How the I-70 Mountain Express Lanes work
CDOT’s I-70 Mountain Express Lanes run between the Veterans Memorial Tunnels near Idaho Springs and Empire. They are tolled lanes open during designated peak travel periods, mostly weekends and holidays; when closed, they serve as emergency shoulders. Overhead signs show whether a lane is open and its current toll. Regular travel lanes remain available.
The Express Lanes can offer another option during congestion, but they do not guarantee a particular arrival time or a traffic-free trip. Check current I-70 road conditions and allow for mountain weather and traffic.
Questions to check before using an Express Lane
- Will the toll change my quoted ride price? Ask your transportation provider how tolls are handled in your booking terms; this article does not establish a company-wide price policy.
- Will it shorten the trip? Travel time depends on traffic, weather, route and whether the lane is open. No fixed Denver-to-resort time is guaranteed.
- How is the toll collected? CDOT says drivers can be billed through an ExpressToll account or license-plate tolling. Check the current lane rules before using it.
This article originally discussed I-70 work expected through 2021. For present construction, closures and lane operations, use CDOT’s current I-70 travel page before departure.
For a current transportation quote, review the booking details and ask how tolls, stops and route changes are handled before travel.
