How to Drive Safely Through Colorado’s Mountain Roads Year-Round

Colorado’s mountain roads are stunning — but they’re not for the unprepared. Here’s how to stay safe year-round.

1. Master the Basics

- Use low gear on descents
- Pulse your brakes — don’t ride them
- Stay right and yield to uphill traffic
- Use pull-offs if you're holding up cars

2. Seasonal Hazards

Summer:
- Afternoon storms
- Rockfall
- Wildlife crossings

Fall:
- Early snow at altitude
- Leaf-peeping traffic
- Short daylight

Winter:
- Ice and snow
- Chain laws
- Avalanche zones

Spring:
- Runoff flooding
- Mudslides
- Melting pavement seams

3. Chain and Traction Laws

I-70 and major passes = rules from Oct–May.

You need:
- AWD/4WD
- OR snow tires
- OR chains or traction devices

Violation = fines. Check COTrip.org for active alerts.

4. Vehicle Tips

Drive:
- AWD or 4WD
- Good tread snow-rated tires
- High clearance if going off-road

Avoid:
- Rear-wheel drive sedans
- Summer tires in winter
- Underinflated tires (elevation drops pressure)

5. Descending Without Killing Brakes

- Shift to “L” or “2” before long hills
- Brake gently in pulses
- Pull over if brakes overheat

Watch for runaway truck ramps — you don’t want to need one.

6. Wildlife + Rockfall

Expect:
- Moose, elk, deer on road
- Falling rocks in canyons
- Cyclists on shoulderless routes

Drive with headlights on and eyes up.

7. Fuel + Emergency Prep

Gas is limited above 9,000 ft.

Fill up in:
- Gunnison
- Durango
- Leadville
- Aspen

Pack:
- Water, snacks
- Blanket, flashlight
- Ice scraper, phone charger

8. Narrow or Steep Road Cautions

Careful on:
- Million Dollar Highway
- Loveland Pass
- Trail Ridge Road

Use turnouts. Don’t tailgate. Expect sudden slowdowns.

9. Don’t Trust GPS Alone

Maps may:
- Suggest seasonal roads that are closed
- Miss avalanche risks
- Send you on dirt roads not fit for sedans

Always check road status via CDOT.

10. Final Tip

Colorado’s mountain driving is spectacular if you do it smart. Prep your car, watch your speed, and remember: it’s not a race — it’s a scenic journey.