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Colorado Attractions

There Is A Reason This Scenic Colorado Drive Is Nicknamed The "Oh My Gawd" Road

By Annie | Published September 19, 2022

There are more incredible drives in Colorado than we can count but have you ever taken a drive that made you say, “Oh My Gawd!”? If so, we can almost bet we know which road that was, as this scenic Colorado drive has earned that nickname (and rightfully so!):

Welcome to the Virginia Canyon Scenic Drive - also known as the "Oh My Gawd" road.

Located near Central City, the Virginia Canyon Scenic Drive is chock-full of what you've come to expect from Clear Creek County, beginning with stunning views that you can only find off the beaten path.

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Spanning a mere 7.6 miles, Virginia Canyon also drives through numerous abandoned mines, showcasing the beauty of the area and its rich history.

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How did Virginia Canyon get to have such a memorable nickname? The aforementioned views and the narrow, curving lanes will have you successively shouting "Oh My Gawd!" over and over.

Please note: The Virginia Canyon route is open year-round, but due to its lack of tread and sharp turns, it is not recommended for 2-wheel drive vehicles if the road is wet.

This scenic road can be accessed by taking I-70 to Exit 241 (Idaho Springs), following Colorado Boulevard past the Visitor Center, turning right onto Virginia Canyon Road, and veering to the right when the paved road turns to dirt.

To learn more about this one-of-a-kind Colorado drive and other things to see and do in the area, please visit the Clear Creek County Tourism Bureau's website.

For more to see and do while you’re in the area, check out The Historic Small Town Near Denver That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once.

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Featured Addresses

Virginia Canyon Road, Virginia Canyon Rd, Idaho Springs, CO, USA