Located approximately 11,158 above sea level the Eisenhower Johnson Tunnels are the highest point along the U.S Interstate Highway System.
The Eisenhower Tunnel, also known as the Eisenhower-Edwin C. Johnson Memorial Tunnel, is a major transportation route located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is the highest vehicular tunnel in the world, reaching an elevation of 11,158 feet (3,401 meters) above sea level. The tunnel is part of the I-70 highway, which connects the Denver metropolitan area to the mountain communities of Summit County and beyond.
The tunnel was first proposed in the 1940s as a way to improve transportation and access to the mountains, and construction began in 1968. The tunnel was named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who had pushed for the construction of the Interstate Highway System. The tunnel was completed in 1973 and officially opened to the public on March 31, 1973.
The Eisenhower Tunnel is a marvel of modern engineering, as it was built through solid granite using the “drill-and-blast” method. The tunnel is 1.7 miles (2.7 km) long and consists of two lanes in each direction. The tunnel also features a ventilation system that pumps fresh air into the tunnel and removes exhaust, ensuring that the air inside the tunnel is safe for travelers.
The tunnel is a crucial transportation link for the mountain communities, providing access to the ski resorts, hiking and biking trails, and other recreational opportunities in the area. It also serves as an important route for commercial and emergency vehicles. During the winter months, the tunnel experiences a high volume of traffic, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s recommended to plan ahead and check the traffic conditions before traveling.
In addition to its significance as a transportation route, the Eisenhower Tunnel is also known for its scenic beauty. The views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are truly breathtaking, making it a popular spot for tourists and photographers.
Overall, the Eisenhower Tunnel is an engineering marvel and an important transportation route that provides access to the beautiful mountain communities of Colorado. It’s a must-see destination for those visiting the state and a reminder of the incredible work that can be accomplished with human effort and technology.
Traveling westbound from the Eisenhower tunnel you will find some seriously steep grades. 7 miles straight downhill at a 7% grade. Be prepared to encounter stop and go traffic and trucks going extremely slow in the right lane. You can smell burning brakes from a couple of miles away. Watch out for trucks and other vehicles that may lose their brakes.