Rockfall closes US 40 west of Steamboat, near Milner

Travel Advisory

September 18, 2024 - Northwestern Colorado - 11 a.m. closure and cleanup of I-70 Glenwood Canyon postponed
A rockslide on US Highway 40 west of Steamboat Springs
A rockslide occurred on US Highway 40 west of Steamboat Springs just after 7 a.m. this morning.

5:15 p.m. — US HIghway 40 is OPEN. Rockfall clean-up is completed.

9 a.m. — US Highway 40 is closed due to a rockslide.

Routt County —The rockfall occurred just after 7 a.m. this morning west of Steamboat Springs and near the community of Milner. Colorado Department of Transportation crews are responding to remove smaller rocks and debris. A large boulder reached the roadway and covered both lanes of travel. CDOT crews are on the scene working to reduce the hazards on the ground, while specialized teams have been mobilized to help remove the larger rock and confirm the integrity of the nearby rock face.

It is not known when the highway will reopen. Routt County is assisting CDOT with a detour through county roads. Travelers can bypass the closure by using County Roads 33, 33A and 27 south of US 40.

The planned 11 a.m. closure and clean-up of I-70 Glenwood Canyon is now postponed due to the US 40 rockslide; CDOT will update the public ahead of the resumption of that work, which will only take place once travel on US 40 is restored.

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!

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