5 Must-See Colorado Road Trips for Adventurous Travelers
Colorado offers unparalleled scenery, natural wonders, and adventure opportunities for curious and adventurous travelers. With numerous roads and highways traversing through its majestic mountains, meadows, and canyons, Colorado is perfect for road-trip enthusiasts. In this blog post, we’ll explore five must-see Colorado road trips for adventurous travelers.
1. Trail Ridge Road
At an elevation of 12,183 feet, Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offering stunning views of Rocky Mountain National Park. Stretching over 48 miles, the road is filled with sharp curves, steep cliffs, and panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and wildlife. The journey takes about two hours, but with several pullouts and scenic overlooks along the way, it’s best to give yourself an entire day to complete the trip.
2. Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile-long stretch of US Route 550 that runs along the San Juan Mountains between Silverton and Ouray. The highway is known for its challenging mountain passes, narrow lanes, and sheer drop-offs, but it also offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and forests. Along the way, travelers can visit the historic mining town of Silverton and soak in the natural hot springs of Ouray.
3. Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway
The Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway follows the Colorado River from its source in Rocky Mountain National Park to the town of Grand Lake, passing through picturesque towns, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. The 80-mile-long road takes you through the heart of the Colorado River headwaters, where you can fish, kayak, or raft on the river, hike through the surrounding wilderness, or visit the nearby hot springs.
4. San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a 236-mile loop that runs through the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, passing through four historic towns(Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and Durango). The road offers spectacular views of towering peaks, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls, and takes you through historic mining towns, national parks, and scenic attractions. The trip takes about two days to complete, but the experience is unforgettable.
5. Pikes Peak Highway
The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile-long scenic drive from Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in Colorado. The road is winding and steep, with hairpin turns and narrow lanes, but the views from the top, at an elevation of 14,115 feet, are incredible. From the summit, you can see the entire Front Range, including Colorado Springs, Denver, and the Great Plains.
In conclusion, road-tripping in Colorado is a unique experience that offers unmatched scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural attractions. Whether you prefer breathtaking mountain vistas, charming small towns, or adrenaline-fueled outdoor activities, Colorado has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the natural wonders of the Centennial State.
