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Local Driving Conditions for Durango
Tips and Tricks for Driving in Durango.
Durango, CO
Durango is situated along the majestic San
Juan Skyway. If you plan to take a trip along this route or hike one
of the many backcountry trails along the way, it's a wise idea to check
the road conditions and weather forecast before you do. The weather in
the high country is notorious for changing quickly. For current road
conditions, call the Colorado Department of Transportation Hotline at
1-877-315-7623, (303) 639-1111 or visit them online at www.cotrip.org.
For current Durango
weather, click here.
Durango Driving Conditions & Tips
In the winter, the snowfall around the Durango
/ Purgatory Mountain Ski Resort can often make driving a little
more difficult. Here are some
tips for your winter driving in Durango, Colorado.
- Always keep the top half of your gas tank full. It
can give you better traction and gives you a bigger margin of error
if you get stuck and have to keep the engine running periodically to
keep warm.
- If you are stuck in a serious storm, do not leave
your car. Run the engine periodically and wait for help.
- Carry blankets, water, a flashlight, a shovel, some
nutrition bars or even candy bars for sustenance. Winterize your vehicle's
safety kit by including extra blankets, sand to help gain traction
in the event you become stuck on ice or snow, jumper cables, an ice
scraper and lock de-icer.
- Remember that 4-wheel drive does not mean 4-wheel
stop. A 4-wheel drive vehicle will not stop any better in icy conditions.
- Be sure of your route. Don't go exploring in the
back-country without some local knowledge, especially during a storm
or when one is bearing down anywhere near your location. The weather
can change quickly and violently in the Rocky Mountains and not necessarily
only in the heart of winter.
- Be sure you have good tires. The Colorado State Patrol
recommends at least 1/8 of an inch tread depth. All season radials
on a front-wheel-drive passenger vehicle are adequate for most situations.
Snow tires on most rear wheel drive vehicles are usually adequate.
Chain restrictions in Colorado are most often put into effect for commercial
vehicles (semi-trailer trucks) and do not usually affect passenger
vehicles.
- In poor visibility or even whiteout conditions, don't
drive faster than you can see ahead. High speeds in poor or no visibility
can lead to large chain reaction accidents. Remember you can't see
around mountain curves and corners either.
- All these tips will help in keeping you safe and
comfortable on your trip to Durango, Colorado. Be responsible
when driving in Colorado's rugged mountains. Enjoy your Durango
Vacation!
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