Great Drives - Colorado

Rainbow Curve

The road approaches the treeline and only small shrubs are seen at 10,830 feet.

Forest Canyon

A viewpoint provides a fine view of this canyon plus Hayden Gorge and Gorge Lakes. A short walk (10 minutes return) leads to this overlook where on sunny days you can hear the squeal and maybe see the little pikas which inhabit the area.

The Rock Cut

At over 12,100 feet, the road crosses the top of the Rockies through alpine tundra. Here, the growing season is less than ten weeks each year but regardless of the harsh environment, many flowering plants survive.

Tundra World Trail

Near the Rock Cut, this trail leads across the frozen ground. The return trip takes about 45 minutes.

Lava Cliffs

At a parking area, dark cliffs display volcanic rock, a reminder that the area was dominated by volcanoes between 26 and 28 million years ago. The cliffs were exposed by passing glaciers.

Alpine Visitor Center

At Fall River Pass, this is the site of a summer visitor center which includes a park information desk, restaurant and gift shop. A short trail leads to a panoramic view.

Milner Pass

Past Medicine Bow Curve the highway crosses the Continental Divide. The Crater Trail leads for one mile to a bighorn sheep viewing location.

Fairview Curve

Views of the Colorado River near its source and the Kawuneeche Valley.

<<Back Cont>>