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Jan 23, 2025
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Major Road Closure Alert: Prepare for a 14er Adventure Detour Until 2026!


Major Road Closure Alert: Prepare for a 14er Adventure Detour Until 2026!

Major Changes Ahead: Colorado’s Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway to Close Until 2026!

As summer bids farewell, one of Colorado's most cherished mountain roads prepares to shutter its gates for an extensive overhaul, leaving many adventurers and nature enthusiasts heartbroken. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway will officially close its access on September 3rd, marking a significant pause in the travel plans of countless visitors.

What You Need to Know About the Closure

  • Duration: The road will remain closed until at least Memorial Day weekend in 2026, pending weather conditions.
  • Location: Closure extends from the gate near the Forest Service welcome station all the way to the summit parking area.
  • Access: All vehicular, biking, and pedestrian traffic will be prohibited during this time.

Though the scenic byway will be out of reach, the hiking trails in the vicinity will remain open, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore the beauty of the mountains on foot.

Why the Closure?

The decision to close this picturesque route stems from essential construction and repair work aimed at reconstructing a crucial 0.7 miles of the road near the Summit Lake parking lot. This significant project is spearheaded by the Federal Highways Administration's Federal Lands Access Program, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe and accessible roadways for future visitors.

Planning Your Visit

For those hoping to traverse the byway during the Labor Day weekend before its closure, be prepared to secure a time-entry reservation. These permits are available up to two days in advance and are in high demand, with over 45,000 vehicles already booked for the upcoming 2024 season.

The Name Change: A Cultural Shift

Formerly known as Mount Evans, this majestic peak now bears the name Mount Blue Sky. The renaming was a significant decision made by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names in September 2023, in response to a request from the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. This change symbolizes a step towards acknowledging historical injustices and honoring the cultural heritage of the original inhabitants of this land.

Looking Ahead

As construction progresses, there is hope that Mount Blue Sky will reopen in 2026, welcoming visitors back to experience its breathtaking views and rich history. Until then, adventurers are encouraged to explore the many hiking trails that remain accessible in the area.

What do you think?

  • Is the closure of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway a necessary step, or could the construction have been scheduled differently?
  • How do you feel about the name change from Mount Evans to Mount Blue Sky?
  • What other locations do you think should undergo a name change to honor indigenous cultures?
  • Do you believe the time-entry reservation system is effective for managing tourist traffic?
  • What are your thoughts on the balance between preserving nature and providing access to the public?

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Marcus Johnson
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Marcus Johnson

An accomplished journalist with over a decade of experience in investigative reporting. With a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Marcus began his career in local news in Washington, D.C. His tenacity and skill have led him to uncover significant stories related to social justice, political corruption, & community affairs. Marcus’s reporting has earned him multiple accolades. Known for his deep commitment to ethical journalism, he often speaks at universities & seminars about the integrity in media

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