US 550 Red Mountain Pass to close for winter maintenance operations

Travel Advisory

January 11, 2023 - Southwestern Colorado - Crews will close the highway at 6:30 a.m. with a lengthy closure expected for much of the morning

Southwest Colorado — CDOT will perform winter maintenance operations on US 550 Red Mountain Pass between Silverton and Ouray tomorrow morning, Thurs., Jan. 12. Crews will close the highway at 6:30 a.m. with a lengthy closure expected for much of the morning. Regional travelers should plan ahead, allow for extra travel time, or arrive and drive through the closure points before 6:30 a.m.

Northbound travelers will encounter a closed gate near Ironton Park (MP 87). Southbound travelers will encounter a closed gate just south of Ouray (MP 91). Do not attempt to bypass the closed gates.

Visit COtrip.org for the latest information on road closures and conditions. Travelers should be aware that during the winter season, snow conditions may require maintenance work and safety closures at any time on many southwest Colorado highways. Be aware that extended closures may be necessary should unusual circumstances or conditions 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:

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!