You are here

Home » Trail Ridge Road Through Rocky Mountain National Park Closes For The Winter

Trail Ridge Road Through Rocky Mountain National Park Closes For The Winter

Share

Published Date

October 17, 2012

Trail Ridge Road has closed for the winter, due to snow, high winds, and freezing temperatures. This file photo shows just how deep the snow can pile up on the road. NPS photo.

If your guess for the date Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park would close for the winter was October 17, please step forward to claim your prize!

Wintry conditions that have been blowing snow across the two-lane road that climbs above 12,000 feet finally became too much for park crews to continue to battle, according to park officials. Since last Thursday the road has been closed due to consistent winter conditions of drifting snow, high winds and below freezing temperatures.

Trail Ridge Road, one of the most impressive alpine highways in the United States, is the highest continuous paved road in America and reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet. The road connects the park’s gateway communities of Estes Park on the east and Grand Lake on the west. The road is currently closed at Colorado River Trailhead on the west side and Many Parks Curve on the east side.

“We continue to get snowfall at high elevations combined with strong winds. The snow will continue to blow and drift at higher elevations, making snow clearing operations and driving conditions extremely hazardous," said park Superintendent Vaughn Baker. "During the winter season, weather permitting, we will keep Trail Ridge Road open to Many Parks Curve on the east side of the park and to the Colorado River Trailhead on the west side of the park.”

The average winter closure date for Trail Ridge Road has been October 23. Although often times the road closes earlier and does not reopen, the previous ten years' official closure dates are: October 27, 2011, October 29, 2010, October 21, 2009, November 6, 2008, October 22, 2007, October 23, 2006, November 4, 2005, October 25, 2004, November 6, 2003 and November 1, 2002.

If you're looking ahead to visit Rocky Mountain next spring, the central portion of Trail Ridge Road normally opens the last week in May, weather permitting. This year Trail Ridge Road opened early on May 14, due to a dry and mild winter and early spring.

Old Fall River Road officially closed for the season on October 10. Old Fall River Road is an unpaved road that travels from Endovalley picnic area to above treeline at Fall River Pass, following the steep slope of Mount Chapin. Due to the road’s narrow nature, the scenic 9.4-mile route leading to Trail Ridge Road is one way only.

Trail Ridge Road is now in "winter trail status," which means that bicycles and pets are not permitted beyond the closed gates. However, until signed otherwise, Old Fall River Road remains in "winter road status,” which means that cyclists and leashed pets are still permitted beyond the closed gate as long as signing does not indicate otherwise. This applies on Old Fall River Road to the Alpine Visitor Center and no further.

As always, pets are still prohibited on trails and outside of developed areas and road corridors. Signs at the closed gate on Old Fall River Road may be changed at any time, showing the road is closed to cyclists and pets based on weather and road conditions and/or heavy maintenance work being conducted on the road.

Story Categories:

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Donate Popup

The National Parks Traveler keeps you informed on how politics impact national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.