Winter Driving in the Colorado Rocky Mountains

Driving through the Colorado Rocky Mountains in winter is a breathtaking experience, with snowy peaks and frosty landscapes creating a stunning backdrop for your journey. But this beauty comes with challenges. Winter driving in Colorado’s high elevations requires careful preparation and extra caution to ensure a safe trip.

Colorado’s mountain roads can be tricky to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with extreme winter conditions. Steep grades, sharp curves, and unpredictable weather are commonplace in the Rockies. Snow and ice can appear suddenly when temperatures drop, making roads slippery and reducing visibility in minutes.

Proper preparation is critical for a safe winter drive through the Colorado mountains. This means equipping your vehicle with the right gear and knowing how to handle various winter road conditions. With the proper knowledge and preparation—the same principles we apply to our fleet and driver training—you can confidently navigate Colorado’s winter roads and soak in the magnificent mountain scenery.

At Blue Sky Limo, we’ve navigated these challenging Colorado winter roads for years as the premier luxury airport shuttle provider for all major Rocky Mountain resort destinations. Our experienced drivers have safely transported countless visitors through these snow-covered mountain passes and icy highways, giving us unique insights into the intricacies of winter driving in Colorado.

Understanding Colorado’s Winter Climate

Colorado’s high elevation and mountainous terrain significantly impact its winter climate, leading to distinct weather patterns and demanding driving conditions. The Rocky Mountains in Colorado reach heights exceeding 14,000 feet (4,267 meters). For every 1,000 feet (305 meters) of elevation gain, the temperature drops by approximately 3-5°F (1.7-2.8°C). This means the high mountain passes are considerably colder than the lower valleys and plains.

Snowfall can occur at any time in the high country, even during the summer months, while winter often brings heavy snowfall measured in feet rather than inches. The strong winds at high elevations lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility for drivers. Mountain weather conditions can change rapidly as storms move through, potentially catching drivers off guard.

The Colorado Rocky Mountains are known for harsh winters that create unique challenges for drivers. Heavy snowfall is expected, with some areas receiving over 300 inches of snow annually. Freezing temperatures cause frequent ice formation on the roads, with black ice posing a particularly hazardous threat due to its near invisibility. On steep mountainsides, there is also the risk of avalanches, which can block roads and bury vehicles.

Strong winds can produce ground blizzards and rapidly create deep snowdrifts, rendering roads impassable. During periods of intense snowfall, whiteout conditions with near-zero visibility may occur. Given the severe and fast-changing weather patterns, it’s crucial for drivers to closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for abrupt shifts in conditions when traveling through the Colorado high country in winter.

Preparing Your Vehicle

Thorough vehicle preparation is essential for safer winter driving in the mountains. Start with a maintenance check-up before the cold weather hits. Make sure your battery, brakes, heating and cooling system, and electrical system are in good working order. Check all fluid levels, including antifreeze, which should be rated for the coldest temperatures.

Tires are critical. Install winter tires with a deep tread designed for better traction on snow and ice. All-season tires will work in a pinch, but winter tires provide optimum performance. Ensure tires are properly inflated, as tire pressure drops in colder temperatures. Carry tire chains and how to put them on, as they may be required on some mountain passes during heavy snowfall.

Equip your vehicle with an ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, sand, or kitty litter for traction aid and extra windshield washer fluid. Replace your wiper blades with winter blades that resist snow and ice buildup. Make sure your heater and defroster are functioning correctly to keep windows clear.

Packing a Winter Emergency Kit

Even if you’re well-prepared, unexpected emergencies can occur. Consider putting together a winter survival kit and keeping it in your car, especially if you can get stranded in wintry conditions. Include the following essentials:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Warm blankets and extra clothing like hats, socks and gloves
• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
• First-aid kit and necessary medications
• Battery jumper cables
• Flares or reflective triangles to signal for help
• Battery or crank-powered radio to receive emergency broadcasts
• Spare cell phone charger

In addition, always keep your gas tank at least half full if you need to run the engine to stay warm if you’re stranded. Also, before heading out on your trip, let someone know your travel plans and intended route.

Driving Techniques for Snow and Ice

Adjusting your driving habits to maintain control on slippery winter roads is essential. Slow down and allow extra travel time. The posted speed limits are for ideal road conditions. In winter weather, decrease your speed and increase your following distance behind other vehicles to account for longer stopping distances.

Remember to avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or turning, as these actions can cause your tires to lose traction. Instead, gently pressure the gas and brake pedals and steer smoothly. Anticipate turns and stops so you can slow down gradually. When climbing hills, build momentum on the flat stretch before the hill, and avoid stopping on the incline.

Be extra careful when driving on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, as these areas are prone to freezing and may have black ice. If you start to skid, remain calm. Take your foot off the gas and steer gently in the direction you want your vehicle to go. Avoid oversteering. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply firm and steady pressure. If not, gently pump the brakes.

Know Colorado’s Traction Laws

The state of Colorado implemented traction laws to improve safety on snowy and icy roads. Passenger vehicles must have either snow tires, tires with the mud/snow (M+S) designation, or a four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicle. Tread depth must be at least 3/16″. Cars that do not meet these requirements may be fined. During severe winter storms, vehicles may require chains or alternate traction devices. Check road conditions and signage to determine whether your car meets requirements on a particular route. (For more details, please see our article: [Colorado Traction Laws Explained])

Planning Your Route

Plan your route carefully when embarking on a winter drive through the Colorado mountains. Check weather forecasts and road conditions for the areas you will travel through. If there are winter storm warnings, consider changing your plans.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is an excellent resource for road conditions and closures. Visit COtrip.org or download the CDOT mobile app for current road conditions, snowplow locations, travel alerts, and real-time traffic images. You can also call 511 anywhere in Colorado for automated road condition reports.

Some of the most challenging winter drives are on major mountain corridors like I-70 through the Rockies. Two particularly notorious stretches are the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels between Silverthorne and Denver and Vail Pass just east of Vail. Both sections climb to over 10,000 feet and are prone to heavy snowfall, strong winds, and low visibility.

If traveling to the ski resorts along I-70, be aware that Vail Pass and the tunnels close during significant storms. In the event of a closure, alternative routes to the major ski areas can get you to the slopes while avoiding the worst weather. Regardless of your route, be sure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.

If You Get Stranded

Even the most prepared drivers can get stranded in a severe storm. If you are stuck or in an accident, stay with your vehicle unless you can see a building nearby. Run the engine for heat about once an hour, ensuring the tailpipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Crack a window on the downwind side for ventilation. To make yourself visible to rescuers, tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna or window. If possible, keep your dome light on at night. If you have flares or reflective triangles, put them out. Be sure to conserve your phone battery in case you need to call for help. If you are stranded for an extended period without assistance, consider texting your location and situation to a friend or family member who can relay the information to emergency services.

The Takeaway

Winter driving in the Colorado mountains can be a wonderful experience with the proper preparation and knowledge. Outfit your car for winter conditions, plan by checking weather and road conditions, adjust your driving to navigate slick roads and carry an emergency kit just in case. Most importantly, if the weather seems too severe, be willing to change your plans. Safety should always be the top priority. With some flexibility and preparation, you can enjoy Colorado’s stunning winter scenery from the comfort of your car.