Changing of the leaves signals additional mountain traffic

News Release

September 12, 2024 - Colorado - Drivers urged to plan accordingly, especially on weekends

Denver —As summer turns to fall, the Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to anticipate additional traffic in the high country over the next few weekends, as people head out to see the autumn leaves.

Mountain roads see increased traffic when the aspens begin turning to red and gold, so drivers and photo-takers standing and walking along roadways need to watch out for each other.

Be a Smart Leaf Peeper with the following tips:

  • Beware of other vehicles that may be traveling at lower speeds
  • Watch for vehicles pulling off the roadways, and vehicles parked along the roadside
  • Find safe, designated areas to park
  • Drivers – be aware of pedestrians! People will be out of their vehicles, often taking photos
  • Pedestrians also should be extremely diligent and watch out for passing vehicles

In addition, it is a great time to kick off the autumn travel season with Colorado Byways #Roadtrip Weekend from Sept. 27 through Sept. 29. That weekend aligns with National Public Lands Day on Sept. 28. Pairing up a beautiful scenic drive along with the popular enjoyment and volunteer conservation of public lands can provide an economic boost to rural communities. The bonus: admission to the national parks and monuments is free on NPLD. For more information, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/public-lands-day.htm

For more on the state’s 26 Scenic and Historic Byways, please visit: https://www.codot.gov/travel/colorado-byways, where you can learn fun facts, estimated drive times, key attractions, route length and more. Another resource is www.cotrip.org and the COtrip Planner App, where you can plan your route ahead of time by clicking on the Scenic Byways layer on the Layers menu.

Construction zones are possible on state roadways

CDOT also is reminding drivers that highway work zones are possible, even on weekends. Although most projects shut down for the weekend, some may take advantage of favorable fall weather to continue construction activities before winter weather stops work until the spring.

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!