The Colorado Department of Transportation said travelers should be prepared for hot weather and long delays this weekend with crowds, construction and high temperatures along the I-70 corridor.

Last year at this time, from June 21 through June 23, there were extensive delays as travelers sought to beat the heat. CDOT expects much the same this weekend, with temperatures knocking on the 100-degree door at lower elevations.

Nor is traffic expected to let up anytime soon, what with the 4th of July holiday just weeks away. With the holiday falling on a Friday this year, CDOT anticipates seeing significant delays starting July 3.

CDOT said motorists should be prepared for travel time from C-470 to Silverthorne to take more than two hours.

In 2024, CDOT saw instances of vehicles overheating in slow or stalled traffic. Motorists are encouraged to ensure their vehicle has been properly maintained to help avoid overheating and have equipment and supplies in their vehicles in the event of a closure or extended delays, including water, snacks, games for passengers, a full gas tank and a fully charged cellphone equipped with the COTrip Planner app and the “Tell Me” feature enabled.

The app will be able to announce closures or delays along an individual’s travel route without the driver needing to look at their phone, said CDOT.

Transportation alternatives

CDOT’s Bustang transit system provides an alternative for those who would rather not drive. Bustang serves I-70 between Denver and Grand Junction and I-25 between Fort Collins and Colorado Springs. Outrider is an option for travel through many rural areas of the state. And Pegasus shuttle vans serve the I-70 west corridor between Denver and Avon. Visit www.ridebustang.com.

If possible, adjust travel plans to avoid peak traffic periods. Motorists can use GoI70.com to view the latest traffic forecasts.

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:

Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org

Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp

Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts

See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures

Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube