Top 10 Scenic Drives In Colorado, USA

1. Dinosaur Diamond Scenic and Historic Byway

The Dinosaur Diamond Scenic and Historic Byway runs between Colorado and Utah, and it spans about 512 miles (824 km). The road earned its unique name from its diamond shape and its close distance to Dinosaur National Monument, which is where visitors have the opportunity to see real-life fossils in the mountain. Driving along the Dinosaur Diamond Scenic and Historic Byway can take you to various prehistoric sites and parks. Aside from the dinosaurs, this road is stunning all year long! Surrounded by trees and nature, you will find peace and serenity like nothing else. If you love dinosaurs and nature, be sure to take a drive on the Dinosaur Diamond Scenic and Historic Byway.

2. Trail Ridge Road

The Trail Ridge Road takes explorers on a drive through the vast terrain of the Rocky Mountains. A distinguishing feature about the road is its unique steep incline. Many tourists compare it to driving through the sky. You can see many remarkable views on the Trail Ridge Road, and part of the drive will even be above the treeline. Tourists also have the opportunity to see the distinct wildlife of the tundra-like pikas, marmots, and bighorn sheep. If you want to travel the whole road, set aside half of the day so you can enjoy the wonders of Colorado. The Trail Ridge Road is definitely a road you should not pass up if you want to enjoy the beauty of nature.

3. Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway

Drive along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway and see the famous prairies of the United States. You can see so far in one direction, that the road seems to almost touch the sky. Continuing on the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway will take you to the Continental Divide, which is a mountainous region that the Rocky Mountains are a part of. Various wild animals can be seen along the byway, such as elk, antelope, and deer. Several small towns are riddled across the prairies of this route. Along the ride, you should expect to encounter breathtaking views from the mountain peaks, rivers, forests, and hot springs. Next time you’re out west, take the chance to drive alone the iconic Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway.

4. Mount Evans Road

Mount Evans Road is the highest road in all of North America! At 14,130 feet (435 meters), traveling along this road is part of many people’s bucket lists. A trip to Mount Evans will truly leave you awestruck and amazed. This unique road winds and twists through five different climate zones until it reaches the peak of Mount Evans, so you will have the opportunity to see a wide range of wildlife and landscapes. If you plan on driving the length of Mount Evans Road, be sure to plan for an entire day trip to allow for various recreational activities along the way. Hiking and water activities at Echo Lake are popular pastimes among guests. If you love beautiful views, consider taking the drive all the way up to the peak of Mount Evans.

5. Flat Tops Scenic Byway

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Flat Tops Scenic Byway runs 82 miles (131 km) through the beautiful landscapes of Colorado. The drive is largely remote, with vast wilderness on either side, but mines and logging can be seen throughout. Camping is popular around this area because you get to enjoy the peace and serenity of the beautiful nature around you. Recreational activities include anything from skiing to fishing to hunting. If you love nature, take a drive down Flat Tops Scenic Byway and stop for any recreational activities you desire.

6. Pikes Peak Highway

Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile (30 km) winding road in Colorado that takes about 2 to 3 hours to do a round-trip. This is a beautifully peaceful road where you can surround yourself with wildlife and stunning views of mountains and lakes. Be prepared to be gone for a few hours, including the full drive and any recreational activities you may choose to do because no gas stations are along this highway. Feel free to stop your drive for a variety of outdoor activities, like photography, fishing, hiking, and boating.

7. Alpine Loop

The Alpine Loop winds through the tundra surrounded by the mountains of Colorado. Most of the year, the drive is covered in beautiful, glistening white snow. But during a few months in summer, tourists have the opportunity to drive the Alpine Loop with no snow. Instead, wildflowers and beautiful greenery are a commodity. The whole loop is 65 miles (104 km) long over four-wheel-drive terrain. The city of Ouray, where the Alpine Loop is located, is known by locals as the Switzerland of America. The Alpine Loop is truly an off-road experience that climbs through the mountains, and it is perfect for explorers. If you’re looking for a beautiful off-road drive through stunning scenery, take a ride on the Alpine Loop.

8. The Million Dollar Highway

The Million Dollar Highway lives up to its name. This highway is regarded as one of the most beautiful roads in America. Originally built in the 1880s, the road winds through the mountains of Colorado and it has lots of drop off areas with breathtaking views of the countryside below. Common wildlife that can be seen on the drive include elk, mountain goats, black bears, and deer. Along the road, you have the opportunity to stop for various recreational activities like visiting hot springs, touring a gold mine, taking a peek at a ghost town, or hiking to the Box Canyon Waterfall. Although it’s a popular drive, The Million Dollar Highway is a bit dangerous with steep hills and sections that don’t have guard rails. So, if you love heights and thrilling drives, The Million Dollar Highway is the perfect stretch of road for you.

9. Cache la Poudre North Park Drive

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Cache la Poudre North Park Drive is a famous scenic drive in Colorado. The name is in French, which directly translates to ‘the powder’s hiding place.’ Along this road, big horned sheep are commonly seen and are always an exciting sight for tourists and travelers. Cache la Poudre North Park Drive runs beside Cache la Poudre River, and it offers many beautiful spots to get out of the car and admire the rushing water. Along the road, you will drive through alpine meadows and mountainous terrain. A peaceful trip with beautiful views, Cache la Poudre North Park Drive is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature or for a relaxing day.

10. Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway

The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway is located high up on the Rocky Mountains, and it goes through three different national forests: Pike National Forest, San Isabel National Forest and White River National Forest. The whole drive takes about two hours to complete. Besides enjoying the beautiful scenery, biking, horseback riding, skiing, four-wheel driving, snowmobiling, hunting, and camping are other popular activities that are available to outdoor enthusiasts. Next time you’re in Colorado, make sure you explore the lengths of the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway.

Colorado's scenic drives

Many people enjoy casual and peaceful drives through stunning landscapes. For nature enthusiasts, these drives can be a way to relax and be closer to wildlife. For anyone interested in outdoor sports, many are available along most of the drives. The next time, you just want to go for a cruise, consider one, or all, of these scenic roads. So, which scenic drive will you take in Colorado?