Expect heavy Fourth of July traffic on I-70 Mountain Corridor and other mountain highways

Travel Advisory

July 2, 2025 - Statewide News - Motorists urged to plan ahead, drive safely and help prevent wildfires

Statewide - The Colorado Department of Transportation is urging motorists to plan for heavy holiday traffic along the Interstate 70 Mountain Corridor and US Highway 285 over the Fourth of July weekend. With more Coloradans and visitors expected to head into the high country to celebrate the holiday, travel volumes are expected to peak starting Thursday afternoon, July 3, and continue through Sunday evening, July 6

To ease congestion and maximize safety, CDOT will suspend all construction and maintenance work across the state starting at noon on Thursday, July 3, through the morning of Monday, July 7. Major projects such as the I-70 Floyd Hill Project will suspend construction activities on the interstate starting Monday, June 30, to help lessen disruptions to traffic. While crews will not be actively working, motorists should still expect to drive through existing work zones with reduced speed areas. To avoid additional delays, travelers are urged to please stay alert and obey posted signage.

Independence Day traditionally begins a period of above average traffic in the high country, with summer tourism hitting its peak over the next six to seven weeks.

For those seeking an alternative to driving, Bustang, Pegasus, and Bustang Outrider provides service to many mountain areas, including Estes Park, and to cities and towns along the Front Range and beyond. Please go to ridebustang.com for more information.

In 2024, traffic volume remained high at the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels throughout the July Fourth Weekend:

Wednesday, July 3:
Westbound: 30,472
Eastbound: 17,773
Total: 48,205

Thursday, July 4:
Westbound: 22,396
Eastbound: 15,749
Total: 38,145

Friday, July 5:
Westbound: 22,585
Eastbound: 24,012
Total: 46,597

Saturday, July 6:
Westbound: 20,448
Eastbound: 31,150
Total: 51,598

Sunday, July 7:
Westbound: 19,453
Eastbound: 31,590
Total: 51,043

Total:
235,588

Summer holiday travel tips

  • Avoid peak times: With the holiday falling on a Friday, westbound I-70 tends to see the most traffic Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. Return traffic eastbound is typically heaviest on Sunday afternoon. Motorists can view a travel forecast while planning departure times by visiting GOI70.com.
  • Use CDOT’s travel tools: Check COtrip.org or download the free COtrip Planner app for real-time traffic information, road conditions and live cameras.
  • Prepare for delays: Pack extra water, snacks, medications, games for passengers, and emergency supplies, especially if traveling with children or pets.

Fire safety for motorists:

With much of the state experiencing dry conditions and many mountain communities, including Eagle, Summit, and Garfield counties, under Stage One fire restrictions, the risk of human-caused wildfires is high. CDOT reminds motorists to do their part to keep Colorado safe:

  • Observe "Red Flag" fire weather warnings. These warnings are issued when weather conditions are conducive to the easy start and rapid spread of wildfires.
  • Never throw out lit cigarettes or matches from a vehicle.
  • Check and secure trailer chains to prevent dragging that could create sparks.
  • Avoid parking on or near dry grass, as hot vehicle parts can ignite vegetation.
  • Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, with no fluid leaks or overheating parts.
  • Check your tire pressure, as driving on exposed wheel rims can throw sparks.
  • Look behind you before driving away from fire-sensitive locations such as campsites to check for signs of a developing fire.
  • Report any roadside fires immediately by calling 911.

“Whether you’re heading to the mountains to hike, camp, or watch fireworks, we want everyone to get to their destination safely,” said Sally Chafee, CDOT’s chief of staff . “Plan ahead, be patient, and help us protect Colorado’s beautiful landscapes from fire risk.”

Safety Patrol

The CDOT Safety Patrol operates on high-traffic highways and major roadways throughout Colorado, providing assistance to stranded motorists and helping manage traffic incidents. The program supports roadside safety by assisting drivers during unexpected vehicle breakdowns, traffic incidents and other roadside emergencies throughout Colorado.

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!