Hahns Peak, Colorado – Mountain travel could turn dangerous by 6 a.m. Wednesday as heavy snow begins stacking up across the Elkhead and Park Mountains, quickly covering high-elevation roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 6 a.m. Wednesday until noon Thursday for the Elkhead and Park Mountains. Forecasters expect 6 to 15 inches of snow, with totals exceeding 20 inches at the highest elevations of the Park Range.
Snow will intensify through Wednesday morning around Columbine, Hahns Peak and Toponas, creating slick and snow-packed conditions on remote mountain routes and backcountry access roads. Steeper terrain and narrow passes could become nearly impassable during periods of heavier snowfall Wednesday afternoon and overnight.
Travelers using high-elevation roads near the Wyoming border should prepare for rapidly changing visibility and deepening snow cover. Plowing operations may struggle to keep pace during peak snowfall rates.
Officials urge drivers to postpone non-essential trips and carry winter survival gear, including warm clothing, food, water and a flashlight. Road conditions are available by calling 511.
Snow is expected to taper late Thursday morning, but difficult travel may linger into midday as crews work to clear accumulating snow. Additional advisories could follow if bands persist longer than expected.
