Rocky Mountain National Park‘s Trail Ridge Road officially closed to through vehicle traffic for the 2026-27 winter season on Friday, November 13. The seasonal closure marks the end of another year of driving access across one of Colorado’s most iconic mountain highways.
The National Park Service announced the closure Friday, with gates restricting through travel on both sides of the park. On the east side, the closure begins at Many Parks Curve, while vehicles can no longer travel beyond the Colorado River Trailhead on the west side.
Winter Access Remains Available
Although through vehicle traffic is prohibited, the closed section of Trail Ridge Road remains accessible to pedestrians, bicyclists and leashed pets throughout the winter. However bicycles and leashed pets must remain on the road itself and are not permitted on surrounding trails or tundra.
Visitors venturing onto the road should be prepared for potentially dangerous mountain conditions. Trail Ridge Road reaches elevations above 12,000 feet, with 11 miles of roadway sitting above 11,500 feet. The exposed highway features limited guardrails and no shoulders, making winter conditions particularly challenging.
Drifting snow, powerful winds and below-freezing temperatures are common above 10,000 feet. Conditions can change rapidly, so anyone visiting the area should plan accordingly.
When Will Trail Ridge Road Reopen?
Trail Ridge Road typically reopens to through vehicle traffic during the final week of May, depending on weather and snow conditions. The road reopened on Friday, May 29, in 2026.
The seasonal closure does not mean all scenic driving opportunities within Rocky Mountain National Park have disappeared. Bear Lake Road and Endovalley Road remain open during the winter, providing visitors with alternative ways to explore the park.
On the east side, motorists can still travel along Trail Ridge Road to Hidden Valley and Many Parks Curve. On the west side, visitors can drive from the Grand Lake Entrance to the Colorado River Trailhead.