CDOT Warns of Heavy Traffic This Weekend

Travelers advised to plan ahead as mountain events and post-playoff travel expected to cause delays.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:31pm

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The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is warning travelers to expect heavy traffic this weekend, especially around the mountains and on Sunday. While snow levels are lower than last year, events like the Breckenridge snow sculptures are still expected to draw visitors, leading to slowdowns on the roads. CDOT is advising drivers to plan for delays, especially on Friday, early Saturday around Floyd Hill, and Sunday afternoon as people return home.

Why it matters

This is a busy travel weekend in Colorado, with the period between the playoffs and the Super Bowl historically seeing high traffic volumes. While lower snowfall this year may reduce some of the congestion compared to 2025, CDOT is still anticipating significant delays that could impact both locals and visitors trying to enjoy the mountains.

The details

According to CDOT, the weekend between the playoffs and the Super Bowl is always a busy time for travel in Colorado, regardless of weather conditions. While there is less snow in the mountains this year compared to 2025, events like the Breckenridge snow sculptures are still expected to draw visitors. CDOT is warning drivers to expect slowdowns on Friday, early Saturday around Floyd Hill, and Sunday afternoon as people return home from their mountain trips.

  • This weekend (January 31 - February 2, 2026)
  • Friday and early Saturday, especially around Floyd Hill
  • Sunday afternoon as people return home

The players

Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)

The state transportation agency responsible for managing Colorado's road network and providing travel advisories.

Breckenridge Snow Sculptures

An annual winter event in the mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado that draws visitors to see intricate snow sculptures.

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What’s next

CDOT is advising travelers to plan ahead and allow extra time for their mountain trips this weekend to account for the expected heavy traffic delays.

The takeaway

This busy travel weekend highlights the ongoing challenges Colorado faces in managing traffic flow, especially to popular mountain destinations. While lower snowfall may provide some relief, events and post-playoff travel will still lead to significant congestion that drivers should be prepared for.