Colorado is a state known for its diverse landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast plains and desert regions. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of this state is by embarking on a road trip. With its well-maintained highways and scenic byways, Colorado offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking mountain views, historic Wild West towns, or unique desert landscapes, Colorado has it all. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of Colorado’s most scenic routes, highlighting the must-see stops and activities along the way.
Key Takeaways
- Colorado offers scenic routes perfect for road trips by car
- Rocky Mountains provide breathtaking views and adventure
- Wild West history can be discovered in Mesa Verde and Durango
- Eastern Colorado offers a unique Great Plains adventure
- San Juan Skyway and Million Dollar Highway offer stunning alpine views
Rocky Mountain High: Road Tripping Through the Rockies
No road trip through Colorado would be complete without a drive through the majestic Rocky Mountains. One of the most iconic routes in this region is through Rocky Mountain National Park. The Trail Ridge Road, which spans 48 miles from Estes Park to Grand Lake, offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Along the way, be sure to stop at popular viewpoints such as Many Parks Curve and Medicine Bow Curve for panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.
In addition to the scenic drive, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hiking enthusiasts can explore numerous trails that lead to alpine lakes, waterfalls, and even tundra landscapes above treeline. Wildlife lovers will have the opportunity to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and maybe even a black bear or moose. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, there are picnic areas and visitor centers where you can learn about the park’s history and ecology.
Discovering Colorado’s Wild West: From Mesa Verde to Durango
For a taste of Colorado’s Wild West history and culture, a road trip from Mesa Verde National Park to the town of Durango is a must. Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area over 700 years ago. Take a guided tour to explore these ancient dwellings and learn about the fascinating history of the region.
After visiting Mesa Verde, continue your journey to Durango, a charming town with a rich Wild West heritage. Stroll along Main Avenue, lined with historic buildings that now house shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train that offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the surrounding area.
The Great Plains Adventure: Driving Across Eastern Colorado
While the mountains often steal the spotlight, Colorado’s plains have their own unique beauty. A road trip across eastern Colorado will take you through vast open spaces, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Start your journey in Denver and head east on Interstate 70 towards Limon. Along the way, you’ll pass through agricultural landscapes dotted with windmills and farmhouses.
Make a stop in Limon to visit the Limon Heritage Museum, which showcases the history of the town and its surrounding area. From there, continue east towards Burlington, where you can explore the Kit Carson County Carousel, one of only a few remaining antique carousels in the country. As you drive further east, you’ll reach the town of Lamar, known for its rich cowboy heritage. Visit the Big Timbers Museum to learn about Lamar’s Wild West past and see artifacts from that era.
Alpine Wonders: Navigating the San Juan Skyway
For those seeking jaw-dropping mountain views, the San Juan Skyway is a must-drive route. This 236-mile loop takes you through some of the most scenic areas in southwestern Colorado, including the towns of Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride. The drive offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls.
Start your journey in Durango and head north on Highway 550 towards Silverton. This stretch of road, known as the Million Dollar Highway, is famous for its hairpin turns and steep drop-offs. Take your time to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and keep an eye out for wildlife such as mountain goats and marmots.
In Silverton, a former mining town nestled in a high alpine valley, you can explore the historic downtown area and visit the San Juan County Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s mining history. From there, continue on to Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America” for its stunning mountain scenery. Take a dip in the natural hot springs or go for a hike in the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
The Million Dollar Highway: A Thrilling Drive Through the Rockies
If you’re looking for a thrilling and scenic drive through the Rockies, the Million Dollar Highway is not to be missed. This 25-mile stretch of road between Silverton and Ouray offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The road itself is an engineering marvel, with hairpin turns and steep drop-offs that will get your adrenaline pumping.
As you drive along the Million Dollar Highway, be sure to make stops at popular viewpoints such as Red Mountain Pass and Bear Creek Falls. These spots offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and are perfect for photo opportunities. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a detour to explore ghost towns such as Animas Forks or hike to alpine lakes such as Ice Lake Basin.
Red Rocks and Canyons: A Journey Through Colorado’s Desert Landscape
While Colorado is often associated with mountains, the state also boasts unique desert landscapes. A road trip through Colorado’s desert region will take you through stunning red rock formations, deep canyons, and ancient ruins. Start your journey in Grand Junction and head south on Highway 50 towards the town of Montrose.
