Denver, Colorado, is great for car enthusiasts to base themselves on an epic road trip through the Rocky Mountains. With beautiful scenery, winding roads, and plenty of attractions along the way, there’s no shortage of adventures. This blog post explores some of the best road trips from Denver for car enthusiasts.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts in the Denver area. This 28-mile road climbs to the top of Mount Evans, one of the tallest peaks in Colorado, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The narrow, winding road, with steep drop-offs on either side, makes for an exciting and challenging drive. As you climb higher and higher, the scenery changes dramatically, from dense forests to alpine tundra. Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop quickly at high altitudes.
If you intend to go on a road trip on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, it’s essential to remember that this road can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced drivers. A road with steep drop-offs on either side can increase the risk of vehicular accidents. If you encounter a road mishap on this or any other street in Denver, seek the help of auto accident attorneys in Denver who can help you get through the process. They can help you learn what your legal rights are as well as your viable options.
From there, you can work together to get the compensation you deserve. Always drive safely and cautiously, especially on challenging roads like Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
Trail Ridge Road
Another iconic drive in the Rocky Mountains is Trail Ridge Road. This 48-mile road stretches through Rocky Mountain National Park and climbs to over 12,000 feet. The road has stunning views of the mountains and valleys below.
Along the way, you’ll encounter wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep and plenty of hiking trails and scenic overlooks. If you’re looking for a true adventure, consider taking the road at night, when the stars come out, and the wildlife is most active.
Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a legendary stretch of road that winds through the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado. The road has hairpin turns and sheer drop-offs, making it challenging, even for the most experienced drivers.
But the views are worth it – the route passes through stunning mountain scenery, some of the best in the country, with jagged peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. Take your time, enjoy the journey – there are plenty of pullouts and scenic overlooks along the way.
Pikes Peak Highway
Pikes Peak is a popular mountain in Colorado, and the Pikes Peak Highway is a great way to experience it. This 19-mile road climbs to the summit of Pikes Peak, providing stunning views of your surroundings. The road is narrow, so be sure to stay alert.
At the top, you’ll find a visitor center, gift shop, and a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider hiking from the parking lot to the summit.
Independence Pass
Independence Pass is a 32-mile stretch of road that connects Aspen and Twin Lakes, Colorado.
The road climbs to over 12,000 feet. At the top, you’ll find a scenic overlook and plenty of hiking trails to explore. Independence Pass is a popular destination for car enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The road offers a challenging but rewarding drive with hairpin turns, steep grades, and stunning mountain scenery.
At the top of the pass, you’ll find a scenic overlook – offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From here, you can also access several hiking trails that take you through some of Colorado’s most beautiful alpine landscapes.
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway is a 23-mile road that winds through the mountains between Georgetown and Grant, Colorado. The road climbs to an elevation of more than 11,600 feet and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Be sure to stop at the historic ghost town of Georgetown and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway Visitor Center for a truly memorable experience.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
While not technically a road trip, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts in the Denver area.
The park features a stunning canyon in western Colorado with steep, jagged cliffs that drop over 2,000 feet to the Gunnison River below. The road through the park, the South Rim Drive, is a 7-mile stretch of road that follows the canyon’s edge and provides breathtaking scenic views.
Plenty of pullouts and scenic overlooks along the way for you to enjoy the stunning views. If you’re looking for a more challenging drive, consider taking the North Rim Drive, which is even more narrow and winding than the South Rim Drive. The North Rim Drive is only open seasonally, so check before planning your visit.
In addition to the scenic drives, there are plenty of attractions and activities for car enthusiasts to enjoy along the way. The town of Estes Park, located near the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, is a popular destination for car shows and rallies throughout the year. Silverton, situated near the Million Dollar Highway, has several classic car museums and shops.
If you want a more hands-on experience, consider renting a high-performance sports car or classic car for your road trip. Several rental companies in the Denver area offer a wide range of vehicles, from classic Mustangs to modern Lamborghinis. Imagine cruising down the winding roads of the Rocky Mountains in a sleek sports car with the wind in your hair and the stunning scenery all around you.
No matter what type of car you drive or your driving preferences, there’s a road trip in the Rocky Mountains that’s perfect for you. From the winding roads of the Million Dollar Highway to the challenging climbs of Mount Evans, there’s no shortage of adventures. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
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About the author: Trent (IMDB | Youtube) has spent 10+ years working on an assortment of film and television projects. He writes about his experiences to help (and amuse) others. If he’s not working, he’s either traveling, reading or writing about travel/film, or planning travel/film projects.
