US 50 Monarch Pass opened shortly after 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 27

Travel Advisory

Nov. 27, 2024 - Southwestern Colorado - CDOT maintenance teams completed safety-critical winter operations

Southwest Colorado — The Colorado Department of Transportation opened US Highway 50 between Gunnison and Salida, on Wednesday, Nov. 27 at approximately 8:15 a.m. The highway is open to travel however motorists are warned that closures are possible to continue throughout the week. Motorists can expect adverse winter driving conditions through Thursday morning on US 50 Monarch Pass.

Beginning Tuesday at 5 p.m., US 50 between Poncha Springs and Sargents, was closed intermittently throughout the evening and into Wednesday morning to allow for winter maintenance operations.

Visit COtrip.org for the latest information on road closures and 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!