Durango to Denver

Thanks, I just checked and they are only a couple hours out, going I-25. Long night and day for them.

They could also take 160 to Monte Vista and pick up US285 and take it to Denver. It is a good road and the passes shown on the map are easy climbs/descents. I prefer it to I25 as it is a bit shorter and less traffic even though it is only two lanes. I25 thru Colorado Springs is always a hassle for me and the one place in 50 years that I had an accident.

Good decision. 550 is NOT a place to learn.

Wolf Creek is a lot easier than anything North of Durango.

There is nothing particularly difficult about 160 and once you are on the Interstate it is just like any other Interstate.

Thanks for the reply. I just got off the phone with them and they are going 160 to I-25. Their gps gave them shortest route and someone actually told them to go north to I-70. Neither one looked good to me. The climb shouldn't be a problem right now and I think they will feel better being on the Interstate.

Unless he is VERY comforable with and familiar with towing in steep mountainous terrain with narrow highways, no shoulders, and no guard rails, do not go north from Durango. US 550 between Durango and Ouray is not for the faint of heart.

Best go east on US 160. He will still have to climb Wolf Creek Pass which is also steep climb and high pass, but a much better highway. Two lanes all the way up, places to pull off if needed to cool down, guard rails, and only one real curve of any consequence. Simplest route is US 160 all the way to I-25 at Walsenburg and then north. Other options are north from Alamosa, but more changing of highways.

If he has an aversion to steep climbs, there are other longer options.