WYDOT closes Teton Pass eastbound to trailer traffic starting Oct. 15

An extended closure of the vehicle arrestor system on WYO 22 Teton Pass has resulted in the Wyoming Department of Transportation enforcing an earlier seasonal trailer traffic closure one month early this year. The early closure will only affect eastbound traffic on Teton Pass. Westbound traffic will be allowed to travel the pass, barring any weather related closure.

“Our concerns lie mostly with the eastbound traffic on the east side of the pass, given the steep grade, topography and accident history,” WYDOT District Engineer Keith Compton said.

The closure of the arrestor, in combination with winter storms already moving into the Teton Valley, has prompted WYDOT to institute an early ban on eastbound trailer traffic over the pass beginning on Oct. 15, 2019. The annual full closure for both directions will begin on November 15 and will continue through the season until April 1. Occasionally, adverse winter conditions have forced earlier closures.

The early closure is in response to the recent closure of the vehicle arrestor system, recent brake-related crashes and a lack of compliance to posted signs. The Wyoming Highway Patrol will be strictly enforcing the current trailer and weight restrictions and continue to make Teton Pass a priority for routine patrols.

A runaway truck ramp approximately one mile up from the current vehicle arrestor location remains open for use.

Any vehicles with a hitched trailer illegally accessing Teton Pass will be found in violation of running a road closure and subject to fines. The Wyoming Department of Transportation will also be installing a mobile variable message board with the closure messaging for added awareness. For alternative routes, contact any Department of Transportation Port of Entry or Permit Station.

Drivers can sign up for 511 Notify alerts at https://www.wyoroad.info/511/511NotifyAnnouncement.html.

WYDOT would like to remind drivers to slow down in winter conditions, and obey all roadside signs and closures. For more information on road closures and weather conditions, please visit http://www.wyoroad.info.