Significant spring snowfall and winter-like weather on the high peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park have slowed snow removal operations on Trail Ridge Road, and as a result the popular tourist attraction that crosses the Continental Divide will not be open in time for Memorial Day.
New snow has been accumulating this week and temperatures have been below freezing, according to the park’s public information officer, Kyle Patterson. Because of the adverse conditions that have included high winds, Patterson said it is too soon to predict when the road will be open.
Pedestrians and bicyclists may use sections of the road that have been cleared, as long as they adhere to closures put up to keep them separated from plowing operations.
It’s going to be a busy weekend at the park. The three reservation campgrounds in the park are already sold out, and the Timber Creek Campground on the west side of the park is on a first-come, first-served basis. Patterson said backcountry users should be prepared to encounter snow, ice, slush and mud. The Bear Lake Trailhead is covered by 35 inches of snow.
