Iconic Colorado drive that hits 12,183 feet of elevation officially opens for season
After a record-setting season of winter dryness followed by a surprising turnaround of heavy snow and plenty of moisture in northern Colorado in recent weeks, Trail Ridge Road has officially opened for the season. Work to clear snow and open the road started in mid-April.
Located in Rocky Mountain National Park and known for connecting the eastern side of the park with the western side of the park as the highest paved continuous highway in the United States, Trail Ridge Road hits a peak elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level. While its high elevation comes with stunning views, it also means the road is subject to pretty wild high-elevation weather. Recently, this meant feet of May snow landing on the road ahead of when the route typically opens.
While the road is now open, the park has warned hopeful drivers of possible dangerous conditions due to melting snow and potential freezing temperatures. In other words, the road may get icy. It’s also worth noting that because weather conditions can rapidly change, the status of the road can change, as well. Parkgoers should be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly and can call 970-586-1222 for the most up-to-date report on the status of the road.
At this time, the Alpine Visitor Center along the road’s highest stretch and the Trail Ridge Store remain closed to all uses. Visitors have been instructed to adhere to any and all barricades with those entering closed areas to be cited.
The late-May opening of Trail Ridge Road is fairly typical, with this year’s May 29 opening on par with the recent norm. Last year, the road opened on May 30 and the year prior, it opened on May 31.
Visitors of Rocky Mountain National Park should also be aware that the timed-entry reservation system is underway with a timed-entry reservation required to drive Trail Ridge Road. There are two types of reservations available – one for the Bear Lake Road Corridor and the rest of the park, which is active between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m., and another for the entire park with the exception of the Bear Lake Road corridor that is active between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Trail Ridge Road is included on both types of reservations, with the reservation allowing park visitors to enter during a two-hour window.
Find additional information on visiting Rocky Mountain National Park here.
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