US Highway 160 over Wolf Creek Pass could reopen to limited traffic by the end of this week as the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) continues extensive repairs following two rounds of flooding in southwest Colorado. The reopening would restore an important travel route for visitors heading to Wolf Creek Ski Area as the ski season gets underway.
Extensive Damage Along Wolf Creek Pass
The highway, which connects Pagosa Springs and South Fork, has been closed since severe flooding damaged multiple sections of the 26-mile mountain corridor. According to CDOT, the second storm system on November 1 caused additional destruction at several locations, complicating an already extensive repair effort.
Crews have been working around the clock to stabilize the highway and restore access. On the east side of Wolf Creek Pass, particularly through an area known as The Narrows, workers are reconstructing sections of roadway where floodwaters washed out pavement and undermined the road along riverbanks. West of the summit, crews have been clearing extensive mud and rockslides.
Even if the highway reopens this week, motorists should not expect normal driving conditions. CDOT says additional work will be necessary to stabilize highway shoulders, address potential rockfall and install protective barriers before the route is considered safe for unrestricted travel.
“These roads will require speed reductions and extra traffic control, so we will need collaboration from the public to drive safely in these areas.” – CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew.
What This Means for Wolf Creek Ski Area
The department anticipates opening Wolf Creek Pass within a week, weather permitting. Drivers should expect one-lane alternating traffic through multiple construction zones, potentially creating delays for anyone traveling to or from Wolf Creek Ski Area.
Wolf Creek relies on US 160 as its primary access route from Pagosa Springs and South Fork. The ski area has been closed since November 1 due to the flooding and has not announced any updates on a reopening.
Other Southwest Colorado Highway Closures
Wolf Creek Pass is one of three major highway closures resulting from the flooding. US 160 at the Piedra River Bridge remains closed after floodwaters collapsed the bridge’s piers on October 31. CDOT is working toward installing a temporary bridge by January 2027.
CO 151 south of Chimney Rock Monument is also closed, with repairs expected before Thanksgiving.
Travelers heading to Wolf Creek should check COtrip.org for the latest road conditions, closures and traffic restrictions before making the drive.