Wolf Creek Pass Highway Closure Today to Allow for Helicopter Operations

In preparation for the upcoming winter season, the Colorado Department of Transportation will close US Highway 160 Wolf Creek Pass this morning, Wednesday, November 16, for an estimated three hours, from 9:00am to 12:00 noon.

The lengthy closure is needed to allow for motorist safety during critical helicopter operations and preparations of avalanche mitigation equipment. This closure event was originally scheduled for last week and was delayed due to forecasted winds that created unsafe conditions for helicopter operations. The helicopter operations remain dependent upon weather conditions.

Travelers are advised to check COtrip.org for the most current updates and information.

Both eastbound and westbound motorists will encounter full stops and a lengthy delay of up to three hours. Motorists are urged to allow for extra travel time or seek alternate routes.

West Closure Point: Treasure Falls (MP 157), 13 miles east of Pagosa Springs.

East Closure Point: Wolf Creek Pass Ski Area (MP 167), 19 miles west of South Fork.

Please be aware the delay times are approximate and may be extended should unusual circumstances arise.

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:

Road conditions and travel information is available at COtrip.org

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.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

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!

About CDOT
The Colorado Department of Transportation’s mission is to provide the best multi-modal transportation system that most effectively and safely moves people, goods and information. CDOT maintains more than 23,000 lane miles of highway, more than 3,400 bridges and 35 mountain passes.

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