06/30/2026
Heavy Fourth of July holiday traffic expected alongside high wildfire risks
Independence Day marks the traditional start of Colorado’s peak summer travel season
Statewide — The Colorado Department of Transportation reminds drivers to be prepared for additional traffic and longer travel times on mountain highways heading to recreational areas over the 4th of July holiday weekend, as well as heightened fire dangers and risks around the state.
With much of the state experiencing severe drought every county west of I-25 under fire restrictions, this summer continues to carry an extremely high risk of human-caused wildfires. Safe driving is essential to prevent sparks. Ultimately, safety starts before you leave home: planning your route, maintaining your vehicle, and understanding the risks are crucial steps this season. Download checklists and learn more about Drive Safe Colorado Summer at codot.gov/travel/summerdriving.
CDOT continues to work with partners to monitor active wildfires across the state, which can cause sudden highway closures. Knowing your route—and potential alternatives—is vital. Before heading out, always check COtrip Planner App and or the COtrip.org for real-time updates on road conditions, active incidents, and fire-related detours. While driving, watch for overhead electronic message signs for immediate safety alerts and changing instructions. Motorists should be prepared for low visibility near active fires and follow local sheriffs and fire districts for emergency updates.
Independence Day traditionally kicks off a period of above-average traffic in the high country, with summer tourism peaking over the next six to seven weeks. Because the holiday falls on a Saturday, westbound I-70 traffic is expected to peak the day prior—Friday, July 3—starting at 10 a.m. Return eastbound traffic along the I-70 Mountain Corridor will likely be heaviest Sunday afternoon into the evening. To limit the impacts, the ideal travel windows are passing through the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel before 9 a.m. on Friday morning, and returning eastbound through the tunnel around 6 p.m. on Sunday evening. Motorists can view a travel forecast from CDOT’s operations team on CDOT's YouTube Channel.
To avoid congestion, motorists heading west are encouraged to use shared transportation alternatives, Bustang, Pegasus, and Bustang Outrider provides service to many mountain areas, including Estes Park, and to cities and towns along the Front Range. Please visit www.ridebustang.com for more information.
To help minimize potential traffic delays and congestion, CDOT is suspending state-maintained construction and maintenance projects from midday Thursday through Sunday, July 5. The only exception for highway work is for emergency operations.
Bustang unfolds your travel possibilities across the state. 🗺️🚍 Whether you’re commuting or adventuring, we have a route to get you there. Find a trip today at RideBustang.com.
