The Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area will be slightly more exclusive this winter as a third of the parking spots off I-70 are now closed to prepare for construction, according to CBS Colorado.
“We are still trying to figure out the best way to manage it. People have been working well knowing that this is closed and that this is first come first serve situation… We want to accommodate everyone.” – Anne Gaspar, program manager for Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area
While, in the past, the parking lot typically filled with skiers and snowmobilers by around noon on weekends, those hoping to make the trip should now plan to find a spot much earlier.
“If you’re not up here early you might need to anticipate getting turned away.” – Anne Gaspar
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2023, so the closed parking area should be reopened by next winter.
Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area covers 55,000 acres with 119 miles of trails for both motorized and non-motorized visitors. For those over 16-years-old, a $10 day pass or $65 season pass is required for entrance, with 95% of collected fees going directly towards Vail Pass management.
Image Credit: CBS Colorado via YouTube