Road trips are a great way to explore the beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Colorado, with its picturesque landscapes, offers some of the best road trip routes in the United States. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most popular and scenic road trips from Colorado that you can embark on.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park Loop
The Rocky Mountain National Park Loop is one of the best road trips in Colorado that offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. The loop is approximately 48 miles long and takes you through majestic mountains, glacial lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers.
Some of the notable stops along the way include the Alpine Visitor Center, Trail Ridge Road, and Bear Lake. Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots as there are plenty of trails to explore in this national park.
2. San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a 236-mile-long route that takes you through some of Colorado’s most spectacular mountain scenery. This road trip starts and ends in Durango and takes you through several historic mining towns such as Silverton and Ouray.
Some of the notable stops along this route include Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride Ski Resort, and Million Dollar Highway. The Million Dollar Highway is a must-see attraction that offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.
3. Grand Mesa Scenic Byway
The Grand Mesa Scenic Byway is a 63-mile-long route that takes you through Grand Mesa, which is one of the largest flat-top mountains in the world. This road trip starts in Cedaredge and ends in Grand Junction.
Some notable stops along this route include Powderhorn Ski Resort, Lands End Observatory, and Grand Mesa Visitor Center. Don’t forget to pack your fishing gear as there are plenty of lakes and streams in this area that offer excellent trout fishing.
4. Pikes Peak Highway
The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile-long route that takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, which is one of the most famous peaks in Colorado. The road trip starts in Colorado Springs and takes you through several switchbacks, valleys, and forests.
Some notable stops along this route include Glen Eyrie Castle, Garden of the Gods, and Manitou Springs. Don’t forget to bring your camera as there are plenty of scenic viewpoints along this route.
Conclusion
Colorado offers some of the most scenic and enjoyable road trips in the United States. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountain views or historic mining towns, there’s something for everyone in Colorado. So pack your bags, grab a map, and hit the road to embark on an unforgettable adventure.