Colorado Road Trips Offer Stunning Views and Rich History

Standing at the edge of the I-25 rest stop, overlooking the Air Force Academy, the Rocky Mountains unfold like a canvas of rugged beauty — a stunning alpenglow at sunrise, a sight that never gets old. This spot, a thousand times familiar to one writer, is part of Colorado's vast network of roads that offer breathtaking views and unique stops.

The state's diverse landscapes, from the Sawatch Range to the Wet Mountains, are crisscrossed by highways and byways that offer breathtaking views and unique stops. The West Elk Scenic Byway, for instance, winds through rugged terrain, while Cañon City's Skyline Drive provides a heart-pounding, 2.5-mile stretch of paved road with sheer drop-offs on both sides.

Built by prisoners at the nearby state facility in 1905, Skyline Drive demands attention, with spots to take in the views of the surrounding landscape — a reminder that some of the best experiences come from the road less traveled.

In the late 1800s, Otto Mears pioneered easier travel in Colorado, crafting toll roads that connected commerce in the San Luis and Arkansas River valleys. His legacy includes the Otto Mears Toll Road, now a narrow four-wheel drive road west of Poncha Pass, which tops out around 11,230 feet. This 11-mile stretch, built in the 1870s, was the first of over 450 miles of roads Mears constructed, earning him the title "Pathfinder of the San Juans."

For locals, these drives are more than just a pretty view, they're a part of the state's identity, a reminder of its complex history, and a source of community pride. The iconic Bishop Castle in the Wet Mountains, the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, and even the quirky Solid Muldoon, a marker for a fake petrified giant, all contribute to the rich tapestry of Colorado's roadside attractions.

Make no mistake, the payoff for a Colorado road trip is substantial. As author Tom Robbins wrote, "You should never hesitate to trade your cow for a handful of magic beans." For those willing to take the road less traveled, the rewards are well worth the investment. The sheer diversity of landscapes, from the rugged mountains to the rolling hills, ensures that each drive is a unique experience.

The cost of gas, currently around $3.50 a gallon, is a small price to pay for the stunning vistas and inspiring architecture that await. For example, the 60 miles of the West Elk Scenic Byway, which costs around $10 in gas, offers a day's worth of exploration and sightseeing. Read that again; for less than the cost of a movie ticket, you can experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.

As the state celebrates its 150th anniversary, it's worth watching how Colorado's scenic byways continue to shape the identity of Colorado and its people. The community's attachment to these roads and landmarks is evident in the way they're maintained, promoted, and cherished.

In Delta County, for instance, the annual budget for road maintenance is around $1.5 million - a significant investment in the local infrastructure. This will cost taxpayers around $100 per household, a price many are willing to pay for the upkeep of these routes.

The short version: Colorado offers a unique experience that's hard to find elsewhere. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and quirky landmarks, the state has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to take the time to explore these hidden gems. they're worth the trip.

The Solid Muldoon, a fake petrified giant "buried" near Beulah, is a quirky example of the state's offbeat attractions. This marker, showcasing the region's sense of humor, is just one of the many surprises that await travelers on their journeys through Colorado. As you drive through the state's stunning landscapes, keep an eye out for these unique landmarks, they're a big part of what makes Colorado so special.

In the end, it's not just about the destination; it's about the journey, the people you meet, and the experiences you have along the way. Colorado's roads and attractions are more than just a pretty view; they're a way to connect with the state's history, culture, and natural beauty.