Getting to and from Craig in winter means watching US 40

Craig is a hub for a big, rural part of the state, and a lot of life — medical trips, supplies, travel — runs along US 40. Heading east, that highway is also the main way toward Steamboat Springs and, past it, the mountains and the Front Range.

In winter, that drive deserves respect. Beyond the Yampa valley, US 40 climbs into high country where snow, wind, and blowing drifts can change conditions fast and can close the road for a time during storms. CDOT can activate Colorado’s traction law on state highways when conditions call for it, and mountain stretches like Rabbit Ears Pass see winter conditions often. When the traction law is active, passenger vehicles must meet CDOT’s current requirements for drive type, tire type, and tread depth — or carry chains or an approved traction device. In the most severe conditions, CDOT can step up to a chain law. The exact, current rules are spelled out on CDOT’s winter driving pages, and that is the version to trust.

This is not a reason to avoid the area; it is a reason to plan. People who live here build in extra time in winter, keep their tires ready, and carry warm layers, water, and a charged phone for the open stretches where help is far away and cell service can drop.

Before a winter drive on US 40, check current conditions and any traction or chain requirements with CDOT and the COtrip road-conditions service.