Along the way, make a stop at Colorado National Monument, a hidden gem known for its towering red rock cliffs and panoramic views of the surrounding canyons. Take a scenic drive along Rim Rock Drive and stop at overlooks such as Independence Monument and Coke Ovens for breathtaking vistas.
From Montrose, continue south towards the town of Cortez, where you can visit Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. This area is home to thousands of archaeological sites, including ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs. Take a guided tour to explore these fascinating ruins and learn about the history of the Ancestral Puebloans who once inhabited the area.
The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip: A Loop Around the State
For those who want to experience all that Colorado has to offer, a comprehensive road trip that covers all of the state’s diverse regions is the ultimate adventure. Start your journey in Denver and head west towards Rocky Mountain National Park. From there, continue south towards Mesa Verde National Park and the town of Durango.
After exploring the Wild West region, head east across the plains towards Limon and Burlington. From there, continue south towards Colorado Springs, where you can visit Garden of the Gods, a stunning park known for its towering sandstone rock formations. Continue south towards Pueblo and then west towards Canon City, where you can take a scenic drive through the Royal Gorge.
From Canon City, head north towards Salida and then west towards Gunnison. From there, continue north on Highway 135 towards Crested Butte, a charming mountain town known for its wildflower displays in the summer. Continue north towards Aspen, where you can explore the town’s upscale shops and restaurants or take a hike in the surrounding mountains.
From Aspen, head west on Independence Pass towards Leadville, the highest incorporated city in North America. Continue west towards Glenwood Springs, where you can soak in the famous hot springs or take a thrilling ride on the Glenwood Canyon Zipline. From Glenwood Springs, head east on Interstate 70 towards Vail, a world-renowned ski resort town.
Continue east on Interstate 70 towards Denver, where you can end your road trip with a visit to the Denver Art Museum or a stroll along the trendy Larimer Square. This comprehensive road trip will take you through all of Colorado’s diverse regions, offering a taste of the state’s stunning landscapes and unique attractions.
Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Colorado’s Hidden Gems by Car
For adventurous travelers looking to get off the beaten path, Colorado offers plenty of hidden gems that can be explored by car. One such destination is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in southern Colorado. This unique park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, offering endless opportunities for hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing.
Another hidden gem is Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located in western Colorado. This dramatic canyon features sheer cliffs that drop over 2,000 feet to the Gunnison River below. Take a scenic drive along South Rim Road and stop at overlooks such as Painted Wall and Chasm View for breathtaking views of the canyon.
For those seeking a more remote and rugged experience, consider driving the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. This 63-mile route takes you through some of Colorado’s most remote and scenic areas, including ghost towns such as Animas Forks and Lake City. The drive offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and is perfect for off-roading enthusiasts.
Tips for Planning Your Colorado Road Trip: From Packing to Route Planning
Planning a successful road trip in Colorado requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventure:
1. Pack for all weather conditions: Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Be sure to pack layers, including warm clothing and rain gear, as well as sunscreen and a hat for protection against the sun.
2. Plan your route in advance: Colorado offers numerous scenic routes, so it’s important to plan your route in advance to ensure you don’t miss any must-see stops. Use a map or GPS system to navigate and consider downloading a road trip app that provides information on attractions, gas stations, and rest areas along your route.
3. Allow for extra time: Colorado’s scenic routes can be slow-going due to winding roads and heavy traffic during peak tourist seasons. Allow for extra time in your itinerary to account for unexpected delays and to fully enjoy the sights along the way.
4. Stay hydrated: Colorado’s high altitude can cause dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your road trip. It’s also a good idea to carry snacks and meals with you, as there may not be many dining options in remote areas.
5. Be prepared for altitude sickness: If you’re not accustomed to high altitudes, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Take it easy during your first few days in Colorado and drink plenty of water to help alleviate symptoms.
6. Practice safe driving: Colorado’s mountain roads can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. Take your time, obey speed limits, and be cautious when driving on steep grades or in inclement weather conditions.
Why Colorado is the Ultimate Road Trip Destination
Colorado’s diverse landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast plains and desert regions, make it the ultimate road trip destination. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking mountain views, historic Wild West towns, or unique desert landscapes, Colorado has it all. From driving through Rocky Mountain National Park to exploring the ancient ruins of Mesa Verde, there are endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a Colorado road trip adventure you’ll never forget.
