For those of you who do not know me, I grew up in Northern Colorado and made many trips with my family to both Estes Park and Grand Lake. One of the memories that sticks out the most about these trips is the stunning (albeit steep) windy road that lead one from the Fort Collins area to the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The road that I am referring to is (of course) Trail Ridge, and if you have yet to take it, here is what you're missing:
No matter the time of year, you are guaranteed to find the most beautiful colors and scenes along this Continental Divide highway, which is both the highest continuous road and byway in the country. Whether you are taking the road as a way to get from point A to point B, or if you are just out for a Sunday afternoon drive, be sure to plan to spend at least 2 hours along the 48-mile stretch---and keep your eyes peeled for ample wildlife sightings.
If you are looking for a long drive that is equal parts scenic and unforgettable, there is no place quite like Colorado! The most dangerous drives in CO are incredibly scenic, but they might just test your wits. Before you hit the road, there is something that you should know about a few of the scariest roads in Colorado:
The Million Dollar Highway - a ritzy, 25-mile stretch between Silverton and Ouray - is about as beautiful as it gets; however, drivers must pay close attention when navigating this dangerous road. Nicknamed by locals (who wouldn't dare drive it in the winter, no matter the amount they were offered), this part of US 550 features narrow lanes, hairpin turns, and steep drop-offs with no guardrails, plus switchbacks and steep grades. It is definitely one of the most dangerous roads in CO.
If you guessed that the highest paved road in Colorado comes with its own set of dangers, you would be correct! Spanning 28 miles, the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is one of the highest roads in Colorado is a sight to behold, but it should also be driven carefully, thanks to its high altitude, steep drop-offs, and lack of guardrails. (Please note: Due to its high elevation, the drive up Mount Blue Sky is only open Memorial Day through Labor Day.)
Connecting Aspen to Leadville, Independence Pass is the best place to see Only in Colorado scenery, as it offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Like the other drives, Independence Pass is narrow and winding, with the added danger of rock slides and avalanches (especially in the spring when snow and ice melt). Independence Pass earns its spot on the list of the most dangerous highways in CO.
There is no better way to see and experience Rocky Mountain National Park than by driving along Trail Ridge Road - especially if you do so carefully! Reaching an elevation of 12,183 feet and running 48 miles, Trail Ridge is the highest continuously paved road in the United States, making it difficult for those with altitude sickness or trouble breathing. As you may have guessed, it, too, has steep drop-offs and no guardrails.
Yes, it's gorgeous, and yes, it is narrow and winding, but Guanella Pass is the most stunning fall drive we have ever taken! (If you want to really enjoy the changing leaves, pull off the road so you can take in all the beauty safely!) You could say it's one of the scariest roads in Colorado, but it is also one of the most scenic.
One of the most famous mountains in America just so happens to boast of the most terrifying drives... go figure! Running 19 miles, the Pikes Peak Highway is only open from late spring to early fall, weather permitting, due to its high altitude and fast-changing weather conditions.
Last but certainly not least is Loveland Pass: a drive as terrifying as the others, mainly since it stays open year-round. When you drive the Pass, be prepared for twists and turns, steep drop-offs, and no guardrails (you know, the usual!). It’s one of the most dangerous highways in CO.
Now that you have seen the most dangerous drives in CO, check out these 10 country roads in Colorado for a beautiful scenic drive. And if you get hungry, make sure to stock up on these road trip snacks.
Colorado is full of epic views - our state is SO beautiful and we are SO lucky to live here! In so many parts of Colorado, no matter where you look, you'll see vast beauty. That's a big part of why so many of us Coloradans love living here! However, with that said, there are some spots in our great state where the views are especially spectacular, and those places are worth driving to to take it all in. On this Iconic Colorado Views Road Trip, you'll visit seven of our state's most exceptional overlooks and viewpoints. Best of all, to experience these epic views - there's no hiking required. These viewpoints are easily accessible to most, whether you are old or young or are just plain lazy like me. Read on to check out this road trip and get ready to take it on, and when you do go, be sure to bring your camera!
This road trip is lengthy at 11 hours in total, but it's worth it. Not only will you stop at seven incredible viewpoints, but the views en route to each one are pretty special, too. You can easily break this road trip into two days or more as needed.
The first stop on this road trip is Lookout Mountain. This nature preserve is in Golden and is not far from Denver. The top of Lookout Mountain is 7377', making it one of the tallest peaks in the foothills. You can drive to the top and visit the fantastic nature center here and enjoy views of Golden and of other Front Range cities and suburbs beyond it.
Your next two stops on this road trip are in Rocky Mountain National Park, a place known for its incredible and breathtaking views. You'll need to make a reservation ahead of time for park entry during the busy months of the year, or you'll need to arrive either before the timed entry period begins or after it ends (see park website for details). Rainbow Curve is a popular overlook at 10,829'. It's right at the treeline just between alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems. You'll love the views from this pull-off and you're sure to see wildlife here as well - guaranteed.
When you continue along Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park past Rainbow Curve, you'll eventually read Forest Canyon Overlook. This one is even higher at 11,716'! You'll be above many of the surrounding mountains and you can see for miles and miles. This spot is, without a doubt, one of the best views in ALL of Colorado.
You'll go down and then back up again on your way to the summit of Mount Blue Sky! This mountain is huge at 14,265' and when you reach the parking lot at the top, you'll be at the highest point that you can drive to in North America. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is beautiful all the way there, and this peak can be seen from most places around Denver, just to give you an idea of how big it is. You'll love the views from up there, and you may even get to meet a mountain goat on your journey.
After you come down from Mount Blue Sky, head west to the Lake Dillon area and ascend to Sapphire Point Overlook for great views of one of Colorado's largest bodies of water, even if it is manmade. The views from this overlook are beautiful and it's a great place for a picnic, too.
From Dillon, you'll head further west to Buena Vista for a stop at the Collegiate Peaks Overlook. This time, you'll be looking up instead of down and you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Collegiate Peaks, with Mount Princeton (14.204') right in front of you. Relax at the shaded picnic tables here for a bit if you have time.
Finally, you'll head south to drive up one of Colorado's most famous mountain peaks - Pikes Peak. You can drive to the top, take a shuttle, or ride the cog railway from Manitou Springs. The Summit Visitor Center offers bathrooms, food, beverages, and gifts, and on a really clear day, you can see five states (CO, AZ, NM, UT, and KS)!
This road trip is amazing and you're going to love the experience! Sure, it's a lot of driving, but as you pull off to take in each view, you'll know the effort was absolutely worth it. You'll have framable photos and incredible memories, and you'll go home enamored with Colorado's vast beauty more than ever before. Have a great trip!
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