Western Colorado Road Trip…
The trip from Grand Junction to Durango in Colorado is one of the most beautiful in the country. This is no straight shot down the Interstate but a winding trip through some of the Rocky Mountains most beautiful scenery. Our trip started by heading south on US 50 Highway from Grand Junction. A fantastic side trip is to stop off at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The Black Canyon and it’s famous “Painted Wall” is one of the deepest and steepest canyons in North America.
This is where our route changed from our initial plan. Instead of taking the more direct route on US 550 that includes the “Million Dollar Highway” from Ouray to Silverton, we took a right at Ridgeway on CO 62 and headed towards Telluride. As you drive down CO 62 you are surrounded by the Uncompahgre and the San Juan National Forests not to mention a number of 14ers including Mt Wilson (14,252 ft), Mt Sneffels (14,157 ft) and Uncompahgre Peak (14,308 ft).
In the small town of Placerville, we headed towards Telluride on Colorado Highway 145. The road snakes through mountains that offer breathtaking panoramas at every turn. Trout Lake lies next to CO 145 and is a wonderful sight with Ulysses S Grant Peak and Beattie Peak just a few of the mountains providing a backdrop.
Large groups of Colorado's aspen trees are mixed with the evergreens everywhere you look. The Aspens are a captivating sight throughout the year. In spring, their vibrant green leaves create a refreshing canopy against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. In summer the aspens transform into silver groves, their leaves quivering in the slightest breeze. These stands offer welcome shade from the warm mountain air. While autumn undoubtedly steals the show with its golden hues, the beauty of aspen trees in spring and summer is often overlooked, making them a hidden gem for those who venture into the Colorado wilderness during these seasons.
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a mountain lover's paradise. This charming town boasts a blend of old-world charm and modern adventure. Surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, Telluride offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding. Its historic downtown district is filled with unique shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping activities or simply want to unwind in a breathtaking setting, Telluride promises an unforgettable experience.
The final leg of the journey was a breeze following CO 184 and CO 160, with wide open spaces and distant mountain ranges framing the horizon. Durango, with its historic downtown and iconic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, marked the perfect end to this unforgettable trip. Each twist and turn of this scenic route unveils a new facet of western Colorado's magic.