Winter in Glenwood Springs is a magical season with snow-covered slopes, cozy lodges, and steamy hot springs. However, getting here safely in the winter can require a little extra preparation, especially when driving in the Colorado mountains.
Whether you’re navigating the highways and byways to Glenwood Springs to ski, soak, or sightsee, being prepared for winter driving conditions is essential to having a fantastic vacation experience in Colorado’s favorite hot springs and adventure town.
Prepare Your Vehicle For Mountain Driving
Before hitting the road, make sure your car can handle Colorado winter conditions.
• Where The Rubber Meets The Road. Snow tires have more tread to provide better traction in snowy and icy conditions. They are a must for skid-free, safe winter driving in the mountains.
• Fully Charged. Cold weather can drain a battery quickly. If yours shows signs of weakness, it’s a good idea to replace it before your trip. Better safe than stranded!
• All Clear To Go. Falling snow, slush, and ice can quickly reduce driver visibility, so keep that windshield clean! If needed replace blades and fill up with freeze-resistant windshield wiper washer fluid.
• In Case Travel Kit. Prepare for unexpected delays by packing essentials like a blanket, flashlight, extra clothes, food, water, a small shovel, and a bag of sand or non-clumping kitty litter for traction.
Know Before You Go
Winter weather can be unpredictable, but Colorado has resources to help drivers stay informed.
• State of the Roads. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has a website and mobile app, cotrip.org that provides real-time updates on road conditions, travel alerts, closures, and traction laws. CDOT’s camera feeds even allow you to view road and weather conditions along major routes like I-70.
• Fast Lane News Flash. In highly congested areas, highways including I-70 Mountain, Central 1-25, and C-470 have an Express Lane for faster travel. But speed comes at a price. The cost varies and prices are posted on overhead sign boards. Remember that breaking the Express Lane rules is an automatic $75 fine that increases to $150 after 20 days unpaid!
Skip Rush Hour Mentality
Slow down. By simply reducing your speed in winter weather conditions, you improve safety for yourself and others on the road.
• Take It Easy. In adverse weather, allow extra time to reach Glenwood Springs. Also, slow down and leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead to give yourself more braking distance on slick roads.
• Gear Down. When driving steep grades including on Vail Pass, downhill from Eisenhower Tunnel, or Floyd Hill, downshift into a lower gear rather than riding your brakes. You’ll maintain better control of your vehicle and reduce wear on your brakes.
• Fill The Tank. With winter conditions, higher altitudes and longer travel times, top off the tank when you have the chance. Remember too, it’s not just your car that can run out of gas, take care of yourself by refueling with food and hydration as needed along the way.
Arrive Safely And Ready To Recharge In Glenwood Springs
With the right preparation, you’ll arrive safe and sound in Glenwood Springs. Once here, the real adventure begins with hot springs, winter recreation, and much more. Learn more and make plans to visit Glenwood Springs this winter!
