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March 19, 2025 10 mins
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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

(00:47):
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 let that a 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

(01:33):
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

(01:54):
high altitude marvel that traverses Rocky Mountain National Park. The
forty eight mile 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 to create

(02:16):
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

(03:00):
steep 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

(04:08):
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 feet of constructing this
road through this rugged terrain is remarkable, and the views
of simply unparalleled. The sheer drop offs, the towering peaks,

(04:52):
and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape continue to
create a visual, visually stunning experience. Million Dollar Highway is
more than just a road, It's a testament of human ingenuity.
And the captivating beauty of the Colorado Mountains. This is
not a drive to be taken lightly. The road is narrow,

(05:13):
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 branch off of

(05:35):
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 plan your route accordingly.

(05:57):
This will often lead you to discovering hidden gyms, places
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

(06:18):
other scenic drives, each 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

(06:44):
majestic peaks, lush forests, 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 stunning in the fall,
when the aspen trees blaze with brilliant gold and crimson hues.

(07:06):
For those seeking a more off the beaten path adventure,
consider exploring 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

(07:28):
and require a high clearance vehicle. It's crucial to check
road conditions and have appropriate maps 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,

(07:53):
allowing you to experience the more wild and secluded aspects
of Colorado. Planning a scene drive and 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

(08:13):
offer stunning colors, but 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,

(08:34):
appreciate the journey, and savor the stunning views. Colorado's scenic
drives offer an unparalleled opportunity to 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

(08:54):
winding roads and stunning vistas creating 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

(09:15):
your visit. Colorado's scenic drives 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

(09:37):
of the Colorado experience. So 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. Who wants to get high?

(10:00):
Next time? 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,

(10:21):
please let me know, because that's what we do here.
So anyway, y'all have an absolutely remarkable day and I
will see you next time. God bless
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