By Dana Davis
Reporter, Carbon County Comet
The scenic Snowy Range Scenic Byway, also known as WYO 130, officially closed for the winter season on November 26, 2023, according to an announcement made by the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). The closure, an annual occurrence, is due to drifting and blowing snow, making road conditions unsafe and plowing impractical.
WYO 130 is a breathtaking 12-mile stretch of highway that winds through the Snowy Range Mountains, reaching elevations of over 10,800 feet. This stunning route, cherished by locals and tourists alike for its stunning vistas, provides access to the Green Rock trailhead in the east and extends just above Ryan Park in the west. The closure encompasses mile markers 36 to 48, effectively closing down this picturesque section for the winter months to automobiles.
In recent years, WYO 130 has typically closed in early November, making this year’s closure on November 26 slightly later than usual. For reference, last year’s closure occurred on November 10, while in previous years, it closed on November 11 in 2021, November 14 in 2020, October 29 in 2019, November 3 in 2018, and November 20 in 2017.
The decision to close this section of the highway is not taken lightly. The combination of extreme elevation and heavy snowfall in the region makes winter travel on WYO 130 dangerous and poses significant challenges for maintenance crews. WYDOT crews will now focus on keeping the lower-elevation roads safe and clear for travelers until they can return to WYO 130 in the spring to tackle the accumulated snow and reopen this scenic byway.
WYO 130 is one of two high-elevation highways in District 1 that close for the winter annually, with the safety of travelers being a top priority for the Wyoming Department of Transportation. While the closure may disappoint those who love the scenic beauty of the Snowy Range during the winter months, it is a necessary measure to ensure the safety of all road users. Travelers are advised to plan their routes accordingly and stay informed about road conditions during the winter season.
