Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey, everybody, welcome back. You know, it's it's almost spring
out there. It's getting nice. Uh, so that little ways
to go. Uh, we're talking Colorado. Everything there is to
know about Colorado, we're talking about it. We've been on
a little kick on first time visitors and people heading
out there some things they can do to make their
visit and planning for their trip, their their visit as
(00:23):
stress free as possible. And it's uh, you know, spring
in Colorado is great. It's obviously you know, it depends
on where you are in the mountains and that kind
of stuff. But you know, you can steal ski or
you could probably you can go hiking. Uh, there's so
many things to do in Colorado, such a great state,
so diverse. You know. One thing that that we haven't
(00:46):
talked about. We've talked about accommodations and travel to get
there and and some you know, some restaurants here and
there and some different cities. One of the things we
haven't really talked about is any of the scenic drives.
So I want to touch on that little bit today
and see where that takes us on a scenic drive.
So let's leave the cozy embrace of the Colorado mountain towns,
(01:10):
which I love. By the way, we now embark on
a journey through some of the state's most breathtaking scenic drives.
These aren't just routes from point A to point B.
They are experiences in themselves, offering unparalleled views, opportunities for expiration,
and a deeper connection with the raw beauty of the
(01:32):
Colorado landscape. The state's network of highways and byways carved
through towering peaks and sprawling valleys, provides an unforgettable canvas
for a road trip unlike any other. Perhaps the most
iconic of Colorado's scenic drives is Trail Ridge Road, a
(01:53):
high altitude marvel that traverses Rocky Mountain National Park. The
forty eight mile stretch of asphalt climbs to elevations exceeding
twelve thousand feet, offering panoramic vistas that seem to stretch
to infinity. The sheer scale of the mountains, the vibrant
hues of alpine tundra, and the crisp mountain air combined
(02:15):
to create an experience that is both all inspiring and humbling.
Driving Trail Ridge Road is not merely a journey. It's
an ascent into a realm of breathtaking beauty. As you ascend,
keep an eye out for wildlife elk, big horn sheep,
marmots or not uncommon sights. Pull over the designated viewpoints
(02:39):
to capture stunning photographs and take the time to soak
in the tranquility of the high alpine environment. Remember altitude
can affect driving conditions, to be sure to check weather
reports and road conditions before embarking on your journey. The
road itself is well maintained, but contains several sharp curves
(02:59):
and steam inclines, so be careful, driving cautiously and allowing
ample time for stops while insure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beyond the iconic views, Trail Ridge Road offers opportunities for
short hikes and exploration. Many well marked trails lead to
pristine alpine lakes, offering a chance to stretch your legs
(03:22):
and immerse yourself further in the park's pristine wilderness. The
numerous visitor centers along the route provide valuable information about
the park's ecology, history, and geology. The journey is a
powerful demonstration of the scale of nature's raw power and beauty,
a place where one feels incredibly small, yet connected to
(03:44):
something much larger. The ever changing landscape, from dense forests
to open meadows, keeps your senses constantly engaged. Each bend
in the road reveals a new panorama of a new
masterpiece painted by the hand of nature or of God.
The sense of accomplishment felt after conquering this high altitude
(04:07):
drive is matched only by the stunning views from its summit.
Whether you are an experienced driver or a casual traveler,
Trail Ridge Road should be on every Colorado traveler's list.
Another unforgettable Colorado drive is the Million Dollar Highway, a
section of US five point fifty that winds through the
(04:30):
San Juan Mountains. This twenty five mile stretch of road,
for its dramatic cliffs, hairpin turns, and breathtaking business, lives
up to his name. The engineering feat of constructing this
road through this rugged terrain is remarkable, and the views
of simply unparalleled. The sheer drop offs, the towering peaks,
(04:51):
and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape continue to
create a visual, visually stunning experience. The Million Dollar Highway
is more than just a road that's a testament of
human ingenuity and the captivating beauty of the Colorado Mountains.
