Heavy traffic is expected in Colorado as a record number of travelers hit the road for the Fourth of July holiday. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a total of 72.2 million people will travel nationwide, with 61.6 million traveling by car, up 2.2% from last year.
Denver ranks seventh among top U.S. destinations for travelers over the Fourth of July, and data shows Denver International Airport is a top destination for car rentals. Residents and visitors can expect traffic congestion at usual hotspots, including the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnels and I-70 Exit 205 to Silverthorne.
AAA’s regional director of public affairs, Skyler McKinley, advises drivers to exercise patience on the roadways, reminding them that they are part of the traffic. The holiday itself is expected to be relatively quiet, but Sunday and Monday will see increased traffic as people leave after the celebration.
While gas prices are down in Colorado, travelers headed to the mountains can expect higher prices along the I-70 corridor, with some areas seeing prices as high as $4.65 per gallon. McKinley recommends checking car maintenance before hitting the road to avoid preventable issues.
The influx of out-of-state visitors brings economic benefits to Colorado, but residents are advised to pack their patience for a potentially congested holiday weekend.
Source: https://www.summitdaily.com/news/colorado-traffic-mountains-fourth-of-july-2025