Thanks to a coordinated effort between Clear Creek County Road and Bridge, Park County Road and Bridge, and the United States Forest Service, Guanella Pass will officially open early for the summer season at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 16th. Due to unseasonably low snow levels, crews were able to clear the route significantly earlier than the typical Memorial Day Weekend opening, providing residents and visitors with early access to the Scenic Byway.

While conditions currently allow for travel, visitors should be aware that the pass remains subject to temporary closures if spring snowstorms create hazardous driving conditions.

Additionally, as visitors head out to enjoy the byway, we want to remind the public that Clear Creek County Ordinance #14 regulates parking on all county roads and rights-of-way. This ordinance requires that all vehicles be parked fully off the paved portion of the roadway. Proper parking is essential to maintaining traffic flow and ensuring that emergency vehicles can pass through the corridor safely.

The Guanella Pass Scenic Byway is 24 miles of picturesque views and climbs to above treeline. On it, visitors can see multiple mountain peaks, including Mount Bierstadt, Mount Blue Sky, and Argentine Pass. It is typically open from Memorial Day Weekend to the week of Thanksgiving.

“This early opening is a testament to the seamless partnership between Clear Creek County, Park County, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service," Clear Creek County Public Works Director Stoy Streepey said. "We hope visitors enjoy this rare, early access to the pass, and we ask that everyone helps us keep the route safe and accessible by following parking regulations and staying prepared for changing mountain weather.”