CDOT closes US 550 Red Mountain Pass

December 27, 2019 - Southwestern Colorado

 

COtrip web cam, 12/27/219, 12:00 p.m.

SOUTHWEST COLORADO ― The Colorado Department of Transportation closed US Highway 550 Red Mountain Pass just after noon today due to adverse winter weather. The pass, located in southwest Colorado, will remain closed until further notice. Closure points are at Silverton, MP 71 and Ouray, MP 91.

Area Maintenance Supervisor Vance Kelso stated, “Driving conditions area deteriorating quickly. The snow storm appears to be intensifying.”

Travelers are advised to consider the westerly alternate route via CO Highway 145 through Telluride. 

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center has also issued an avalanche watch for the southern San Juans. Avalanche danger is expected to be high due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. These conditions have prompted CDOT & CAIC to schedule avalanche mitigation work for the 550 mountain corridor tomorrow morning (Sat. 12/28). If the pass re-opens between now and Saturday morning, travelers can expect delays if driving over Coal Bank, Molas and Red Mountain Passes. Travelers should also note that the high avalanche danger may call for possible avalanche control operations on other area passes including US 160 Wolf Creek Pass and CO 145 Lizard Head Pass. These possible operations will cause lengthy delays. Visit COtrip.org for road condition and avalanche control operations alerts.

 

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: