I-70 Express Lanes: Idaho Springs to Empire

The I-70 Express Lanes run adjacent to the free general-purpose lanes from the Veterans Memorial Tunnels in Idaho Springs to Empire. Known as the“Mountain Express Lanes”, these 12-mile-long, managed lanes feature traffic management systems to improve mobility and provide drivers with a reliable, time-saving option. These lanes are open during peak travel times, mostly on weekends and holidays. When not open to traffic, the lanes are used as an emergency shoulder for vehicle breakdowns and emergency services. Tolling began on the eastbound lanes in 2015 and on the westbound lanes in 2022. Drivers are billed for using the Express Lane either through their license plate or ExpressToll pass/transponder.

How to Use the Express Lane

Toll only. No HOV. Trucks and trailers are not permitted.

I Travel in a:

On the I-70 Mountain Express Lane, motorcycles have to pay the toll. Motorcycles must have an ExpressToll account in order to receive the discounted toll rate (Note: motorcycles do not need a physical ExpressToll pass as long as the motorcycle license plate has been added to an ExpressToll account). Motorcycles without an ExpressToll account will be charged the higher License Plate Toll (LPT) toll rate.

Toll only for all vehicles.

Sign up for I-70 Mountain Express Lanes Text Alerts

A new text alert system is available to keep roadway users informed about unexpected Express Lane closures, delays, or flex day openings. To sign up and receive these text notifications, text “xpresslanes” to 21000.

View this flyer for more information on other text alert services along the I-70 mountain corridor.

When will the Express Lanes be open?

Westbound 

For the month of October, the westbound I-70 Mountain Express Lane from Idaho Springs to Empire is scheduled to be open on the first three Thursdays, and all Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Eastbound

From Oct. 6 to Nov. 7, 2025, the eastbound I-70 Mountain Express Lane from Empire to Idaho Springs is closed for toll equipment maintenance. Thank you for your patience.

Corridor Basics

• These lanes are only open during peak travel periods – they are used as emergency shoulders at all other times.
• 12 miles of Express Lanes between the Veterans Memorial Tunnels to the Empire interchange.
• All motorcycles and vehicles are tolled.
• No HOV 3+ available.
• An adjustable toll pricing system is used – prices depend on the day of the week.
• Overhead signage indicates current toll prices and whether the lane is open or closed. Tolls are collected through the vehicle’s ExpressToll account or License Plate Toll.
• Safety Enforcement Program is in effect. Sophisticated roadside technology is used to enforce the following rules:
  • No oversized vehicles (trucks or trailers) are allowed.
  • No weaving across the solid yellow line.
  • Only use the Express Lanes when they are open.
  • Know the rules on Colorado’s Mountain Express Lanes