KY➜CO

The Route: Kentucky to Colorado Trucking Guide

This route guide provides a recommended path for commercial truck drivers traveling from Kentucky to Colorado. The primary interstate highways used are:

• I-64 West: Begin in Kentucky. I-64 will take you westward through Kentucky and into Missouri.

• I-70 West: From Missouri, I-70 will be your primary route through Kansas and into Colorado. I-70 provides a fairly direct path across the plains and into the Rocky Mountains. Be aware that this route can have significant elevation changes as you enter Colorado.

Alternative Considerations:

While I-70 is most direct, drivers coming from Southern Kentucky might consider I-64 West to I-57 North to I-64 West to I-70 West, or I-65 North to I-70 West. Routing is always dependent on departure point within KY.

Compliance & Permits

Driving this route necessitates adherence to all federal and state trucking regulations. Be sure to have all required documentation readily available. Some specifics to note are:

• IFTA: Ensure your International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) credentials are up-to-date and displayed correctly. You will be traveling through multiple IFTA jurisdictions (KY, MO, KS, CO).

• IRP: Your International Registration Plan (IRP) credentials must also be current and properly displayed.

• Weigh Stations & Ports of Entry: Expect to encounter weigh stations along I-70 in Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado. Specific locations include, but are not limited to:

  • Missouri: Numerous locations, be prepared to scale.
  • Kansas: Topeka Scale (East and West Bound), Colby Weigh Station (Westbound)
  • Colorado: Burlington Weigh Station (East and West Bound), Dumont Weigh Station (East and West Bound, though often closed).

  Always adhere to posted signage and scale requirements. Failure to comply can result in fines and delays.

• KYU (Kentucky Weight Distance Tax): While you are leaving Kentucky, ensure all KYU requirements are met. Keep appropriate records.

• Colorado Permits: Depending on the dimensions and weight of your load, you may require special permits from the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Check CDOT regulations before entering the state with oversized or overweight loads.

Risks & Hazards

Seasonal weather significantly impacts this route, especially as you enter Colorado:

• Winter (October - April): Expect snow and ice in the Rocky Mountains along I-70. Chain laws are frequently in effect. Monitor weather forecasts closely and carry chains suitable for your vehicle. Be prepared for delays and potential road closures. High winds are also common, especially in Kansas.

• Summer (June - August): High temperatures are common across Kansas, Missouri, and Eastern Colorado. Ensure your vehicle's cooling system is functioning correctly. Tire blowouts are more frequent in hot weather. Additionally, flash flooding can occur in the mountain areas of Colorado during afternoon thunderstorms.

• Year-Round: Be aware of wildlife crossings, particularly at dawn and dusk. Maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to stop suddenly. I-70 in Colorado also has steep grades and curves; use lower gears appropriately, especially when descending.