Alpine Loop Is A Back Road That Is Perfect For A Scenic Drive In Colorado

More snow may be in the upcoming forecast, but spring still continues to make welcomed appearances around the Centennial State, meaning you can soon get out and take any Colorado drive you want! Do you want to know our favorite seasonal drive? It is none other than the jaw-dropping Alpine Loop:

Located in southwest Colorado, the stunning Alpine Loop Scenic and Historic Byway (or Alpine Loop National Back Country Byway) is a nearly 70-mile-long drive that is arguably one of the most beautiful in the state.

First used by miners in the 1800s, the Alpine Loop is one of Colorado's most historical roads and even passes by some of the deserted mines and towns once inhabited by these early residents.

Best used in the warmer months (May through October), the Alpine Loop passes through not only breathtaking scenery but also charming mountain towns that you will want to stop in and visit.

While the average time to travel the Loop is seven hours (it may be 70-some miles, but dirt roads and mountain terrain make for much slower speeds!), we suggest making a weekend out of it, so you can stop in and visit the iconic towns of Ouray (pictured), Silverton, and Lake City!

In addition to views like this, the Alpine Loop also boasts several hiking and biking trails that are perfect for late-spring or early summer.

Please note: Part of the road is - for safety reasons - closed in the winter, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required, thanks to its stretches of uneven dirt road and lots of rocks.

For more information on current road conditions, trails, and more, please visit the Colorado Department of Transportation's website.

Which is your favorite backcountry road? Let us know in the comments! If you have a favorite attraction that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado, submit it here. For even more of our favorite Colorado backroads, you will want to Take These 10 Country Roads In Colorado For An Unforgettable Scenic Drive.

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Ouray, CO, USA

Alpine Loop Is A Back Road You Didn't Know Existed But Is Perfect For A Scenic Drive In Colorado

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