Heavy Snow Forces Closures in Rocky Mountain National Park

Heavy snowfall in northern Colorado today has forced the closure of roads and facilities in Rocky Mountain National Park.

As a result of power, heat and phone outages in different areas of the park, both the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and the Fall River Visitor Center on the east side of the park closed at noon today. The Kawuneeche Visitor Center on the west side will remain open.

According to the latest SNOTEL reading at Bear Lake, roughly 18 inches of snow has fallen since last night. The latest forecast calls for another 3-7 inches this afternoon and tonight. Temperatures are falling and winds are expected to increase this afternoon to 20 miles per hour. Overnight temperatures are forecasted to be in the low teens.

According to park officials, there is limited access to portions of the east side of the park. Currently, Trail Ridge Road is closed at Deer Ridge Junction. Normally at this time of year it's open to Many Parks Curve. Bear Lake Road is closed at Park & Ride. Park snowplows continue to work on the roads, but park visitors are reminded that plows do not operate between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Hazardous driving conditions exist in the park.

For the latest weather updates and forecasts, please click here.


Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com