Highway closure set for Wednesday, Nov. 16 to allow for helicopter operations on Wolf Creek Pass

Travel Advisory

November 14, 2022 - Southwestern Colorado - US 160 between mile point 157 and mile point 167 will be closed for much of Wednesday morning

Southwestern Colorado ― In preparation for the upcoming winter season, the Colorado Department of Transportation will close US 160 Wolf Creek Pass the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 16, for an estimated three hours from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 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.

Traffic Impacts

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.

US 160 Wolf Creek Pass closure from West closure point Treasure Falls mile point 157 to East closure point Wolf Creek Ski Area mile point 167 Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Allow for extra travel time, seek alternate routes, delay times are approximate, and checking COtrip.org for updates.
US 160 Wolf Creek Pass closure from West closure point Treasure Falls mile point 157 to East closure point Wolf Creek Ski Area mile point 167 Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Allow for extra travel time, seek alternate routes, delay times are approximate, and checking COtrip.org for updates.

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:

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.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

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!