One Of The Oldest Roads In Colorado Just Opened For The Season And Will Enchant You Beyond Words
By Annie
|
Published August 03, 2019
When it comes to unforgettably beautiful drives, there is no better place to be than Colorado! Whether you crave the sights of Rocky Mountain majesties, the colorful plains, dazzling cityscapes, or even rugged slopes, you are guaranteed to find a landscape to love here in the Centennial State! If you are interested in driving a road that is as historic as it is gorgeous, however, there is only one that stands out as being the best, which is this old Colorado road that just opened for the season:
Tucked away inside of Rocky Mountain National Park is Old Fall River Road, also known simply as the Old Road.
Opened in 1920, Old Fall River was the first automobile road to pass through the iconic RMNP and now connects with Trail Ridge Road via the Alpine Visitor Center.
Construction on the road initially began in 1913, but was delayed due to World War I.
Spanning nearly 11 miles, the road is one-way and uphill only and reaches a peak elevation of 11,796 feet above sea level!
Please note: If you suffer from elevation sickness, this may not be the best drive for you.
Why drive 15-miles-per-hour on an unpaved road? It is because Old Fall River boasts some of the most spectacular views of native wildlife...
...wildflowers...
...and untouched Colorado wilderness at its finest.
Old Fall River Road is open during the summer (typically July 1st through the first snowstorm) and can be accessed by foot or bicycle from April 1st through November 30th.
Due to the late snowfall in 2019, Old Fall River did not open until mid-July, so make sure to check with the
National Park Service before you go.
Have you had a chance to drive this historic road? Do you have any tips for newbies? Let us know in the comments! For even more fun drives around the Centennial State, take the 19-Mile Scenic Drive In Colorado You Will Want To Take s Soon As You Can .
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