Colorado is well-known for its glorious highlands, alpine villages, and skiing resorts. Still, several dangerous roads in Colorado are prone to accidents. The weather conditions on some of these roads make them even more dangerous. In addition, speeding or reckless driving on these roads can increase the chances of a severe accident. On this page, we have highlighted some of the most dangerous roads in Colorado and why you should contact a Colorado car accident lawyer if you suffer an accident on them.
The Denver Beltway is notorious for being a car accident magnet, and that could be because of the lack of guardrails on the road. Yet, this road is popular with tourists and locals alike.
Denver is one of the most densely populated cities in Colorado, which means you should expect a lot of heavy traffic if you plan on driving through the Beltway. The road can be very steep at certain points, posing more risk to the drivers; however, it is not long at 27 miles total distance. Drivers should pay extra attention when it rains or snows, as the road can get slippery.
Front Range Corridor
The I-25 Corridor, also known as the Front Range Corridor, is one of the most dangerous roads in the state. It is approximately 200 miles long and bisects the state of Colorado. Since the highway passes through at least 80% of the entire state’s population, it is no wonder that the road is typically busy, especially from the north of Fort Collins.
Although the highway has a 75 mph speed limit, that might be too high considering the design of the road and the number of vehicles operating on the route. Reckless driving, excessive speed, and congestion are all factors that can contribute to car accidents. That could be why 200 fatalities were recorded on the Front Range Corridor in the last four years.
Southern Passage
Highway 160 covers the southern side of Colorado. This road is also known as the Southern Passage. The road includes plenty of tight turns and elevations going as high as 10,857 feet. Driving at these elevations during winter poses more threats to drivers. In addition, the Southern Passage is notorious for the most recorded DUI arrests, over 80 fatal accidents, and is nationally ranked 32nd in fatalities resulting from DUI.
The Million Dollar Highway
The U.S. Highway 550 is approximately 10,000 feet high. It is also known as the Red Mountain Pass or the Million Dollar Highway. The highway has stunning views, but it would be perilous to enjoy them while driving because of the steep roads. The road is about 25 miles long and is a shortcut to avoid driving through the cities of Silverton and Ouray.
Although the Colorado Department of Transportation strives to maintain this highway throughout the winter, the persistent icy conditions can still impact its safety. In addition, this road has a limited amount of guardrails, making it more dangerous to drive through, especially with the steep cliffs. Even a slight weather change can make the road significantly more dangerous.
Resort Gateway
Like most routes, the Resort Highway can be high-risk during the winter, especially because it has several twisting turns and steep grades. Typically, people headed toward ski resorts use this highway because it is the primary road from Denver, so it can get congested when it snows.
Car accidents are common on this road as the elevations are very steep from the starting point in Denver. The route takes around 90 minutes to cross, but it can effectively turn into a 3-hour drive during summer because it is used for interstate and local travel. The whiteout conditions in winter are not any better because driving at 55 mph can be hazardous.
Pikes Peak Highway
The Pikes Peak Highway is right outside Colorado Springs and has a summit of 14,115 ft. It offers some breathtaking views of Colorado but is also one of the most dangerous roads in the country. The entire route evolves from winding and long turns to tight ones. Like other dangerous roads in Colorado, the Pikes Peak Highway also lacks adequate guardrails, making it more hazardous for drivers to take turns on steep cliffs.
The best way to travel this route is to drive slowly, limiting the risk of accidents or unpredictable road conditions. There is also a temperature checkpoint for brakes after you have descended halfway through the mountain. Brakes tend to heat up with excessive use, and as a result, they can underperform.
Rabbit Ears Pass
The Rabbit Ears Pass can get a lot of snow during the winter. However, it is still one of the state’s most famous spots for hikers. It is approximately 9,426 ft in elevation and has particularly steep drop-offs that can make it dangerous for drivers to operate their vehicles. It connects Steamboat Springs and Kremmling and covers 56 square miles.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the few mountains with a paved access road that leads tourists as high as 14,000 ft. It is a massive tourist attraction, but the byway also features huge cliff drops with narrow roads. In addition, drivers should be on the lookout for inclement weather because the absence of guardrails makes driving more challenging.
Anyone traveling the Mount Evans Scenic Byway should also be on the lookout for wildlife. Although the route is shut down during winter to prevent serious accidents, it can be just as dangerous in summer with more vehicles and crossing wildlife.
Imogene Pass
People traveling south from Ouray to Telluride typically access this pass to reach the renowned skiing resorts, but driving on the Imogene Pass can be tricky. This route is known to be very narrow at certain points, and if that is not enough of a challenge, it also has an elevation of 13,000 ft. In addition, a large part of the route has high winds and icy roads, making it a tough drive.
