The Best Scenic Highways and Byways in Colorado
From the first explorations of the area by the Europeans and the Spanish, to fur traders, scientists, gold rushers, and even artists; the Rocky Mountains have contributed hugely to American culture as a whole. In addition to the wonderful historical experiences that can be had in Rockies, the natural surroundings tend to be the biggest drawing factor for modern day tourists and travelers. There is just nothing like climbing over 14,000 feet, through different ecosystems, and a variety of awe inspiring landscapes to heights that were once just dreams, only to discover what “America the Beautiful” is really all about!
Today’s modern conveniences have made exploring the Rocky Mountain easier than ever. From guided Jeep tours and off-roading, to family road trips and popular motorcycle routes, the Rocky Mountains offer fun and adventure around every turn! Here are my top five favorite Rocky Mountain road trips.
Image via: https://www.denver.org/things-to-do/day-trips-around-colorado/mount-evans/1. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is known for being the highest paved roadway in North America, as it is said to climb up over 14,130 feet! You can get to this somewhat gutsy road at the junction of I-70 and Highway 103 near Idaho Springs, following Highway 5 directly through the Mount Evans Wilderness Area all the way to the summit. This roadway was originally mapped out according to the area’s scenic vistas and was intended for tourism purposes. Open only during the summer months and with only two lanes, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway makes for a challenging drive with steep drop-offs, no guard rails, and frequent run-ins with wildlife. Of course once you have reached the top and taken a moment to look at where exactly on earth you are, the nervous drive transforms into a glorious feat!
2. To me, Trail Ridge Road is one of the loveliest drives in all of America! This road can be picked up at the mouth of Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, and will take you 48 miles to Lake Granby, making it the highest continually paved road in the US. Open mostly during the summer, and with limited access during the fall and the spring, Trail Ridge Road sees hundreds of tourists, vacationers and travelers every day during weekends. This road climbs to over 12,000 feet, where summer traffic jams, due to elk and bighorn sheep, are common occurrences. Along the way you will see breathtaking sights, tons of wildlife and the mighty Colorado River!
Image via: https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/outdoor/americas-most-thrilling-roads-million-dollar-highway-colorado-201306273. The Million Dollar Highway is better known as Red Mountain Pass because of the amazing iron oxide mountains that can be viewed along the way. Accessible via Highway 550, this scenic roadway is located in southwestern Colorado and offers one of a kind views of the San Juan Mountains. A popular highway for cross country motorcyclists, this road is open year round, however, it is wisest to only travel it outside of avalanche season. Guaranteed to give you white knuckles and to make you a bit queasy, the drive from Ouray to Silverton will test your limits, while offering amazing views all around you.
4. Independence Pass was formed by glacial erosion and was first discovered in 1806! This road takes you through the heart of the Rockies in central Colorado and reaches heights of over 12,000 feet. Crossing over the Continental Divide through the Sawatch Range, travelers can take in the alpine tundra environment and excellent views of Elbert Mountain. Open only during the summer, when this road closes, so does direct eastward access to Aspen, Colorado. Immensely popular with rock climbers, late spring backcountry skiers, and professional cyclers, Independence Pass is Colorado’s athletic paradise.
5. Silver Thread Scenic Byway is a wonderfully weaving link between the historic towns of Creede, Lake City, and South Fork, up and over the Continental Divide. Covering 75 miles, this year round highway travels both through the Rio Grande and Gunnison National Forests and is part of the National Forest Service and Colorado Scenic/Historic Byway registry. Its namesake sheds a bit of light into the rich history this area once had due to silver mining. Sitting back in the comfort of your car, you can enjoy Colorado’s lush beauty and explore part of American history all at the same time!