"We love Colorado's rugged landscapes, some of the most breathtaking views, and scary roads. While Colorado does come with rough terrain, there, of course, is still a way to traverse most of the state. Still, drastic changes in elevations can cause unpredictable and fierce weather conditions that drivers must battle. Nothing will have you white-knuckling your steering wheel more than going down a steep grade during treacherous weather."
Driving across Colorado requires a trip up and over the massive Rocky Mountains. Drivers can go from 5,000 feet elevation just west of Denver to over 11,000 feet at the Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels. You’ll need a good set of brakes and an engine and transmission in good condition.
Black Bear Pass sits just outside of the popular town of Telluride. This road has a stretch of narrow and exposed switchbacks that is downhill-only and one-way. Don’t even dare try this road if you have never experienced rock crawling.
Highway 160 stretches across southern Colorado. If you travel this route, you’ll go through cities like Pagosa Springs, Durango, and many other quaint towns. You’ll love the views from over 10,000 feet, but your stomach may not appreciate the winding of the road or the very tight turns along the way.
Not too far from Pueblo and Colorado Springs is Monarch Mountain. This is a popular small mountain for skiing, but your adventures will start long before you hit the slopes. Getting to Monarch Mountain will require navigating the 11,312-foot Monarch Pass.
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is only open during the summer and is a 28-mile paved road that takes travelers to the top of the 14,000+ foot Mount Evans. While the road is relatively safe and carved into the mountainside, looking out over the landscape can make your stomach churn.
Join 10,000+ other adventurers to receive educating, entertaining, and inspiring articles about RV Travel Destinations, RV Gear, and Off-Grid Living to jump-start your adventures today!