Is there any state more beautiful than Colorado? Considering the Rocky Mountains, breathtaking alpine meadows, forested trails, farmland, and sweeping plains for as far as the eye can see, we’re inclined to say there isn’t. And while we might be biased, we also think the proof lies in Colorado’s scenic roads. These winding routes offer visitors and residents the chance to soak in the natural beauty of the state’s varied landscapes. So the next time you’re craving fresh air, sunshine, and scenery for miles, roll down the windows and take a spin on any of the following scenic drives in Colorado:

1. Independence Pass
Independence Pass, Colorado 81210, USA
krblokhin / iStock via Getty Images Plus
The 27-mile stretch of Hwy. 82, which connects Twin Lakes to Aspen, was named "one of the most beautiful drives in the country" by Forbes Magazine. Plus, considering you'll be driving at an elevation of 12,095 feet, the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.

Take a drive on Independence Pass, one of the most scenic roads in Colorado, in this video from Ty Root:
2. Last Dollar Road
Last Dollar Road, Last Dollar Rd, Telluride, CO, USA
Larry Lamsa / Flickr
This magnificent dirt road near Telluride guarantees some of the best views in the state, especially if you factor in fall foliage. To get there, head west on Highway 62 from Ridgeway for about 12 miles and hang a left at the sign. As you can imagine, this route can be bumpy and difficult to drive in certain conditions. Those who are up for the challenge will be rewarded with rustic and magnificent scenery at every turn on one of the best dirt roads in Colorado.
3. Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road, Trail Ridge Rd, Grand Lake, CO, USA
Kent Kanouse / Flickr
This awe-inspiring "highway to the sky" connects Estes Park to Grand Lake. This stretch of U.S. 34 is a nationally designated All-American Road. Tip: Make sure you check on road closures before making the trip.
4. Shrine Pass
Shrine Pass, Colorado 81649, USA
Kimon Berlin/Flickr
The windy dirt road is a scenic mountain pass that begins at Vail (travel east from Vail on I-70 to Exit 190 for Vail Pass; turn right, heading west, onto the Shrine Pass dirt road) and ends at Redcliff. This road-less-traveled is an alternative to I-70.
5. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
Peak To Peak Scenic Byway, 72 CO-7, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
krblokhin / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Enjoy babbling brooks, mine tailings, and abundant wildlife on this three-hour drive from Estes Park to I-70. The route is 55 miles in length and promises beautiful scenery at any time of the year.

Check out the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway with views of the Rocky Mountains in this video from Kill'N'Fuel:

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6. Collegiate Peaks
Collegiate Peaks, Colorado 81211, USA
Bryce Bradford / Flickr
Collegiate Peaks refers to a designated portion of the Sawatch Range in central Colorado. Along this meandering mountain drive, you'll find that the picturesque small towns of Salida, Buena Vista, and Nathrop have never looked better.
7. Guanella Pass
Guanella Pass, Colorado 80435, USA
Sparty1711 / iStock via Getty Images Plus
This colorful pass is accessible via U.S. Highway 285 or off Interstate 70 at the Georgetown exit and it is one of the most beautiful country roads in Colorado.
8. Million Dollar Highway
Million Dollar Highway, Million Dollar Hwy, Colorado, USA
krblokhin / iStock via Getty Images Plus
The Million Dollar Highway is one of the most famous scenic roads in Colorado. Also known as Route 550, this route stretches from Silverton to Durango with epic views of the San Juan Mountains in the distance.
9. San Juan Skyway
San Juan Skyway Scenic and Historic Byway, Ridgway, CO 81432, USA
Kent Kanouse/Flickr
If you plan to take the Million Dollar Road (and have the time), why don't you take the time to enjoy this 236-mile feast for the senses? The San Juan Skyway is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado.
10. Alpine Loop
Alpine Loop Scenic Byway Lake City Entrance, Lake City, CO 81235, USA
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
Last, but certainly not least, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the busy highway for this tranquil drive along the San Juan Mountains. Alpine Loop covers about 60 miles and connects the towns of Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton.

Learn more about the Alpine Loop in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado in this video from Wanderlost Overland. Check out those scenic and rugged Colorado dirt roads:

What are your favorite scenic drives in Colorado? Are there any that you would add to this list? Be sure to join in on the conversation by leaving a comment!

Looking for more gorgeous Colorado scenery? Check out these 11 hidden gems in Colorado you have to see before you die. One of the best ways to do so is by renting an RV and hitting the road!

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More to Explore

Scenic Roads in Colorado

Beth C. | June 15, 2020

What are the best road trips through Colorado?

Some of the best road trips through Colorado include:

 

Colorado is a state that's tailor-made for road trips. In addition to the scenic roads in Colorado we've outlined above, there are many others that you might be interested in checking out. Some of these include the Poudre River Canyon near Fort Collins, the Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway near the border of Utah, the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway, and the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway. If you're looking for themed road trips, you might want to check out this road trip to some of Colorado's most spectacular waterfalls.

What places in Colorado should I see before I die?

Some of the places in Colorado you should see before you die include:

 

Putting together a Colorado bucket list of all the places you want to see before you die can be a rewarding activity, as it provides the perfect excuse to experience some of the state's most epic attractions. Included on this list might be Lizard Lake, Pawnee Buttes, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Red Rocks Amphitheater, Dillon Ice Castles, the Sand Dunes, and Mesa Verde National Park. Of course, this list only scratches the surface of all the unique things to do in Colorado.

What are the best outdoor activities in Colorado?

Some of the best outdoor activities in Colorado include:

 

The outdoor activity that you choose to enjoy in Colorado might largely depend on the season you visit. Exploring Colorado in the winter, for example, often means buying a ski pass and enjoying Colorado's world-famous slopes such as Aspen and Vail. If you visit during the more temperate months, you may want to take advantage of the abundance of hiking trails. With over 17,000 unique trails to explore in the state, you won't find any shortage of scenery. Other activities include mountain climbing, biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and more.

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