Loveland Pass – Highway 6
During winter, most people prefer taking Highway 6 to go to the mountains rather than being stuck in traffic on I-70. It is a 17.5-mile round trip and approximately 11,990 ft high. The highway has many steep and narrow turns, which is challenging for most drivers. As a result, accidents and traffic jams are common on the Loveland Pass.
Gold Belt Scenic Byway
The Gold Belt Scenic Byway is a mountain road that features steep cliffs and red canyons. This scenic mountain pass connects towns like Canon City, Florence, Cripple Creek, and Florissant. Some parts are only wide enough for one vehicle at a time, so exercise caution. These routes can become difficult to maneuver in an instant. This route features one-way narrow tunnels through the mountains and can prove fatal to those who don’t exercise caution.
Coal Bank Pass
Coal Bank Pass is a 10,640-foot section of the Million Dollar Highway between Silverton, Colorado, and Durango, Colorado. This pass goes by Engineer Mountain and Potato Hill along its climb. The elevation isn’t outlandish, but the air is thin and this can be an issue for newcomers. The Coal Bank pass was carved out into the side of the Rocky Mountains and is surrounded by woods in all directions.
The Coal Bank Pass is commonly closed due to avalanches and other treacherous driving conditions. Since many areas on this pass don’t feature guard rails and the cliffs are steep, it’s imperative to operate this road with caution.
Red Mountain Pass
Red Mountain Pass is a 11,018-ft section of the Million Dollar Highway. Red Mountain Pass connects Silverton and Ouray and is considered one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado because it’s extremely narrow. The road is so narrow that there is no room for guardrails. Large vehicles should avoid this pass at all costs because of the steep cliffs on either side of this mountain road.
Oh My God Road – Two Brothers Road
Oh My God Road, also known as Two Brothers Road, is a 9,383-ft climb connecting Idaho Springs at I-70 to Central City. Oh My God Road earned its name because of its narrow roads and steep cliffs. If you aren’t confident to navigate this route, there is another, often safer route up Central City Parkway.
Black Bear Pass
Black Bear Road is an infamous jeep trail that climbs from the summit of Red Mountain Pass on U.S. Highway 550 to Telluride. Black Bear Road peaks at Black Bear Pass (12,840 feet). The route is a one-way road down from the top of the highest waterfall in Colorado—Bridal Veil Falls. From there, it is a two-way road down to the town of Telluride and can be hiked, biked, or jeeped by experienced travelers only. Rental cars are not permitted on this road.
CanAm Highway
CanAm Highway is an almost 2000-mile-long road stretching south-north from El Paso, Texas, to La Ronge, Saskatchewan, Canada. This highway runs through six U.S. states (Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, and North Dakota) and is considered one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado.
Monarch Pass
Monarch Pass is an 11,312-ft mountain pass close to Pueblo and Colorado Springs. Monarch Pass is a small mountain for skiing in the winter but the journey up and down the slopes is filled with winding mountainous roads. However, each view through the 12,000+ ft peaks and valleys surrounding the mountain is pristine. When traveling Monarch Pass, it’s imperative to stay alert since the road conditions may prove difficult in the winter.
Wolf Creek Pass
Wolf Creek Pass is a 10,856-ft part of highway US 160 between South Fork and Pagosa Spring. Wolf Creek Pass is infamous because it’s full of switchbacks, blind turns, precarious conditions, and steep hills. The incredible views are surrounded by mountains and make this picturesque passageway worth traveling, but it can be treacherous in inclement weather conditions.
There were 54 semi-truck crashes on Wolf Creek Pass between 2015 and 2021. Three accidents were fatal. Many of the passes accidents occur at the switchback curve near the Wolf Creek scenic outlook. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) urges travelers to be weary on this route and to inspect their brakes at the summit before descending the eight-mile mountain pass. If you were in an accident here, contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Colorado.
Independence Pass
Independence Pass can be so dangerous that this two-lane 12,095-foot pass closes for the winter for the safety of the public and CDOT crews. Oversized vehicles are prohibited from using Independence Pass at any time because of its narrow and winding roads with steep inclines.
When traveling Independence Pass, use extra caution. It can be difficult to see around the mountainous curves. Rockfall, tight curves, single late segments, and recreational vehicles entering and leaving the roadway present additional challenges.
Schofield Pass
Schofield Pass is a 15-mile stretch of road that connects Marble and Crested Butte. The Crested Butte Mountain Pass was formerly known as the “S.O.B” trail because it’s challenging to traverse. Each year, Schofield Pass is the site of multiple serious incidents. Fourteen individuals have died from going over the edge on this shelf road.
