ESTES PARK, Colo — Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park has closed to through traffic for the season.
The high-elevation route closed for the season Friday. While this means visitors can no longer drive the full length, sections of the road that lead to popular winter destinations are still open.
Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States. It climbs to 12,183 feet and connects the towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake.
The road has few guardrails and no shoulders, and 11 miles of it are above 11,500 feet. In the winter, drifting snow, strong winds and below-freezing temperatures create hazardous driving conditions.
Trail Ridge Road is currently closed at Rainbow Curve on the east side of RMNP and at the Colorado River Trailhead on the west side of the park. Closure points on the road may fluctuate, however the road is closed to through travel for the season.
Some Rocky Mountain National Park destinations remain open including:
- Bear Lake Road
- Endovalley Road
- Trail Ridge Road on the west side of RMNP from Grand Lake Entrance to the Colorado River Trailhead
- Trail Ridge Road on the east side of RMNP to Rainbow Curve
Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road will remain open to bicycles and leashed pets through Nov. 30. Beginning on Dec. 1, only pedestrians, snowshoers and skiers will be allowed beyond the closed gates.
Trail Ridge Road typically opens each year during the last week in May and stays open as long as the weather permits.
In 2024, Trail Ridge Road opened on Friday, May 31. Last year, Trail Ridge Road closed for the season on Oct. 18.
Old Fall River Road in Rocky Mountain National Park closed to vehicles on Oct. 8 this year.
Rocky Mountain National Park road information can be found at nps.gov/romo or at 970-586-1206.
