CO 151 remains closed south of Chimney Rock National Monument

Travel Advisory

April 20, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Water flow levels must recede before repairs can be made to the culvert and roadway
CDOT maintenance crews observed significant soil erosion caused by heavy spring run-off in the Stollsteimer Creek
On April 11, CDOT maintenance crews observed significant soil erosion caused by heavy spring run-off in the Stollsteimer Creek which runs along and under CO 151, five miles south of the US 160 Junction near Chimney Rock National Monument.

Archuleta County — Colorado Highway 151 remains closed south of the US Highway 160 junction, between Pagosa and Arboles. Heavy spring run-off in Stollsteimer Creek, near Chimney Rock National Monument, has eroded the shoulder of the roadway causing a safety risk for drivers.
Colorado Department of Transportation crews have been monitoring the site daily, and working toward a temporary fix to get at least one lane open for alternating traffic. However, water levels must subside before any temporary or permanent repairs can be made.

The closure was put into place last week, Tuesday, April 11, after CDOT was alerted of erosion issues on the highway caused by heavy spring run-off. Large volumes of water carrying natural debris washed away much of the creek channel and earth surrounding the metal culverts, causing a high potential for sinkholes to form underneath the road surface.

Traffic Impacts

Motorists should expect a long-term closure to be in place on CO 151 until further notice.

  • South closure point is located at MP 28.1, north of Old Gallegos Road
  • North closure point is located at MP 29, south of Cabazon Canyon Road
  • Do not attempt to bypass road barricades at the closure points
  • Travelers are encouraged to seek alternative routes and check COtrip.org for the most current road conditions

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!