This is not a drive to be taken lightly. The
(05:12):
road is narrow, winding and has significant drop offs, requiring
careful driving and a healthy respect for the environment. Take
frequent breaks to appreciate the view and be mindful of
other vehicles. While the Million Dollar Highway is undeniably spectacular,
consider venturing onto some of the less traveled byways that
(05:34):
branch off of the main route. These smaller roads often
lead to secluded valleys, hidden waterfalls, and charming mountain towns,
offering a glimpse into a less visited side of Colorado's beauty.
Remember these roads often unpaved and may be unsuitable for
vehicles with low ground clearance. Always check road conditions and
(05:55):
plan your route accordingly. This will often lead you to
discovering hidden gyms places, as it frequently that less frequented
by tourists, discovering giving you a more authentic experience of
Colorado's charm. In addition to Trail Ridge Road and the
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado boasts countless other scenic drives, each
(06:20):
with its own unique character and charm. The peak to
peak scenic Byway, for example, offers bread taking views of
the Continental Divide and numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
This route connects the charming mountain towns of Estes Park
and Nederland, weaving through landscape of majestic peaks, lush forests,
(06:46):
and crystal clear streams. It's a fantastic route for a
leisurely drive, with numerous pull offs to enjoy scenery and
numerous hiking trails for those inclined to explore further. The
drive is particularly stunned in the fall, when the aspen
trees blaze with brilliant gold and crimson hues. For those
seeking a more off the beaten path adventure, consider exploring
(07:10):
the many country road county roads of Enforest Service Roads
that crisscross the state. These routes often lead to secluded lakes,
hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints that are rarely seen by tourists. However,
these roads can be rugged and require a high clearance vehicle.
It's crucial to check road conditions and have appropriate maps
(07:33):
before venturing onto them. These adventurers often require being more
self reliant, ensuring you have the necessary supplies and knowledge
to handle the unexpected situations. These less travel roads, however,
often lead to truly remarkable discoveries, allowing you to experience
(07:54):
the more wild and secluded aspects of Colorado. Planning the
scenic dry in Colorado requires careful consideration of the time
of year. While summer offers the most predictable weather, many
roads are closed during the winter months due to snow
and ice. Spring and fall can offer stunning colors, but
(08:14):
be prepared for potential weather changes. Before embarking on any drive,
check road conditions and weather forecasts, and ensure your vehicle's
adequately equipped for the conditions. Always inform someone of your
itinerary and expected return time. No matter which route you choose,
remember to take your time, appreciate the journey, and savor
(08:36):
the stunning views. Colorado's scenic drives offer an unparalleled opportunity
connect with the state's natural beauty, creating memories that will
last a lifetime. The journey itself becomes an integral part
of the experience, the winding roads and stunning vistas creating
(08:57):
all immersive an adventure that excuse me and we'll leave
you a breathless and inspired. Remember to capture the moments
with photos be more, but more importantly, let the scenery
sink into your soul. Amen to that to create memories
that will last far beyond your visit. Colorado's scenic drives
(09:17):
are not just roads. There are gateways to unforgettable experiences,
offering a perspective on the state's beauty that is truly
unique and unforgettable. The combination of natural beauty, engineering, marbles,
and the opportunities for exploration ensure that each drive is
a journey into the heart of the Colorado experience. So
(09:39):
pack your bags, choose your route, and prepare to be
amazed by the unparalleled beauty of Colorado's majestic mountains. The
memories will make a lifetime, and it really will. So
we're going to talk about Denver next time. So I
do have a podcast already on Denver, but the bile
High City. So who wants to at High next time?
(10:01):
Of course, you know we're talking Denver, So that's gonna
be fun. I like Denver. There's so much to like
about all of Colorado. So if you happen to live
in Colorado, God bless you because you're lucky. If you're
going to visit, God bless you because you're gonna go visit,
and if anything I can do to help, please let
me know, because that's what we do here. So anyway,
(10:24):
y'all have an absolutely remarkable day and I will see
you next time.