Berthoud Pass
Berthoud Pass is often referred to as “White Knuckle Drive” because of its steep roads. Although it touts some amazing views, this pass is only recommended in the summer months because driving here in the winter months may prove too dangerous.
Colfax Avenue
Denver County is one of the most dangerous places to drive in Colorado according to CDOT. The most dangerous road in Denver County is Colfax Avenue. Denver’s East Colfax Avenue is notorious as one of the main 50-mile roads that run from east to west through the Denver, Colorado, metropolitan area and is known as the longest continuous commercial street in America. Colfax Avenue can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders and pedestrians.
Argentine Pass
Argentine Pass is a 13,207-ft road that connects Clear Creek County to Summit County. Argentine Pass is a narrow, poorly maintained, mostly dirt road. It’s important to have four-wheel drive and other emergency provisions like tire chains and shovels before attempting to take this Colorado path in the winter.
Colorado Traffic and Congestion
Colorado’s highways were designed for 3.5 million people, but now there are more than 4.2 million licensed drivers. This could mean more traffic congestion during rush hour simply due to the number of vehicles on the road. Here is a list of Colorado’s most congested roads and highways based on the measured volume of traffic compared to its capacity:
SH 470 in Littleton, Lone Tree from Santa Fe Dr. to Yosemite St.
I-25 in Denver from Hampden Ave. to Speer Blvd.
SH 83 (Parker Rd.) in Aurora from Hampden Ave. to Dartmouth Ave.
SH 88 (Arapahoe Rd.) in Greenwood Village, Aurora from I-25 to SH 83 (Parker Rd.)
I-25 in Lone Tree, Denver from Lincoln Ave. to SH 285 (Hampden)
I-70 in West Vail, Vail from Chamonix Rd. to Vail Rd.
SH 85 (Sante Fe Dr.) Littleton from Blakeland Dr. to Mineral Ave.
SH 24 (Powers Blvd.) in Colorado Springs from Fountain Blvd. to Platte Ave.
SH 85 (Santa Fe Dr.) in Englewood, Denver from Hampden Ave. to I-25
SH 287 in Westminster from SH 36 to 104th Ave.
Common Causes of Accidents On Dangerous Roads
Distracted Driving: There is no room for distracted driving on icy, narrow, mountain roads. Distracted driving often results in severe injuries as the driver may not react in time to reduce the impact of the collision.
DUI: a drunk driver is the biggest threat to all road users, and that threat is elevated when the weather and road conditions are challenging.
Speeding and Reckless Driving: Many highways have a speed limit to ensure safe driving, and any driver who does not comply is at an increased risk of a car accident.
How to Drive On a Dangerous Road?
Regular Inspection of the Vehicle
Regular vehicle inspection can help you identify any components or systems that need attention. Safety-related components, such as brakes and lights need extra attention if you drive on dangerous roads.
You should also regularly check the tire pressure, as underinflation or overinflation can be hazardous. You should also keep a roadside emergency kit with you in case of any inconvenience. If you don’t carry the tools or have the experience to inspect your vehicle, it is best to get assistance from a professional mechanic.
Plan Your Route Carefully
Avoiding certain dangerous roads in inclement weather can save you from accidents. A longer route might be safer in those cases. Weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, but it helps to check the forecast before leaving. In addition, some roads in Colorado might not have cell phone coverage. This means that if you get involved in an accident or get lost, you might not be able to contact anyone for help.
Maintain Distance
If there is traffic, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Icy and slippery roads can lead to accidents, so it is best to keep your vehicle at a safe distance that gives you enough time to apply the brakes. Also, always use low gears while driving downhill to maintain control.
Pay Attention to Road Signs
Checking road signs can help you avoid many potential hazards, such as rock falls or wildlife. Always take your time to read the road signs and markings before proceeding.
Do Not Overtake
Another risky thing to do on a dangerous road is to overtake another vehicle or cross into another lane on a blind spot if there is no traffic. Overtaking without clear visibility of oncoming traffic could be life-threatening.
How Can a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer Help?
Car accidents are common on roads that are steep, narrow, or tend to get a lot of rain and snow, and there are plenty of such roads in Colorado. The most common types of car accidents on dangerous roads include rear-end collisions, rollover accidents, and multi-vehicle pileups.
Car accidents on dangerous roads can result in severe injuries or death. In addition, serious car accidents can impact your ability to earn an income. You may also have to pay substantial medical expenses that could add to your stress and prevent you from focusing on recovering from the accident. Therefore, you should contact a Castle Rock car accident lawyer after a crash. Your lawyer can guide you on your legal options after the accident, such as seeking a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or negotiating with your insurance company for maximum compensation. Call Mountain States Injury Law today!
