Family TravelRocky Mountain StatesColorado › Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road

Travel the highest continuous paved road in the nation for stunning vistas and wildlife spotting.

Advertisement
Trail Ridge Road—Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
© 2009 Shutterstock/Kaleb Timberlake
The sweeping views from the nation's highest mountain road show the Colorado Rockies in all their splendor. Completed in 1938, this spectacular section of U.S. Hwy. 34 crosses the Continental Divide.
Image

Trail Ridge Road - Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Estes Park

With more than eight miles lying above 11,000 feet and a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet, this scenic route, which crosses the U.S. Continental Divide, is the highest continuous paved road in the nation.

Cutting through Rocky Mountain National Park, it provides a spectacular view of majestic mountain peaks, deep gorges, and rocky cliffs. In spring and summer fields of alpine wildflowers appear on the tundra above the timber line; vibrant fall colors contrast with pine trees bordering rocky outcroppings and dark-shadowed lakes. Wildlife abounds throughout the year. There is always a chance sighting of moose or bighorn sheep, or spotting smaller denizens of the forests in river valleys near the highway. Clean air and quiet stillness are bonus attractions, along with the park's excellent recreational facilities.

Open Memorial Day– mid-Oct.; park open year-round. Admission charged.

www.nps.gov/romo
(970) 586-1206

From Off the Beaten Path
 
Must Read Should Everyone Read This? Yes! I vote for this story
Share Your Comments
 
Remaining Character Count:
 
See All Comments

Advertisement
Buy the Book

Off the Beaten Path

A travel guide to more than 1000 scenic and interesting places still uncrowded and inviting.