US 550 from the north is not for the faint of heart. I was driving a 45' motor coach (charter bus)last Spring. Fires near Wolf Creek Pass and elsewhere forced the detour. Absolutely the most breathtaking mountain scenery you can imagine. But--the brakes, engine retarder, my arms and nerves all had a severe workout negotiating the roller-coaster hills, dips and switchbacks. Marvelous motorcycle route--not the best for a large vehicle. Had to replace a tag tire in Durango--scrubbed that puppy clear to the cord because I didn't consistently "lift" the tag when going around the numerous switchbacks. Coincidentally, heading to RMNP in a coach tomorrow--itinerary has us driving the length of Trail Ridge Drive which opens for the season (I believe) only today. Staying in Estes Park--HS band performance in Estes, play in RMNP and float trip on the Arkansas River out of Buena Vista. Looking forward to a fun week!
