I-80 delays stretch for miles after icy morning in Parleys Canyon

Traffic on Parley's Canyon the morning of Monday, January 5, 2026. Photo: TownLift // Marina Knight

Icy roads after overnight rain caused crashes, traction restrictions, and miles-long backups on I-80 through Parleys Canyon and SR-224 in Park City

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Drivers faced major delays on Interstate 80 through Parleys Canyon Monday morning after overnight rain followed by falling temperatures left roads icy and slick, triggering multiple crashes.

The Utah Department of Transportation issued traction law restrictions for all vehicles traveling through Parleys Canyon as conditions deteriorated early in the morning. As of 10 a.m., the restriction had been lifted for eastbound traffic but remained in effect for westbound drivers.

Before 8 a.m., three crashes blocked multiple lanes on I-80 eastbound toward Park City, backing up traffic for more than 10 miles. One of the incidents involved a semi-truck that became stuck near Parleys Summit, blocking the right-most westbound lane.

UDOT warned that mountain snow and icy conditions could continue to impact several high-elevation routes, including I-80. In a social media update, the department reported I-215 into Parleys Canyon was wet with “light slush,” while Lambs Canyon to Parleys Summit was slushy and snow-covered. From Parleys Summit to Kimball Junction, roads were described as snow-covered.

Drivers on SR-224 also experienced significant delays due to multiple crashes in Park City. Traction devices are required for all vehicles traveling on SR-224 between Park City and Empire Pass.

Road conditions are expected to improve later in the day as snow tapers off, temperatures warm, and road crews continue clearing routes.