June should be prepared for snow, ice and winter driving conditions. Remember to slow down and keep your distance from other vehicles. Keep an eye out for wildlife crossing roads. Based on weather and road conditions, Colorado Vehicle Traction Control Law may go into effect at any time. 
NPS Photo What Does it Mean When Traction Control is Active?For the safety of all motorists driving in Rocky Mountain National Park, 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?
NPS Photo Interested in Learning About the Park's Shuttles or Bustang Buses?Shuttles inside the park and Bustang buses to RMNP are not available during the winter season. 
NPS Photo Learn About Old Fall River RoadOld Fall River Road was built between 1913 and 1920 as the first road to the Alpine tundra. This scenic 9.4-mile route is one-way uphill only. The road ends and merges with Trail Ridge Road at top of Fall River Pass in the parking area for Alpine Visitor Center at an elevation of 11,796 feet above sea level. Old Fall River Road is currently closed to all vehicles. This is a seasonal road open to vehicles each year from early July to early October.
What is a drive on Old Fall River Road like?
NPS How Can I Find Information on Roads Outside the Park?Visit the Colorado Department of Transportation for road conditions outside the park. |
Last updated: November 25, 2025