Clear Creek County is making good on its warning to visitors parking along Guanella Pass Road as the fall leaf-peeping season gets underway in Colorado.
Following the county’s recent installation of additional No Parking signs along Guanella Pass Road, officials say they issued 25 parking citations during the past weekend. The enforcement comes as large numbers of visitors are expected to travel through the popular mountain corridor to see the changing aspens.
Guanella Pass Parking Enforcement Underway
Clear Creek County said its enforcement efforts will target several different parking violations along Guanella Pass Road. Vehicles parked in designated No Parking zones can receive a citation, while drivers can also be ticketed if any portion of their vehicle is positioned on the roadway.
The county is also enforcing rules requiring vehicles to be parked in the proper direction. Drivers who park facing the wrong direction can receive a citation as well.
The county highlighted one of the citations issued over the weekend in its announcement, using the opportunity to remind visitors that parking restrictions are being actively enforced. The cost of a citation is $87.50.
Guanella Pass is a popular destination during Colorado’s fall foliage season, with visitors traveling into the mountains to see the aspen trees change color. Increased traffic and limited parking can create significant congestion along mountain roads, particularly during busy weekends.
The county’s latest enforcement effort follows its recent addition of No Parking signs along portions of Guanella Pass Road. The signage was put in place ahead of the expected fall crowds and serves as a warning that roadside parking will not be tolerated in restricted areas.
Visitors heading toward Guanella Pass should pay close attention to posted signs and make sure their vehicles are completely outside the roadway.
Clear Creek County Encourages Visitors to Spend Money Locally
Clear Creek County also encouraged visitors to explore other attractions in the area rather than spending $87.50 on a parking citation.
Officials pointed to the county’s restaurants, retail businesses and recreational opportunities as alternatives for visitors looking to spend money during their trip.
With fall foliage season approaching its busiest stretch, the latest round of citations serves as a clear warning to drivers heading toward Guanella Pass. Parking illegally could turn an inexpensive scenic drive into an $87.50 mistake.