Hey, everybody, welcome back. You know, it's it's almost spring
out there. It's getting nice. Uh, so that little ways
to go. Uh, we're talking Colorado. Everything there is to
know about Colorado, we're talking about it. We've been on
a little kick on first time visitors and people heading
out there some things they can do to make their
visit and planning for their trip, their their visit as
(00:23):
stress free as possible. And it's uh, you know, spring
in Colorado is great. It's obviously you know, it depends
on where you are in the mountains and that kind
of stuff. But you know, you can steal ski or
you could probably you can go hiking. Uh, there's so
many things to do in Colorado, such a great state,
so diverse. You know. One thing that that we haven't
(00:46):
talked about. We've talked about accommodations and travel to get
there and and some you know, some restaurants here and
there and some different cities. One of the things we
haven't really talked about is any of the scenic drives.
So I want to touch on that little bit today
and see where that takes us on a scenic drive.
So let's leave the cozy embrace of the Colorado mountain towns,
(01:10):
which I love. By the way, we now embark on
a journey through some of the state's most breathtaking scenic drives.
These aren't just routes from point A to point B.
They are experiences in themselves, offering unparalleled views, opportunities for expiration,
and a deeper connection with the raw beauty of the
(01:32):
Colorado landscape. The state's network of highways and byways carved
through towering peaks and sprawling valleys, provides an unforgettable canvas
for a road trip unlike any other. Perhaps the most
iconic of Colorado's scenic drives is Trail Ridge Road, a
(01:53):
high altitude marvel that traverses Rocky Mountain National Park. The
forty eight mile stretch of asphalt climbs to elevations exceeding
twelve thousand feet, offering panoramic vistas that seem to stretch
to infinity. The sheer scale of the mountains, the vibrant
hues of alpine tundra, and the crisp mountain air combined
(02:15):
to create an experience that is both all inspiring and humbling.
Driving Trail Ridge Road is not merely a journey. It's
an ascent into a realm of breathtaking beauty. As you ascend,
keep an eye out for wildlife elk, big horn sheep,
marmots or not uncommon sights. Pull over the designated viewpoints
(02:39):
to capture stunning photographs and take the time to soak
in the tranquility of the high alpine environment. Remember altitude
can affect driving conditions, to be sure to check weather
reports and road conditions before embarking on your journey. The
road itself is well maintained, but contains several sharp curves
(02:59):
and steam inclines, so be careful, driving cautiously and allowing
ample time for stops while insure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beyond the iconic views, Trail Ridge Road offers opportunities for
short hikes and exploration. Many well marked trails lead to
pristine alpine lakes, offering a chance to stretch your legs
(03:22):
and immerse yourself further in the park's pristine wilderness. The
numerous visitor centers along the route provide valuable information about
the park's ecology, history, and geology. The journey is a
powerful demonstration of the scale of nature's raw power and beauty,
a place where one feels incredibly small, yet connected to
(03:44):
something much larger. The ever changing landscape, from dense forests
to open meadows, keeps your senses constantly engaged. Each bend
in the road reveals a new panorama of a new
masterpiece painted by the hand of nature or of God.
The sense of accomplishment felt after conquering this high altitude
(04:07):
drive is matched only by the stunning views from its summit.
Whether you are an experienced driver or a casual traveler,
Trail Ridge Road should be on every Colorado traveler's list.
Another unforgettable Colorado drive is the Million Dollar Highway, a
section of US five point fifty that winds through the
(04:30):
San Juan Mountains. This twenty five mile stretch of road,
for its dramatic cliffs, hairpin turns, and breathtaking business, lives
up to his name. The engineering feat of constructing this
road through this rugged terrain is remarkable, and the views
of simply unparalleled. The sheer drop offs, the towering peaks,
(04:51):
and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape continue to
create a visual, visually stunning experience. The Million Dollar Highway
is more than just a road that's a testament of
human ingenuity and the captivating beauty of the Colorado Mountains.
