All southwest and south-central Colorado mountain passes are open

Travel Advisory

January 19, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - After two days of winter maintenance operations across the region, US 550 Red Mountain Pass and CO 17 Cumbres and La Manga Passes are open

Southwestern Colorado - During the last 48 hours, CDOT crews worked to clear snow slide paths along US 550 between Silverton and Ouray to make the highway safe and passable for travelers. On January 19 at approximately 12:15 p.m., the Red Mountain Pass safety closure was lifted and the highway is completely open between Durango and Ouray. CDOT crews have also completed safety and snow-clearing operations on CO 17 Cumbres and La Manga passes today at approximately 1:15 p.m. The highway is open north of the New Mexico Stateline to Antonito. 

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for the coming days across southwestern and south-central Colorado. The stormy weather will impact travel across the region and travelers are encouraged to check COtrip.org for updated road conditions and closures.

A CDOT snowblower casts an arc of snow off of the highway just below “The Ledges” snow slide path on US 550 south of the Red Mountain Pass summit.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new FREE COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!