CDOT says bike path between East Vail, Copper still unsafe to ride

Crews hope to clear path of ice, snow by Memorial Day

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is reminding cyclists in Eagle and Summit counties that the Vail bike path remains closed until late May or early June between east Vail, mile marker (MM) 180, to Copper Mountain, MM 195.

There have been multiple reports in the past week of cyclists attempting to ride on the path, which is unsafe due to its current condition.

The current condition of the Vail bike path (CDOT photo).

Although there have been warm temperatures for the last week or so, CDOT reminds cyclists that many areas of the path are still covered in snow and ice after the late spring storms. Although crews are working daily to clear the path in an attempt to reopen it by Memorial Day, the melting snow and ice create slick conditions and there are also risks for mudslides as the area surrounding the path melts.

Furthermore, crews are operating loud snow removal equipment and have difficulty seeing or hearing cyclists who try to navigate the path, adding an extra danger for riders trying to pass through.

In addition to the work of CDOT maintenance crews, engineering crews are preparing for a project to begin in late May or early June that will resurface the path from Copper to the summit of Vail Pass and will repair a timber bridge to help improve safety for riders. Although crews may be visible, they are the only individuals authorized to be on the path at this time.

For the safety of the public, CDOT urges cyclists to utilize safer paths away from the high country until the paths at higher elevations can be properly cleared and prepared for summer use.

To receive real-time updates about road conditions in your area, visit www.coloradodot.info and click on the green cell phone icon in the upper right hand corner of the page.