This is not a drive to be taken lightly. The
(05:12):
road is narrow, winding and has significant drop offs, requiring
careful driving and a healthy respect for the environment. Take
frequent breaks to appreciate the view and be mindful of
other vehicles. While the Million Dollar Highway is undeniably spectacular,
consider venturing onto some of the less traveled byways that
(05:34):
branch off of the main route. These smaller roads often
lead to secluded valleys, hidden waterfalls, and charming mountain towns,
offering a glimpse into a less visited side of Colorado's beauty.
Remember these roads often unpaved and may be unsuitable for
vehicles with low ground clearance. Always check road conditions and
(05:55):
plan your route accordingly. This will often lead you to
discovering hidden gyms places, as it frequently that less frequented
by tourists, discovering giving you a more authentic experience of
Colorado's charm. In addition to Trail Ridge Road and the
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado boasts countless other scenic drives, each
(06:20):
with its own unique character and charm. The peak to
peak scenic Byway, for example, offers bread taking views of
the Continental Divide and numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
This route connects the charming mountain towns of Estes Park
and Nederland, weaving through landscape of majestic peaks, lush forests,
(06:46):
and crystal clear streams. It's a fantastic route for a
leisurely drive, with numerous pull offs to enjoy scenery and
numerous hiking trails for those inclined to explore further. The
drive is particularly stunned in the fall, when the aspen
trees blaze with brilliant gold and crimson hues. For those
seeking a more off the beaten path adventure, consider exploring
(07:10):
the many country road county roads of Enforest Service Roads
that crisscross the state. These routes often lead to secluded lakes,
hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints that are rarely seen by tourists. However,
these roads can be rugged and require a high clearance vehicle.
It's crucial to check road conditions and have appropriate maps
(07:33):
before venturing onto them. These adventurers often require being more
self reliant, ensuring you have the necessary supplies and knowledge
to handle the unexpected situations. These less travel roads, however,
often lead to truly remarkable discoveries, allowing you to experience
(07:54):
the more wild and secluded aspects of Colorado. Planning the
scenic dry in Colorado requires careful consideration of the time
of year. While summer offers the most predictable weather, many
roads are closed during the winter months due to snow
and ice. Spring and fall can offer stunning colors, but
(08:14):
be prepared for potential weather changes. Before embarking on any drive,
check road conditions and weather forecasts, and ensure your vehicle's
adequately equipped for the conditions. Always inform someone of your
itinerary and expected return time. No matter which route you choose,
remember to take your time, appreciate the journey, and savor
(08:36):
the stunning views. Colorado's scenic drives offer an unparalleled opportunity
connect with the state's natural beauty, creating memories that will
last a lifetime. The journey itself becomes an integral part
of the experience, the winding roads and stunning vistas creating
(08:57):
all immersive an adventure that excuse me and we'll leave
you a breathless and inspired. Remember to capture the moments
with photos be more, but more importantly, let the scenery
sink into your soul. Amen to that to create memories
that will last far beyond your visit. Colorado's scenic drives
(09:17):
are not just roads. There are gateways to unforgettable experiences,
offering a perspective on the state's beauty that is truly
unique and unforgettable. The combination of natural beauty, engineering, marbles,
and the opportunities for exploration ensure that each drive is
a journey into the heart of the Colorado experience. So
(09:39):
pack your bags, choose your route, and prepare to be
amazed by the unparalleled beauty of Colorado's majestic mountains. The
memories will make a lifetime, and it really will. So
we're going to talk about Denver next time. So I
do have a podcast already on Denver, but the bile
High City. So who wants to at High next time?
(10:01):
Of course, you know we're talking Denver, So that's gonna
be fun. I like Denver. There's so much to like
about all of Colorado. So if you happen to live
in Colorado, God bless you because you're lucky. If you're
going to visit, God bless you because you're gonna go visit,
and if anything I can do to help, please let
me know, because that's what we do here. So anyway,
(10:24):
y'all have an absolutely remarkable day and I will see
you next time.
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