Rockies roads: the most thrilling drives in Colorado

11.09.2023 - 18:21 / lonelyplanet.com

Colorado is justly famous for its breathtaking landscapes: mountain vistas, sun-drenched plains, red rock mesas and high deserts. All of which look especially fetching through a windshield.

In between the extraordinary vistas, tempting stops abound: unexpected historic sites, charming towns plus outdoor recreation opportunities of every sort. Miles and miles of well-maintained Scenic and Historic Byways wind through the state’s diverse attractions, providing easy access to it all. So, grab your keys and power up: these are the best road trips in Colorado.

Further reading: When to visit Colorado

Twin Lakes–Aspen; 27 miles/44km

The ribbon of road between the historic community of Twin Lakes and the swank town of Aspen forms the backbone of one of Colorado’s most epic drives. Along this part of the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, the views are cinematic and spectacular. Swatches of snow are visible along the ridges just below the knife edge of peaks, and tundra blooms at the top of the pass, where at 12,095ft you’ll be on the edge of the Continental Divide. Expect several of your own IMAX moments. 

Though the pass is closed in the winter, the rest of the year the drive is short and sweet – and we’d recommend you take your time. Check out Twin Lakes Reservoir, an angler’s and paddleboarder’s dream; its shores are dotted with historic ruins, including Interlaken, once Colorado’s largest resort, built in 1879. Or head for a hike on Mt Elbert, one of the “easier” fourteeners in the state (start your hike early!). And don’t miss Independence near Aspen – a ghost town dotted with weathered wood cabins, this was the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley, and today offers a window back in time.  

Minturn–Aspen; 115 miles/185km

If you liked the drive over Independence Pass, extend it to take in this Scenic Byway. One of the highest in the US, this road seldom drops below 9000ft as it really does follow the mountaintops. You’ll go through three spectacular mountain passes, cross the Continental Divide, take in two Colorado giants (Mt Elbert and Mt Massive) and roll through historic towns in central Colorado. And if outdoors recreation is your thing, the route passes through three National Forests offering countless opportunities to hike, climb, fish and ski. Not bad for a single day’s drive.  

Along the way, tiny Minturn is big on small-town charm; in the summer, pick up road provisions at the bustling farmers market (the kids can pet goats while you shop). In Leadville, learn all about Colorado’s rags-to-riches mining beginnings in its historic district, which includes the National Mining Hall of Fame; Twin Lakes, meanwhile, offers opportunities to wander through a historic mining camp. At end of the tour