Commercial semi-truck crash closes eastbound lanes in Glenwood Canyon

Travel Advisory

September 17, 2024 - Northwestern Colorado - Drivers urged to consider the northern alternate route via Highways 13, 40 and 9
A commercial semi-truck crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Spring
A commercial semi-truck crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Springs at approximately 9:30 a.m. A closure remains in place for eastbound traffic.

I-70 Mountain Corridor — Eastbound lanes of the I-70 Mountain Corridor in Glenwood Canyon are closed. It is not known when the eastbound lanes will open. Interstate travelers are advised to avoid the area and seek the northern alternate route for east to west travel.

The northern alternate route can be accessed at the town of Rifle, exit 87, then north along CO 13 to Craig. The route continues on US 40 to Steamboat, then south on CO 9 to Silverthorne where travelers may access I-70 again. Visit COtrip.org for route details and closure updates.

I-70 westbound traffic is being allowed through the crash area. CDOT and the Colorado State Patrol urge drivers to slow down and abide by the speed reduction being enforced in the area.

The closure is due to a commercial semi-truck that crashed about six miles east of Glenwood Springs at approximately 9:30 a.m. The Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) was traveling in the westbound lanes of I-70 when it crashed through the guardrail and landed on the eastbound lanes of the lower deck.

Emergency crews respond to a commercial semi-truck that crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Spring
Emergency crews respond to a commercial semi-truck that crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Springs at approximately 9:30 a.m. A closure remains in place for eastbound traffic.

A commercial semi-truck crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Springs
A commercial semi-truck crashed on I-70 about six miles east of Glenwood Springs at approximately 9:30 a.m. A closure remains in place for eastbound traffic.

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!