Due to spring snowstorms and high winds, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park will not be cleared in time to open for Memorial Day weekend, the traditional target date for opening North America’s highest continuous paved road.
Snow removal crews have been plowing since mid-April, according to a park news release, but weather in recent weeks has dealt them setbacks.
“May storms with significant winds at higher elevations have hampered snow plowing operations,” the release said. “Plow operators this week have encountered additional snow accumulation, significant wind resulting in deep snow drifts, freezing cold temperatures and ice.”
The snowpack in the park currently is 24% above average for this date. Trail Ridge Road, which tops out at 12,183 feet, is closed at Many Parks Curve on the east side of the park and the Colorado River Trailhead on the Grand Lake side. It is possible to hike on Trail Ridge Road past Many Parks Curve at 9,620 feet to Rainbow Curve at 10,829 feet. That section of road was clear on Monday, but that is not the case higher up.
“Pedestrians and bicyclists should prepare for high wind gusts, snow accumulation, deep drifted snow and ice above tree line,” the park release said. “Access points for these users will vary based on weather and road conditions. Visitors parked in traffic lanes or blocking access gates will be cited and towed. Visitors traveling past pedestrian and bicycle closures will be cited.”
Reservations to enter the park will be required during peak periods beginning on Friday and continuing into October.
