Update: US 160 east of Elmore’s Corner remains closed Monday afternoon due to a semi rollover

Travel Advisory

April 15, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - Highway between Durango and Bayfield was closed for eight hours

La Plata County — Update as of 7:45 p.m.: US Highway 160 east of Durango opened at 7:30 p.m. following an extended closure today, Monday, April 15. The highway was closed this morning at 11:30 a.m. due to a rollover crash involving a fuel tanker carrying hazardous material. The Colorado State Patrol’s hazmat team responded to the scene. The crash occurred two miles east of the US 160 and CO 172 junction, locally known as Elmore’s Corner.

For details about the crash, contact [email protected] or 303-239-4583.

The Colorado Department of Transportation warns motorists of an extended closure on US Highway 160 approximately two miles east of the US 160 and CO 172 junction (Elmore’s Corner). The closure may extend into late Monday night as hazmat teams continue to investigate the scene and attempt to pull the semi tanker upright.

The highway was closed at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 15 due to a rollover crash involving a fuel tanker carrying hazardous material. The Colorado State Patrol’s hazmat team is on the scene.

Traffic Impacts
CDOT crews are diverting traffic around the crash site and local law enforcement is patrolling the county roads for travelers who need directional assistance. Both eastbound traffic (at Elmore's Corner) and westbound traffic (at CR 225) will be detoured via northerly county roads:

  • County Road 225A
  • County Road 223
  • County Road 230
  • County Road 229
  • County Road 228
  • County Road 234

For evacuation information visit La Plata County Government website or the county’s Facebook page.

Colorado Department of Transportation detour map of US 160 highway closure east of Elmore's Corner.
Detour map of US 160 highway closure east of Elmore's Corner.

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!