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Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel: A Rocky Mountain Passage

Drive through the Continental Divide! Experience an engineering marvel at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70, just west of Denver.

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The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel, located 60 miles west of Denver, is a dual-bore, four-lane vehicular tunnel that carries Interstate 70 under the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. It's one of the highest vehicular tunnels in the world and a vital link for commerce and tourism in Colorado.

A brief summary to Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check road conditions and weather forecasts before traveling, especially during winter, as the tunnel may close due to adverse weather.
  • Be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak ski season (January-March) and summer tourism (July-August).
  • Note the height restrictions, particularly if driving a large vehicle. The clearance is approximately 13' 11".
  • Consider using US Highway 6 over Loveland Pass as an alternate route if the tunnel is closed, but be aware of potentially challenging driving conditions.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel is located on Interstate 70, approximately 60 miles west of Denver. From Denver, take I-70 West. The tunnel is well-marked and accessible directly from the highway. There are no tolls for using the tunnel itself, but be aware of the I-70 Mountain Express Lane, a tolled express lane on I-70 that you may encounter on your approach. Parking is not available at the tunnel itself. If you need to stop, do so at designated rest areas or in nearby towns like Georgetown or Silverthorne. There are free parking options available at Keystone Resort, a short drive from the tunnel. Free day parking is available at the River Run Gondola and North Shuttle lots. Overnight parking at the D & E lots costs $25.

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Discover more about Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels

The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel (EJMT) is more than just a passage through the mountains; it's an engineering marvel and a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming geographical barriers. Located approximately 60 miles (97 km) west of Denver, the tunnel is comprised of two bores, each carrying two lanes of traffic on Interstate 70 beneath the Continental Divide. The westbound bore, named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, opened in 1973, while the eastbound bore, dedicated to Colorado Governor and U.S. Senator Edwin C. Johnson, was completed in 1979. With a maximum elevation of 11,158 feet (3,401 m) above sea level, it stands as one of the highest vehicular tunnels globally and the highest point on the Interstate Highway System. The construction of the EJMT was a challenging feat, battling harsh climate conditions, unexpected geological faults, and ventilation issues. The tunnels were excavated using the drill-and-blast method through solid granite. Today, a sophisticated ventilation system ensures air quality, and a dedicated team monitors traffic flow to maintain safety. The tunnel's importance is underscored by the millions of vehicles that pass through it annually, facilitating travel for tourists, skiers, and commercial transportation. While primarily a transportation tunnel, the EJMT also serves as a water tunnel, diverting water from the western side of the Continental Divide to the eastern side. Water from the Straight Creek watershed, along with seepage, is discharged into Clear Creek for delivery to the Coors Brewing Company.

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