Crews battle drifts to reopen Trail Ridge Road

According to officials at Rocky Mountain National Park, recent snowfall has thrown a curveball at crews working to reopen the iconic Trail Ridge Road by the typical Memorial Day Weekend date. As of now, the date for the full reopening of the road remains up in the air.

Snowplow crews are currently working to move snow drifts that range from two to five feet deep at an elevation of up to 11,796 feet above sea level. While the possibility of potential delays in reopening may disrupt some plans, park officials were also sure to note how happy they were with the additional and “much needed” moisture.

Officials say the public should stay tuned for details regarding when the full thru-route of Trail Ridge Road will reopen. The status of the road can also be found by calling 970-586-1222.

While more than a foot of snow landed in the area in recent days, another big snow is unlikely.

Trail Ridge Road is perhaps the best-known scenic drive in Colorado, cutting through Rocky Mountain National Park. It stretches for 48 miles, connecting the Grand Lake entrance to the Estes Park entrance, traveling over the Continental Divide. A higher portion of the road closes when winter weather hits, with the drive typically open in its entirety from late May to mid- October.