Denver, CO – The first full week of fall is set to bring a winter-like punch to parts of the Rockies, with accumulating mountain snow threatening roads and travel from Colorado into Montana through midweek. Higher passes in Colorado could see treacherous conditions Monday night into Tuesday, while Montana’s Absarokas and Bighorns brace for light snow above 9,000 feet starting tonight.
According to the National Weather Service, the bulk of Colorado’s snowfall will stay above 10,500 feet, but lighter accumulations may dip to 9,000 feet by late Monday. Drivers should prepare for potential slick travel on Berthoud Pass, I-70 near the Eisenhower Tunnel, and Loveland Pass, particularly during the Tuesday morning commute.
Farther north, NWS Billings reports that an advancing cold front will bring rain showers and gusty winds into the region tonight, with snow impacting the Absaroka and Beartooth ranges as well as the Bighorns. Accumulations above 9,000 feet may affect recreation and travel, while valleys including Livingston, Red Lodge, and Cody could see up to an inch of rain through Monday.
Travelers are urged to plan for winter driving conditions, avoid unnecessary high-elevation trips, and check cotrip.org or 511mt.net for live road updates. Hazardous alpine conditions may persist in Colorado into Wednesday, while Montana sees its heaviest impacts through Monday night.
