SW Colorado travel question -
We are looking at a September trip to visit primarily three National Parks and the four corners. We have yet to add Gunnison National Park, Mesa Verde and Great Sand Dunes to our life lists. Map ...
Forum Discussion
In general your route is good. You don't mention your previous experience driving up/down mountains, so you should be aware of Red Mountain Pass on 550 between Ouray & Silverton. Its steep, twisting, deep drop offs, and no guard rail. Many folks are scared by it and choose to leave 550 at Ridgway on 62 to 145 to Cortez & then 160. That bypass would work good if you start at 4 corners and then make your way east.
Personally, I take my motorhome & toad up & down Red Mtn Pass at least twice a year with no issue, but I've been driving the Colorado Mtns for 30 yrs.
Coming east on 160 you'll also go up & down Wolf Creek Pass between Pagosa Springs and my home in South Fork. Its much tamer than Red Mtn Pass, but still a long steep climb & descent.
Mid Sept is usually prime season for our fall leaf colors.
PS: Since you're driving right near it, you should include the Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP, a seldom visited but very impressive canyon.
Personally, I take my motorhome & toad up & down Red Mtn Pass at least twice a year with no issue, but I've been driving the Colorado Mtns for 30 yrs.
Coming east on 160 you'll also go up & down Wolf Creek Pass between Pagosa Springs and my home in South Fork. Its much tamer than Red Mtn Pass, but still a long steep climb & descent.
Mid Sept is usually prime season for our fall leaf colors.
PS: Since you're driving right near it, you should include the Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP, a seldom visited but very impressive canyon.
